How I Pose Couples Who Aren’t in Love 😱💑
Hey, it’s Vanessa Joy! I’ve been photographing weddings for over 20 years, and I want to show you how to create beautiful, natural-looking photos even when your subjects aren’t romantically involved. This is perfect for practice sessions, styled shoots, or those awkward client situations where your couple isn’t super comfortable yet.
Start With Natural Movement
The easiest way to get natural photos? Have them walk.
I like to have couples hold hands, glance at each other casually, or just look around. Walking helps them relax and get used to being photographed, which makes everything look less stiff and awkward.
Focus on Subtle Interactions
If your couple isn’t in love, skip the kiss or overly romantic gestures. Instead, I focus on small, natural touches:
- Hands on shoulders or around the waist
- Slight lean-ins toward each other
- Sliding hands along arms or holding elbows
Encourage them to look around or occasionally at the camera for variety. These subtle gestures make photos feel authentic and candid.
Add Movement and Playfulness
Movement is your secret weapon to break stiffness:
- Have them sway like they’re dancing
- Introduce cheeky hip bumps
- Walk toward the camera while interacting naturally
These little actions create fun, dynamic photos that feel like real moments.
Use Lighting Strategically
I always pay attention to shadows and highlights.
- Use a reflector to bounce light onto faces
- Adjust poses so neither partner is lost in shadow
- Position them for the most flattering natural light
Even small tweaks make a huge difference in low-light or naturally lit situations.
Keep the Final Deliverables in Mind
I always think about what the images will become: albums, save-the-dates, wall art.
I use Fundy Designer to auto-layout albums and design wall art, then I fine-tune every spread for storytelling and emotional impact. This keeps everything looking polished and intentional.
My Editing Workflow
I edit in Lightroom using my own presets. Here’s my approach:
- Keep skin tones authentic while tweaking highlights and backgrounds
- Convert select images to black & white and add grain for a film-like finish
- Make every photo feel polished, professional, and true to the story
Key Takeaways
- You don’t need a romantic couple to capture authentic, natural photos
- Start with movement and subtle interactions, not forced poses
- Pay attention to lighting and small adjustments—they matter
- Edit thoughtfully to enhance your final product
Even with strangers or a “fake couple,” you can produce stunning, share-worthy images that feel personal, intentional, and professional.
See if it’s the right fit for you: https://www.breatheyourpassion.com/photo-insiders-mastermind-optin
Want my Lightroom Presets? Here's your way to the shop: https://vanessajoy.samcart.com/products/the-complete-editing-bundle
