A guide to wedding photography for shy and introverted couples

introvert

noun

Someone who is shy, quiet, and prefers to spend time alone rather than often being with other people

For introverted couples, the idea of being the centre of attention on their wedding day can be overwhelming. However, with the right approach to photography, you can document your special day while staying true to your personality. Here are some tips for introverted couples seeking a more low-key wedding photography experience:

As an introvert myself I really feel your pain

I’m an introvert myself, so it still surprises me that I turn up at all on wedding days. – they’re such social events and I really have to mask up. Which I think I do quite well, but don’t be surprised when I say I’d rather not eat with the guests / stay for the party afterwards. (I find this stuff difficult enough with my own friends)

Which is probably why I’m not the life and soul of the party and I am my photographic best living in the day, observing and not drawing attention to myself. Which is why I’m drawn to documentary wedding photography and it’s unobtrusive style of working

Choosing the right photographer

You know what I’m going to say here, right? The observational, candid and unstaged nature of documentary / reportage / wedding photojournalism is a perfect match for an introverted couple. If you want to find out more about that check in at the homepage, see some real weddings and see if it’s the style for you.

Most importantly though, communicate this to your wedding photographer – you’ll find that a good wedding photographer works with all kinds of people. (I certainly aim to work with all kinds of people, because it keeps life interesting)

Couples Portraits

You don’t have to do couple portraits (again, this is a perk of the documentary style – we just want to capture your relationship and the day as it happens). However, if you do want some pictures of the two of you together, I’d opt for a photographer who works in a more relaxed style and doesn’t want to pose you. You can read more about my approach to getting Relaxed Couple Portraits here.

Utilise your venue

Select quiet, secluded spots for couple portraits to minimise stress and maximise comfort. Your photographer can help you with this – whether they’ve worked your venue before or not (I often think the value of a photographer knowing a venue well is overrated – a good photographer can get the lay of the land and account for light and weather conditions pretty quickly)

Limit group photos

Pare down your shot list to essential group photos to reduce time spent in the spotlight. For more advice on organising and surviving group photos, check out this article

Schedule Breaks

I certainly know I will be doing (please don’t seat me with your guests!). For yourself – make sure you build in quiet moments throughout the day to recharge and reconnect with your partner.

Consider an unplugged ceremony

Ask guests to put away their phones and cameras, allowing you to feel more at ease during the ceremony.

Remember, your wedding photos should reflect who you are as a couple. By communicating your preferences clearly with your photographer, you can ensure a comfortable experience that results in beautiful, authentic memories of your special day.

About Me

I’m a documentary wedding photographer based in Derby. I’m an introvert myself, live with my wife and three children and a constant whirlwind of cats, dogs, musical instruments and analog cameras.

If you’re looking to book a wedding photographer and this work speaks to you – please get in touch to talk about your plans.