Whether for romantic portraits, celebrating your friendship, or updating your business branding, having your photo taken as a couple can feel like a big deal. After all, you’re trying to nail the photo while capturing your unique relationship.
The good news? You don’t need to be a professional model to achieve great results. With some preparation and teamwork, your photos will look relaxed, natural and perfectly you. Here’s how to make that happen.
1 – Start with a Clear Vision
Before the shoot, think about why you’re having these photos taken. I always start any photography assignment by understanding your why.
Are you celebrating a special milestone, creating content for your business, or just looking for beautiful keepsakes? Having a clear purpose will guide the mood, outfits, and location. For example:
Romantic couples: Consider intimate settings or locations that mean something to you, like where you first met.
Friends: Go for playful poses in places that reflect your shared interests.
Business partners: Aim for professional, approachable shots in a clean, professional setting.
2 – Coordinate Your Outfits
Matching (matchy matchy) doesn’t mean identical. Complement each other’s styles by choosing a colour palette or vibe that works well together. For example:
-Neutral tones and soft fabrics for romantic couples.
-Bold colours or quirky patterns for friends who want playful vibes.
-Smart-casual or business formal for professional partnerships.
Remember, these are only suggestions. Ultimately, develop an outfit theme that fits what you’re trying to achieve with your photos.
Avoid overly busy patterns or clashing colours, as they can be distracting. If you’re unsure, lay out your outfits side by side before the shoot to see how they work together.
3 – Choose a Meaningful Location
Where you choose to have your photos taken is an important part of the overall image. Think about places that resonate with your relationship:
For example, you might pick a cosy café, your favourite park for couples or friends, or a co-working space, office, or sleek studio for business partners.
Your location can set the tone and help you feel more at ease—familiar environments often lead to more authentic photos.
4 – Relax and Be Yourselves
The best photos capture connection, not perfection. If you’re feeling stiff or awkward, it will show. Focus on each other instead of the camera.
For couples, think about private jokes or special moments you’ve shared. Friends can chat or joke around during the session.
Business partners? Act as if you’re pitching to a client or brainstorming ideas together—natural interactions create genuine smiles.
One of my favourite things during a photoshoot is prompting my subjects to get the desired response, whether cracking a joke or getting them talking (and thinking) about a particular moment.
5 – Mind Your Body Language
Body language comes across clearly in photos, so pay attention to your pose.
Standing or sitting close together conveys unity. Crossing your arms might come across as defensive unless it’s a deliberate pose for your branding.
Use gentle touches, like holding hands or leaning in slightly, to create a connection without it looking forced.
Experiment with different poses, such as facing the camera directly or angling slightly toward each other. If you’re worried about posing, don’t be! I have years of experience showing and teaching my clients how to stand and pose.
6 – Use Props for Added Personality
Props can help tell your story and make you feel more comfortable. Bring along items that represent your relationship:
-A picnic blanket, bouquet, or sentimental object for couples.
-Books, art supplies, or sports gear for friends.
-Laptops, coffee mugs, or tools of your trade for business partners.
Again, these are only ideas. It’s important to select props that tell your story.
Props can also help keep your hands busy, making the poses more natural.
7 – Trust Your Photographer
I’ve got a T-shirt somewhere that says ‘Trust me, I’m a photographer’.
Your photographer is there to guide you. If you’re unsure about poses or feel nervous, let them (me?) know.
A good photographer will help you find flattering angles, suggest creative ideas, and relax the atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to share your preferences or ideas ahead of time—it’s your session, and collaboration makes for better results.
8 – Laugh It Off
Not every moment will go perfectly during the shoot. Someone might blink, stumble, or burst out laughing—and that’s okay!
In fact, candid moments often make for the most memorable shots. Embrace the imperfections and enjoy the experience.
Remember: it’s about capturing you, not creating a flawless magazine cover. Unless you want a flawless magazine cover; we can do that, too.
9 – Plan Ahead but Stay Flexible
Discuss the schedule, location, and outfits in advance, but don’t stress if things don’t go exactly as planned.
The weather might change, a location might be crowded, or you might decide to try a new idea mid-shoot.
Stay open to improvisation—it often leads to the best results.
10 – Celebrate Your Connection
Ultimately, this photoshoot is about celebrating your personal or business relationship.
The photo shoot is an opportunity to allow your unique bond to shine through, whether that’s a loving gaze, a shared laugh, or a professional handshake.
The more comfortable and authentic you are, the more your photos will reflect your true selves.
Capture Your Story with Ease
Photoshoots don’t have to be daunting, even when you’re sharing the spotlight with someone else. With a bit of preparation and a lot of authenticity, you’ll walk away with images that tell your story beautifully.
If you’re looking for a photographer in the Surrey Hills to help bring your vision to life, I’d love to hear from you.
I specialise in creating relaxed, natural portraits that reflect your unique connection—whether you’re a couple in love, lifelong friends, or partners in business.
Get in touch today to book your session or discuss your ideas—I can’t wait to work with you!
