A Guide to Feeling Confident and Comfortable from a Green Bay Wedding Photographer
As a Green Bay wedding photographer, I can tell you that if the thought of being in front of a camera makes you want to dive under a blanket and never come out — you are so not alone. I hear it all the time:
“We’re awkward in photos.”
“I have no idea what to do with my hands!”
“We’ve never done a photoshoot before… is that okay?”
Guess what? Feeling camera-shy is completely normal — and totally okay. You don’t need to be a model, influencer, or red carpet regular to have gorgeous, authentic, joy-filled photos that feel like you. You just need a photographer who knows how to bring out the magic in your connection — and as a Green Bay wedding photographer, I’ve helped so many couples do exactly that.
Whether you’re prepping for your engagement session or your wedding day, here’s how to feel natural in front of the camera — even if being photographed isn’t your comfort zone.
1. Choose a Photographer You Feel Comfortable With
This is huge. If you’re not at ease with your photographer, it’s going to be harder to relax and enjoy the experience. That’s why chemistry matters just as much as skill.
As a wedding photographer in Green Bay, I know how important it is to feel a real connection with the person capturing your most personal moments. When we work together, my goal is to make you feel like you’re just hanging out with a friend — not like you’re stuck in a stiff photoshoot. I bring a fun, upbeat energy to every session, with lots of encouragement, laughter, and low-pressure vibes.
You don’t have to perform or be perfect — just show up as yourselves, and I’ll guide the rest.
2. Don’t Worry About Posing — That’s My Job
One of the biggest fears couples have is: “I don’t know how to pose.”
Let me stop you right there — you don’t have to.
I’ll guide you every step of the way with prompts and gentle direction that’s designed to feel natural, not forced. Instead of stiff, traditional poses, I like to use movement and emotion to bring out the real connection between you two.
My style is dreamy, romantic, earthy, and above all, real. Whether we’re taking golden hour portraits in a nearby park, or wandering through one of Green Bay’s beautiful nature spots, we’ll focus less on perfection and more on connection.
You don’t have to “pose.” You just have to be present — and I’ll take care of the rest.
3. Embrace the Awkward — It’s Actually Adorable
Let’s just name it: sometimes taking photos can feel a little awkward. But guess what? That awkwardness? It often turns into the cutest, most genuine moments.
When you’re nervously laughing because you don’t know what to do, that laugh becomes the photo you’ll love the most. When your partner makes a goofy face to break the tension, that playful moment becomes a favorite memory.
Instead of fighting the awkward, lean into it. Be silly. Be yourselves. You don’t have to be Pinterest-perfect — just present, in love, and open to having fun.
And if things do get weird (in the best way)? I promise, this Green Bay wedding photographer has seen it all — and I’m totally here for it.
4. Wear Something That Makes You Feel Like You
Confidence often starts with what you’re wearing. If you’re uncomfortable in your outfit — tugging, adjusting, or feeling unlike yourself — it can show on camera.
Here are a few quick tips:
- Dress for comfort and confidence.
- Stick to your style.
- Go with earthy, neutral tones. These photograph beautifully with the Midwest landscapes we have here in Green Bay — from fields and woods to waterfront views.
If you need help picking an outfit, I’ve got a full prep guide I provide all of my clients.
5. Make It a Date — Not a Photoshoot
Want to forget the camera’s even there? Treat your session like a date.
Bring your favorite snacks or drinks. Dance to your go-to song. Cuddle up on a picnic blanket or go for a walk in Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary or Fonferek Glen. Some of my favorite sessions have felt more like a laid-back afternoon with friends than a formal shoot.
As a local Green Bay wedding photographer, I know all the cozy, scenic spots for photo sessions — and I’ll help you find the perfect one for your vibe.
6. Trust the Process
Sometimes, you might not feel like you’re looking your best in the moment. Maybe your hair’s doing something funky or you feel like you’re blinking too much. That’s okay! The magic happens in the in-between moments that you might not even notice.
I’m watching everything with a storyteller’s eye: the light falling perfectly on your cheek, the way your hands naturally find each other, the smile you give when you’re not trying too hard.
So if you find yourself overthinking, just pause and remember: you don’t have to do anything perfectly. Just trust the process. I’ve got you.
7. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera
The more you focus on your partner and the connection you share, the less you’ll even notice the camera.
During your session, I’ll encourage you to interact with each other — talk, laugh, hug, play, be goofy. Think of it as your time to reconnect. When your energy is directed toward each other instead of the lens, everything shifts: your shoulders relax, your smiles become real, and the images capture not just your faces, but your love.
That’s what I live to photograph.
8. Practice Makes It Easier (Hello, Engagement Session!)
If you’re still feeling unsure, I always recommend having an engagement session before the big day. It’s the perfect chance to get comfortable in front of the camera without the pressure of a timeline or guests.
You’ll get to experience what it’s like to work with me, and learn how relaxed and fun a session can actually be. Bonus: you’ll have beautiful photos to use for your save-the-dates, wedding website, or just to frame in your home.
And as your Green Bay wedding photographer, I’m happy to recommend gorgeous seasonal spots (yes, even in winter — hello snowy forests and cozy downtown streets!).
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Be a “Picture Person” to Have Beautiful Photos
Here’s the truth: you don’t have to know what you’re doing. You just have to be open, honest, and in love. Everything else — the posing, the comfort, the photos that take your breath away — will come naturally when you’re working with someone who gets it.
And that’s what I’m here for.
With a fun-loving spirit, an eye for romance, and a camera ready to tell your story, I’ll help you feel like yourselves — whether you’re total camera naturals or can’t remember the last time you took a photo together. If you’re looking for a Green Bay wedding photographer who makes the process feel fun, easy, and completely stress-free — I’d love to meet you.
Let’s Capture the Real You
Ready to stop worrying about feeling awkward in photos and start enjoying the moment? Let’s make it happen.
📩 https://elstudios.art/wedding-inquire
📍 Serving Green Bay, WI and beyond
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