Getting Couples Comfortable with Being Photographed

It can be a bit difficult at times to mee couples for the first time, and begin photographing without them feeling a bit uncomfortable in front of the camera at first. As a photographer, it's necessary to understand the kind of couple you're working with and get them to feel comfortable - the way they naturally feel around eachother. So how do you build rapport with someone quickly to help ease the tension?

Initially, I talk in-person with the couple about what style they want and make sure I have a complete understanding of what kind of photography they're interested in. The more they talk and we connect in person, the more comfortable everyone feels when there is an understanding about what's expected. Also telling information about yourself, experiences that you had on previous photo shoots, and why you love doing photography helps them to better understand you as well.

When I'm ready to begin shooting, I tell the couple to just talk to each other. The couple can then focus on talking to each other instead of asking them to smile and pose with a unnatural look on their face. Couples need to be eased into the photography, and they will gradually feel more comfortable. I begin by photographing them while they are talking which gives me some candid shots while they start to get comfortable. People will naturally begin to smile when they feel comfortable. When I can tell they are comfortable, I just tell them to look at the camera and I'm able to capture a comfortable moment.

Every couple is different, some will be camera-shy and will need help with them often with their poses. Other couples will jump right into a pose and will be really smiley. Regardless of who your dealing with, you will build rapport faster if you keep the conversation going throughout the photo shoot. Many people love talking about themselves - so, just ask a lot of questions - especially about how the couple met and what their future plans are~

Couple's photography can be a great experience to meet new people and learn something new about how different relationships work. Who knows what you might learn about yourself and your relationships through your experiences with different couples~