Close-up of a couple touching faces, dressed in wedding attire with bride wearing earrings and groom in tuxedo; sun flare between them.

How to Plan an Intimate
Wedding Abroad –
Ultimate Guide

Photographers for your intimate destination wedding or elopement

For the Nostalgic, Storyteller, MUSIC and Cinema Lovers

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Your Ultimate Guide to PLANNING YOUR SPECIAL DAY

BY ERIC RENE PENOY

The Complete Guide to Planning an Adventurous Dream Wedding

Not everyone feels comfortable in front of a camera, and that’s completely normal! Many couples worry about looking awkward, feeling stiff, or not knowing what to do during a couple photography session. But don’t worry—your love, connection, and adventure will shine through, even if you're naturally camera shy.

A couple session isn’t about forced smiles or stiff poses. It’s about capturing genuine moments—whether it’s a cozy embrace in a misty forest, laughter while hiking up a mountain, or a quiet moment by the ocean. The best photos happen when you’re relaxed, having fun, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

This guide is designed for adventurous couples who want to embrace the experience, feel confident in front of the camera, and create stunning images in breathtaking landscapes. We’ll cover mindset tips, preparation ideas, movement-based poses, and fun activities to help you enjoy your session—even if you're camera shy.

So, let’s dive in and turn your couple shoot into an unforgettable adventure!

Let‘s have a Simple but Deep Connection

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Checklist: How to Enjoy Your Couple Session Even If You're Camera Shy

✅ Choose a Photographer You Trust – Find someone who makes you feel comfortable.
✅ Pick a Meaningful Location – Nature helps you relax and feel at ease.
✅ Wear Comfortable Outfits – Choose clothing that makes you feel like yourself.
✅ Focus on Movement – Walk, dance, or play together instead of standing still.
✅ Forget the Camera – Think of it as a fun date, not a photoshoot.
✅ Embrace Imperfection – Windblown hair, laughter, and candid moments are the best.
✅ Bring Music – A playlist can help set a relaxed, romantic mood.
✅ Take Deep Breaths – Nerves are normal! Breathe and enjoy the experience.
✅ Interact Naturally – Hold hands, whisper, laugh, or gaze into each other’s eyes.
✅ Enjoy the Moment! – The best photos happen when you’re fully present and having fun.

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ENJOY YOUR COUPLE SESSION ON YOUR WEDDING DAY

How to Enjoy Your Couple Session Even If You’re Camera Shy

1. Understanding Why You Feel Camera Shy

  • The psychology behind camera shyness.

  • How to shift your mindset from “posing” to “experiencing.”

  • The power of storytelling: Your couple session is about capturing emotions, not perfection.

2. Choosing a Location That Feels Comfortable

  • How nature & landscapes help you relax.

  • Best locations for adventurous couples: Mountains, forests, beaches, waterfalls, deserts.

  • Making the location meaningful—choosing a spot that reflects your love story.

3. Finding a Photographer Who Makes You Feel at Ease

  • Why personality matters in choosing your photographer.

  • What to look for in a couple session photographer.

  • Questions to ask before booking.

4. Pre-Session Preparation for a Stress-Free Experience

  • Outfits that make you feel comfortable & confident.

  • Hair & makeup tips for a natural look.

  • Creating a playlist of songs to set the mood.

5. Embracing Movement & Interaction Instead of Posing

  • The importance of movement in natural photography.

  • Easy, non-awkward prompts (walking, dancing, holding hands, whispering secrets).

  • How to forget the camera and focus on each other.

6. Turning the Session into an Adventure

  • Ideas for nature-loving couples (hiking, kayaking, hot air balloon rides).

  • Capturing candid moments—how to create an experience rather than just a photoshoot.

  • How adventure helps you forget the camera is there.

7. Connecting Emotionally for More Natural Photos

  • The importance of eye contact, laughter, and vulnerability.

  • How to create genuine moments by reminiscing about your love story.

  • Trusting your photographer to guide you.

8. Letting Go of Perfection & Enjoying the Moment

  • Why imperfections make photos more beautiful.

  • How to embrace wind, unexpected weather, or spontaneous moments.

  • The magic of authentic, raw emotion in photography.

9. Posing Tips That Don’t Feel Like Posing

  • How to avoid stiff, unnatural poses.

  • The power of gentle direction instead of strict posing.

  • Natural ways to interact: walking together, playing with hair, forehead touches.

10. How to Overcome Nerves on the Day of the Session

  • Simple breathing exercises to relax.

  • Focusing on your partner, not the camera.

  • Reminding yourself: “This is about our love, not the perfect pose.”

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CONCLUSION

A couple session isn’t about perfect poses—it’s about capturing your love story in the most natural, beautiful way possible. Even if you’re camera shy, you can still enjoy your session by focusing on your partner, embracing movement, and choosing a location that feels like an adventure.

When you let go of the idea of perfection, you open yourself up to real, raw, and emotional moments. The best photos happen when you're laughing, hugging, walking hand in hand, or sharing an inside joke. These moments tell your unique love story in a way that’s far more meaningful than a posed smile.

So, whether you’re wandering through the mountains, dancing in the desert, or exploring the wild coastline, remember: your love is what makes the photos special. Trust your photographer, immerse yourself in the experience, and let the adventure unfold naturally.

At the end of the day, your couple session is a chance to celebrate your relationship, embrace adventure, and create lasting memories. So take a deep breath, hold your partner close, and enjoy the magic of the moment!