How to Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera: Engagement Photo Tips for Couples

Feeling Nervous About Your Engagement Photos? You’re Not Alone—Here’s How to Relax and Have Fun!

First of all—congrats, you’re engaged! 🎉 That’s a huge deal, and you deserve to soak up every joyful, giddy, love-filled moment. But if the idea of standing in front of a camera for engagement photos has you feeling more awkward than excited… you’re not alone. A lot of couples feel a little nervous going into their engagement session (spoiler: it’s totally normal!).

The good news? It doesn’t have to feel stiff or uncomfortable. Engagement sessions are all about celebrating you two—your love, your quirks, your story. And with a little preparation and the right photographer (hi, it’s me 👋), it can even be fun. Yep, I said it—fun.

Here are a few laid-back tips to help you feel confident, relaxed, and totally yourselves during your engagement shoot:

1. Think of It Like a Fun Date—With a Third Wheel

Instead of thinking of it as a “photoshoot,” reframe it as a date with your favorite person. Go grab coffee at your go-to spot, take a walk through your favorite park, hit up a beach, or even make pancakes together at home. When you’re doing something that feels natural and you, the camera just captures the real magic.

2. Wear Something That Feels Like You

You don’t have to wear fancy clothes to look amazing in your photos. Choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. If you’re someone who lives in denim and boots, rock them. If you love a flowy dress or a cozy sweater, go for it. Bonus points if you bring a second outfit so we can mix things up!

Not sure what to wear? Choosing outfits that feel like you is one of the best ways to feel confident in front of the camera. If you need a little inspiration, this guide from BRIDES has great tips for picking outfits that photograph beautifully without feeling overdone.

3. Don’t Worry About “Looking Good” for the Camera

You don’t need to practice poses or rehearse your smile. My job is to guide you in a way that feels natural so we can capture those real, in-between moments—the ones that show how much you love each other. Laugh. Snuggle. Whisper dumb jokes. You truly can’t mess this up.

4. Bring a Little Something That’s You

Got a dog that’s part of the family? Bring them along! Love baking together? Let’s make cookies. Guitar player? Let’s hear it. Little personal touches go a long way in making your photos feel like your story, not just a Pinterest board.

5. Trust Your Photographer

I totally get how it feels to be in front of the camera—believe it or not, I get camera shy too! That’s why I focus on keeping things low-key and fun. I’ll give you gentle prompts to help things feel natural, and you’ll never be left wondering what to do with your hands. Promise.

You’re Doing Great, I Promise!

You don’t need to show up as anything other than who you already are. Engagement photos aren’t about perfection—they’re about love. So let’s celebrate yours with joy, laughter, and maybe a few happy tears.

And if you’re still feeling a little unsure, reach out! I’m always happy to talk through ideas and help you plan a session that feels just right for you.

Ready to Plan Your Engagement Session?

If you’re feeling more excited (and maybe a little less nervous) about your engagement session—yay! That’s exactly what I hoped for. Whether you’re ready to start planning or still have a few questions, I’m here for it all. Let’s create something that feels fun, easy, and 100% you.

Still on the fence about whether you need engagement photos? Check out Why You Shouldn’t Skip the Engagement Photoshoot to see why it’s one of the best ways to celebrate this season of life.

Whenever you’re ready, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s Start Planning!