Pervak Photography, Rachel Bush
Your wedding film is a time capsule—one that captures the glances, the laughter, the quiet in-between moments you might’ve missed in the blur of the day. But for many couples, the idea of being filmed can feel awkward or even overly staged. So, how do you actually feel like yourself on camera? We asked some of the most sought-after wedding videographers to share their best advice for getting comfortable in front of the lens—and actually enjoying it.
John Kurt
Photography: Naomi Goggin
Build Trust Early On
Every great on-camera moment begins with something off-camera: trust. The more connected you feel to your videographer, the more natural and relaxed you’ll appear in front of the lens.
Javier Navarro of Laguna Santa believes that trust is built in the moments before the wedding. “Meeting in person or doing a pre-wedding session can make a huge difference,” he says. “It helps establish a connection, align expectations, and makes you feel more at ease on the big day.”
Echoing this, Luísa Coelho of OS Pixel agrees that genuine connection is everything. "We always meet or chat beforehand to get to know our couples. As with almost everything in life, empathy is the key. A pre-wedding shoot can help the couple feel more comfortable on the wedding day.”
The visionary behind Our Story Creative, Ryan Killackey, suggests going beyond aesthetics when choosing your videographer. To him, a personality match can be just as important as portfolio. “There’s no better way to feel natural than to be surrounded by people who just fit in. Take the time to have a conversation with your videographer prior to booking—not just about the wedding, but about them. How is the flow of the conversation? Is this a person you can see in your inner circle? Look past the pretty shots and try to choose someone that you connect with.”
Prioritize Storytelling Over
Simply Beautiful Shots
A wedding video is more than just a collection of pretty images, but an emotional journey that captures the heart of your day. As Ryan Killackey wisely points out, “Beautiful shots are made even better when you find a videographer who knows how to tell your story. There’s a big difference between capturing the moment they see you for the first time coming down the aisle, and turning it into a compelling, emotional story that leads the viewer to feel that moment. Prioritize the feeling, always!”
Forget About the Camera
Try to think less about the camera and let pure emotion take over. It’s your wedding day, so soak in every moment! That’s exactly the mindset videographer Kate Pervak encourages couples to embrace. “Don’t take the shoot too seriously—it’s not a mission to Mars. Let yourself have fun and enjoy the moment. Lightness and authenticity always look better on camera than stiffness or perfectionism,” she explains.
Gregory of Gregory Films hits the same note: “The best footage happens when couples are simply present with each other. This isn’t about performing; it’s about slowing down, breathing, and enjoying a few quiet moments before the next part of the day begins.”
To help couples truly relax, Dimitra & Dionisis of Aenaon Films take a documentary-style approach, often shooting from a distance with minimal direction. “This allows people to relax and be themselves, which is when the most magical moments happen.”
Focus on Connection
Once you stop noticing the camera and start focusing on what truly matters—your partner, your love, your celebration—everything shifts. That’s when the magic happens.
“We always encourage couples to interact with each other rather than the camera,” say the duo behind Aenaon Films. “Share a moment, hold hands, whisper something funny—this creates authentic reactions that translate beautifully on film.”
Videographer John Kurt shares a similar perspective: “Whenever I speak with my couples about feeling natural on camera, I always say the best footage comes when you're simply focused on each other. Don’t worry about posing or what you think you should be doing. Sometimes the simplest things—like going for a walk together—can create the most beautiful moments. Movement always works well on camera: the swish of a dress, the way you hold flowers or a jacket, the way you reach for each other. Just interact and enjoy each other’s company.”
The team at OS Pixel agrees that the most powerful moments often happen when nothing is forced. “We let couples move through the space naturally—walking, sitting, touching. Movement reduces tension.”
Bring Your Favorite People
Surrounding yourself with your favorite people can help melt away any nerves. Laughing with your friends, clinking glasses, listening to music—it all creates a comfortable atmosphere where you can truly be yourself, and that’s what really shines on camera.
As Gregory of Gregory Films suggests: “Bring the bridal party—and some bubbles. A glass of Champagne and a few close friends can break the tension and make everything feel lighter. When the energy is fun and relaxed, the footage reflects that.”
Take A Break When Needed
Feeling tense? It’s okay to pause. "Don’t hesitate to ask for a stop for a moment, take a deep breath, or shift your focus," recommends Kate Pervak. "A short break can help you reset and come back to the experience with fresh energy and ease."
Javier Navarro especially emphasizes the value of a relaxed schedule. "Photos and videos are some of the only tangible memories you’ll keep from your wedding. Make sure your timeline includes enough breathing room to enjoy these moments without rushing. A relaxed schedule leads to more genuine, beautiful footage."
