Movement Over Posing: Real Moments Look Better Than Perfect Poses
When you see a camera pointed at you, your instinct is probably to stop moving, stand up straight, and smile. We have all been trained to do this for school photos and selfies.
But here is the secret to a beautiful wedding film: Video is not about posing. It is about living.
If you stand perfectly still for a video, it can look a bit stiff or unnatural. The best footage happens when you forget the camera is there and simply enjoy your party. Here is how to look amazing without ever trying too hard.
Don’t Freeze for the Camera
In photography, holding still is important. In video, it is actually better to keep doing what you are doing.
- Keep the moment going. If you are walking down the hall and see a camera, don’t stop! Keep walking.
- Finish your laugh. If something is funny, laugh with your whole body. Don’t cut it short just to smile nicely for the lens.
- Stay in motion. Real life is always moving. Your video should reflect that energy.
Focus on Your Guests, Not the Lens
You invited your favorite people for a reason. The most cinematic shots often happen when you are interacting with them, not looking at me.
- Hug your family. Don’t just stand next to them for a photo. Give your mom a real, tight hug.
- High-five your friends. Mingling, toasting, and joking around look fantastic on film.
- Ignore me. If I am filming you chatting with a friend, pretend I am invisible. The moment you look at the camera, the natural magic of the conversation stops.
Stay Connected to Your Partner
You don’t need to know “what to do with your hands.” You just need to focus on the person you just married.
- Hold hands. Walking from the ceremony to the reception? Just hold hands naturally.
- Touch is a language. A hand on the small of the back, fixing his tie, or tucking hair behind her ear—these small, natural touches show more love than any staged pose ever could.
- Look at each other. When in doubt, look at your partner, not the camera.
Slow Down and Soak It In
Wedding days go by fast. Nerves can sometimes make you rush. The only technical advice I will give you is this: Slow down.
- Walk slowly. Whether it is down the aisle or during sunset portraits, take your time. It looks elegant and gives you time to breathe.
- Don’t rush the kiss. A quick peck happens in a split second. A slow, gentle kiss allows us to capture the emotion of the moment.
Trust Your Videographer
You don’t need to worry about angles, lighting, or “looking natural.” That is my job.
- Release the pressure. You are not a professional actor, and you don’t need to be.
- Enjoy the party. If you are having a great time, the video will look great. It is that simple.
Final Thoughts
The most breathtaking wedding films aren’t the ones where the couple looks perfect; they are the ones where the couple looks happy.
Don’t worry about being stiff or posing perfectly. Hug your friends, kiss your partner, and dance like nobody is watching. I will be there to capture it all.