Posing vs. Prompting: What to Expect During Your Session

One of the biggest worries I hear from clients before their session is:

“We’re so awkward in front of the camera.”

I promise, you’re not.

If you’ve ever looked at photos and thought, “How do they look so natural and in love?” it’s probably because their photographer didn’t just pose them. They were gently prompted to feel something, do something, or connect in a way that made the moment real.

Today, I’m sharing a little peek behind the scenes of how I work, why I prefer prompting over stiff posing, and what you can expect when we create together.

What’s the Difference Between Posing and Prompting?

Posing is when a photographer tells you exactly how to stand, where to look, and what to do with every limb. While sometimes necessary (especially for large groups or formal portraits), it can feel rigid or forced if overused.

Prompting is different. It’s about giving you an action or idea that naturally brings out real emotion and connection. Think of it as a spark that lets your authentic self shine through.

Instead of saying, “Put your hand here and look over there,” I might say:

✨ “Wrap your arms around each other and sway like you’re dancing in your kitchen.”

✨ “Whisper what you ate for breakfast in a ridiculous voice to make your partner laugh.”

✨ “Look at each other like it’s the first time you realized this is your person.”

This approach creates images that feel alive, honest, and truly you.

Why I Prefer Prompting

When you look back at your photos years from now, I don’t want you to remember me telling you where to put your hands. I want you to remember how it felt.

Prompting:

✅ Brings out real laughter, softness, and connection

✅ Helps you relax and get comfortable quickly

✅ Works beautifully for kids who don’t want to sit still

✅ Makes your photos look natural instead of stiff

Of course, I’ll guide you the entire time, there will be no worrying about what to do next. But instead of perfect poses, we’ll create honest moments together.

What Does This Look Like in Your Session?

Here’s what you can expect:

During your session, I’ll gently guide you with prompts and suggestions, plus a few easy poses as needed. We’ll move, play, and explore.

If you freeze up, don’t worry! I’ll be your hype woman, making sure you feel supported and at ease.

After your session, you’ll receive a gallery full of images that feel natural, emotional, and true to who you are.

We’ll dance, pick flowers, run, snuggle, kiss, and laugh. Your only job is to show up as yourself.

A Few Favorite Prompts

Want a sneak peek? Here are a few of my go-tos:

• “Walk toward me slowly, bumping hips.”
• “Play airplane together.”
• “Let's play a game of tag.”
• “Spin them around!”

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re camera shy or love the spotlight, my job is to create a space where you feel relaxed and connected. No forced smiles, no awkwardness, just you, being you.

When you look back on these photos, I hope you see more than how you looked. I hope you feel how much you loved and were loved in return.