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We're suckers for wedding photos in nontraditional locations! So when Offbeat Wed vendor Zac Wolf of Zac Wolf Photography flew to Japan to shoot Miho + Shogo's wedding portraits in their childhood neighborhood, we had to see more. After we ogled at the whole album, we realized Zac had a knack for capturing a variety of poses, the kind you want to hang on your wall long after your wedding day. So, we decided to make this post an ode to creative wedding portrait ideas.
Try not to get a major case of wanderlust after you see these photos! And wait till you read Zac's story behind shooting this couple. It'll pull at your heartstrings!
Wedding Portrait Idea #1: The Hug-From-Behind
There are few things in this world that feel as loving as a warm hug from behind. In order for this wedding portrait idea to work, the hugger must be taller than the hugg-ee. The tall partner will wrap their arms around the shorter partner's waist. The shorter partner can put their hands on the tall partner's hands! The photographer might ask the tall partner to kiss the other or make a joke. The results are natural smiles and laughter while being pretty close to each other's faces. It might feel awkward and send you back to high school prom, but the photos are gorgeous!
Wedding Portrait Idea #2: The Modern Pose
For this wedding portrait idea, stand far away from the camera. From there the photragrapher might have you look at them or each other. As the photographer gets closer, they might ask you to do something intimate that looks great in a close up, either kiss or laugh like the example below! You can do this easy, unforced pose to capture your natural chemistry in an effortless way. Plus, the photographer can get several great shots in just a few minutes. It looks extra cool with an awesome background!
I met Shogo 10 years ago the first time I visited Japan. I posted on Instagram that I'd be coming back and he told me it was his dream to have me photograph his wedding portraits. We made it happen!
He's a sign painter, she works a desk job. Two of the nicest people on earth and we barely speak the same language.
Zac Wolf Photography
Wedding Portrait Idea #3: Hold hands and face each other
This wedding portrait idea is simple! Simply face each other and hold hands. If you're in a beautiful location, the photographer might capture the landscape behind you. We love this look because it seems like Shogo and Miho are in their own little world.
Wedding Portrait Idea #4: The Pretty Pose
Take a walking food tour for your engagement shoot
Traditional engagement photos just didn't suit our personality, so instead we had an engagement shoot while doing a walking food tour!
When we hear this wedding portrait idea it makes us sing “I feel pretty, oh so pretty,” from the musical West Side Story. That's how you should feel doing this pose. It's an opportunity to show off that uh-mazing wedding outfit you got on. An excellent wardrobe will inform how you move and feel. So, think of how your ‘fit makes you feel! Play around with your clothes. Here's Miho going for a spin in her wedding dress. It's giving sweet minimalist vibes!
Wedding Portrait Idea #5: Hold your partner's arm
In this wedding portrait idea, one partner might face the camera while the other puts their hand around the arm and looks at them adoringly! It's such a sweet look and a heartwarming way to showcase how you see your partner.
Wait! Before you try these wedding portrait ideas…
The internet can teach you poses for your wedding portraits all day long. But the real secret ingredient to getting gorgeous wedding photos that capture the real you? Hiring a photographer who aligns with your values. If your wedding photographer can make you feel comfortable and safe, you won't even feel like you're having a photoshoot! Case in point, look how much fun Shogo and Mihu are having with Zac the photographer!
A great photographer makes a world of difference
Miho and Shogo loved Zac Wolf Photography so much, they made him a sign (remember how Shogo is a sign painter?). These are absolutely the vibes you should have with your wedding vendor.
Find your perfect nontraditional wedding vendor in our Offbeat Wed Vendor Guide!
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