Unposed tips for natural photos

What if posing a couple was simpler than ordering take out?

Or am I the only one who is a little obsessed with takeout, no dishes, and an evening just talking away?

What if posing was so simple that you didn't feel like you were really even posing anyone? Total #goals, right? Here are 5 things to help you do just that!

5 tips for posing couples

1) GET TO KNOW THE COUPLE

This may seem a little obvious, but it's key to images that leave them saying, "This is so us!" Before an engagement shoot or wedding, I like to ask a few questions inside a wedding questionnaire. I use these answers when I'm submitting the shoot or event later on, but it also helps me to understand them as a couple!

This doesn't have to be anything extravagant. Ask them what hobbies they have and what their dream Saturday looks like. You can switch it up for each client or ask the same questions every time!

No right or wrong way to do this - just have fun and kick off the relationship!

Tips for Directing Couples - Jordan Brittley Photography

2) GIVE THEM TIME TO WARM UP TO THE CAMERA

Start with some simple poses. Do a traditional portrait where they are both looking at the camera and smiling. When I start this way, I like to explain that this is for their parents and grandparents! It's an easy way to let them know that we won't be doing this every time!

If you can tell they're nervous, set up a big shot and give them some breathing room. By the time you make your way back to them, they'll be relaxed and ready to go!

It's totally normal for them to be nervous in front of the camera and it's totally normal for you to be a little nervous. Give yourself some time to find a good rhythm and keep it entertaining until you do!

3) IF THEY ARE STILL A LITTLE NERVOUS AFTER 10 MINUTES THEN PROVE TO THEM THAT THEY ARE DOING GREAT

This is a huge advantage of shooting film and digital! If a client still feels nervous about the way she looks, I show her a digital image. I try to boost confidence through affirmation, through my emails, and just directing the session so their focus is on each other. But if a waive of nervousness shows up in the middle of a session, I show them an image!

Side note: If there are no nerves, I try to stay away from sharing an image because it puts the focus on how they look instead of being in the moment.

4) GIVE THEM PERMISSION TO BE THEMSELVES

After I take the traditional image, I always walk up to the couple and give them a little pep talk. It’s important for them to know that this is going to be such a great session and that I really want to photograph who they are. I give them permission to do something different: “...so if I tell you to kiss her forehead, but you really just want to sweep her off her feet, do it!"

5) ENCOURAGE THEM TO FOCUS ON EACH OTHER

Now that their personalities are really shining, keep their attention on each other. Pull out the little quirks they have as a couple... how they hold hands a little different or how he puts his arm around her every chance he gets.

They will be so thankful that you took the time to see who they really are.