For many couples, the idea of being professionally photographed feels a little daunting — especially when your wedding or engagement session is the first time you’ve ever stepped in front of a lens together.
You may be thinking,
“We’re not models. We’re not photogenic. What do we do with our hands?”
And honestly, that’s completely normal.
As a wedding and engagement photographer based in Perth and the South West of WA, I’ve worked with dozens of couples who’ve said the exact same thing — only to walk away with images that feel effortless, natural, and deeply personal.
So what’s the secret? It’s not about stiff poses or forced smiles.
It’s about intentional direction, movement, and connection — and that’s where posing prompts come in.
What Are Posing Prompts?
Posing prompts are a modern, elevated approach to guiding couples through a photography experience that feels natural and genuine.
Unlike traditional posing (think: “stand here, tilt your head, smile”), prompts are more like small actions or verbal cues that invite emotion, interaction, and spontaneity. They are designed to create moments, not just images.
Here’s what that might look like:
-
Walking hand in hand, with a quiet whisper shared between you
-
A soft brush of the hand against your partner’s cheek
-
A question like, “What was your first impression of each other?”
-
A playful challenge: “Try not to laugh while looking into their eyes”
You’re not posing in the conventional sense — you’re experiencing. And I’m simply capturing the feeling of that moment as it unfolds.
Why Posing Prompts Are So Powerful
When you view a wedding gallery filled with elegant, emotive, unforced imagery, chances are posing prompts played a part behind the scenes.
Here’s why I use them with every couple — from Perth city sessions to remote South West elopements:
1. They evoke emotion, not performance
I’m not interested in capturing a version of you that’s styled for the camera. My goal is to document how you feel, not just how you look.
Posing prompts unlock those subtle in-between expressions — the glances, the laughter, the gentle touch on the arm — that feel undeniably you.
2. They relieve performance pressure
You don’t need to perform. You don’t need to be camera-savvy. In fact, the best images often come when you forget the camera is even there.
I use prompts to gently guide you into a rhythm where you’re simply being, not posing. Within minutes, most couples say they feel surprisingly relaxed — and many even enjoy the process.
3. They reflect your relationship dynamic
Every couple is different. Some are playful. Some are tender and soft-spoken. Some are wildly romantic, others reserved and subtle.
Prompts allow me to adjust my direction based on your natural energy, so the images we create together reflect your personalities and the quiet intimacy that’s unique to you.
A Tailored Experience, Wherever You Are in WA
Whether we’re capturing your engagement session in Fremantle or Kings Park, or your wedding at a vineyard in Margaret River, the way I use prompts is always tailored to the environment, the lighting, and your connection.
For example:
-
On the coastline at Yallingup, you might walk barefoot through the dunes, wrapped in each other’s arms, the wind catching your hair — and your laughter.
-
In a private forest estate near Pemberton, I might guide you into a moment of stillness, your silhouettes framed by towering karri trees.
-
In Perth’s urban cityscape, we might use architecture and movement to create editorial-style images filled with motion and grace.
The result? A gallery that is cohesive, elevated, and deeply personal — not just pretty pictures, but timeless memories.
What You Can Expect During Our Time Together
From the very first conversation, my role is to help you feel calm, confident, and connected. Here’s how that plays out during a session:
✧ Gentle guidance, never forced poses
I’ll direct you, but I won’t over-control the moment. You’ll never feel like you’re “doing it wrong.”
✧ A safe space to just be yourselves
Many couples tell me they feel emotionally held during our shoots. That matters to me. This isn’t just about photos — it’s about experience.
✧ A flow that feels effortless
Each prompt is designed with flow and transition in mind. We move gently from one moment to the next, so you’re never standing frozen in place.
“But We’re So Awkward…”
Let me say this with love:
You are not awkward. You are simply unfamiliar with being photographed — and that’s different.
Here’s what previous couples have shared:
“Leah helped us feel so at ease when both of us aren’t too comfortable in front of the camera.” – Emily & Liam, Perth
“As a bloke I was pretty sus on this “photo shoot” situation but Leah made us feel comfortable.” – Josh & Carolin, Albany
“From the moment we met Leah, we were instantly at ease and comfortable in her presence, making it such a fun experience.” – Abbey & Jeremy, Margaret River
Why This Matters
You deserve more than a set of pretty portraits. You deserve a photography experience that honours who you are as a couple — your rhythm, your intimacy, your story.
By using intentional posing prompts rooted in emotion and elegance, I’m able to create imagery that feels authentic, artful, and deeply you.
These are the photos you’ll return to for years — not just because they’re beautiful, but because they feel true.
If you’re looking for a luxury wedding or engagement photographer in Perth or South West WA who will help you feel natural, seen, and comfortable in front of the camera, I’d love to connect.
Whether you’re newly engaged or finalising your wedding plans, I offer a tailored experience rooted in artistry, empathy, and intention.
Connect with me here — I’d be honoured to document your day with intention, grace, and heart.
With love, Leah xx
Comments