The strange thing about taking couple shots is that a “candid” is hardly ever a pure candid. If you’ve posed for engagement or wedding photographs, then you know what I mean– as much as we try to forget the cameras are there, we can’t.
But there’s something so precious about capturing those moments of tenderness and affection, even if they are posed. When my husband and I did our engagement and wedding-day shoot, it took me at least a few minutes to become comfortable posing affectionately for the camera. It was the very definition of “act naturally.”
Thankfully, our photographers were so wonderful that I let my guard down quickly. We’ve taken photos of ourselves before by using a trusty tripod, but we were now asked by a third party to pose a certain way or to look in certain directions. Some of the photos turned out surprisingly natural-looking; even I can’t remember which ones were directed, and which ones we did just on our own.
Ultimately, I think that the sweetness of a relationship can’t be captured in any tangible form; instead, we hold those snapshots as signs of a precious reality far deeper than images or words. The joy of being loved by someone is not the opportunity to gloat or to simply frame a few special images– though we’ll certainly do the latter. It is a reminder to be humbled by that love, knowing ourselves to be imperfect, and to pour out that love upon others.
My husband’s love for me has been inspiring, and it goes far deeper than the smiles and hugs you see here. We all know that love is about bearing with one another through all things. The happy ending of every fairytale is only the beginning of what will be a test of character and commitment forever after.
Still, we enjoyed taking these photos. They were precious moments before the wedding ceremony, where we were able to celebrate our relationship together, and marvel at how far we’ve come.
Have you ever posed for a couple shoot?Did it feel natural, or more like one of these “engagement photos that will make you happy you’re alone“? I would love to know!
{Read last week’s Wedding Snapshots: Not Just About the Bride}
