How to Look Amazing in Your Wedding Photos: Pro Tips from Bella Alder Photo + Film Salt Lake City

How to Look Amazing in Your Wedding Photos: Pro Tips from Bella Alder Photo + Film

Your wedding day is one of the most magical days of your life, and you want your photos to reflect just how incredible it felt. As a Salt Lake wedding photographer, Bella Alder Photo + Film specializes in capturing authentic, breathtaking images that make you look and feel amazing. While professional photography plays a huge role, there are plenty of things you can do to enhance your wedding photos. From posing tricks to preparation tips, here’s everything you need to know about looking your absolute best in your wedding photos.

1. Choose the Right Photographer

Before anything else, selecting a wedding photographer whose style and approach align with your vision is key. At Bella Alder Photo + Film, we focus on capturing romantic, timeless, and light-filled images that reflect your personality and the beauty of your wedding day. If you love candid, emotional moments and elegant, editorial-style portraits, working with a photographer who specializes in this aesthetic will make all the difference.

2. Plan Your Timeline Around the Best Light

Lighting is one of the biggest factors in how your wedding photos turn out. The best natural light happens during golden hour—about an hour before sunset—when the sun casts a soft, dreamy glow. Work with your photographer to schedule key photo moments during this time, such as couple portraits and bridal party shots. If you’re having a midday ceremony, we’ll find shaded spots or use creative angles to avoid harsh shadows and squinting.

3. Have a Bridal Session or Engagement Shoot

A bridal session or engagement shoot before the wedding is a great way to practice being in front of the camera. It helps you get comfortable with posing, understand what angles work best for you, and establish a natural rhythm with your photographer. Plus, it gives you stunning images to use for save-the-dates, wedding decor, or gifts for family.

4. Perfect Your Posture

Great posture can instantly elevate your wedding photos. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Stand up tall with shoulders back and down (but relaxed, not stiff).

  • Slightly shift your weight onto your back leg for a natural stance.

  • Keep arms slightly away from your body to create a more flattering silhouette.

  • If standing with your partner, lean slightly toward each other for a more intimate look.

5. Practice Posing in a Way That Feels Natural

The best wedding photos are the ones where you look and feel like yourself. Instead of stiff, forced poses, focus on movement and connection. Try these:

  • The Walk & Talk: Walk hand in hand while chatting or laughing—it creates effortless, candid images.

  • The Almost Kiss: Get close enough that you’re just about to kiss—this creates a romantic, intimate shot without smudging lipstick.

  • The Spin: If your dress has movement, do a slow twirl for some dynamic, magical shots.

  • The Forehead Touch: Resting foreheads together creates a sweet and emotional connection in photos.

6. Choose a Dress That Photographs Well

Your wedding dress will be a focal point in many photos, so consider how it moves and photographs. Dresses with flowing fabrics, intricate lace details, or structured silhouettes often look stunning in images. If you’re unsure, ask your photographer for advice on which styles photograph best in different lighting conditions.

7. Be Mindful of Hair & Makeup Choices

Your wedding day makeup should enhance your natural beauty while being slightly more defined than everyday makeup to stand out in photos. Consider these tips:

  • Use matte or semi-matte products to avoid excessive shine in photos.

  • Opt for a long-wearing foundation that won’t fade throughout the day.

  • False lashes can help define your eyes, making them pop in pictures.

  • Keep a touch-up kit on hand for quick fixes, especially lipstick and powder.

For hair, choose a style that holds up well to movement and weather. Soft waves, classic updos, or sleek ponytails often work beautifully.

8. Relax Your Face & Hands

A tense expression or stiff hands can make even the most beautiful pose look awkward. To avoid this:

  • Take deep breaths and relax your jaw.

  • Gently part your lips for a soft, natural expression.

  • If you feel your smile getting stiff, look away and laugh before looking back at the camera.

  • Keep hands lightly curled instead of clenched.

9. Keep the Focus on Each Other

Some of the best wedding photos come from genuine emotions and real interactions. Instead of worrying about the camera, focus on your partner. Whisper a sweet secret, steal a quick kiss, or share an inside joke. The result? Beautiful, authentic moments captured forever.

10. Trust Your Photographer

The best way to look amazing in your wedding photos is to trust your photographer’s expertise. Bella Alder Photo + Film knows how to direct, guide, and position you for the most flattering shots while still keeping everything natural and fun. We’ll ensure you feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful throughout your entire wedding day.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding photos should reflect the joy, beauty, and love you feel on your big day. By choosing the right photographer, planning for great lighting, practicing natural poses, and focusing on genuine connection, you’ll ensure that every image is as stunning as you’ve always dreamed. If you’re searching for a Salt Lake wedding photographer who will make you look and feel your best, Bella Alder Photo + Film would love to capture your love story. Contact us today to learn more about our wedding photography and videography services!

Bella AlderSALT LAKE