The ultimate list of Posing prompts for couples photo sessions

Keep scrolling to the bottom to view the entire guide in a powerpoint format

So you decided to book a candid-feeling photo session, but your'e worried about it actually feeling candid? Is there any way to prepare for a candid photo session?! YES OF COURSE. Keep reading!

A few years ago I started approaching my photo sessions with a cinematic meets candid meets editorial approach. I wanted couples to feel like their story was being told, but from an elevated cinematic standpoint.

One of the ways I helped couples feel like main characters who are comfortable in front of a camera was through my Posing Prompts guide. And after really testing out a bunch of prompts and seeing what worked with the majority of couples, I put together The Ultimate List of Posing Prompts for Couples Photo Sessions. You'reeeeee welcome, friends.

And, I know-- do we even like the word "posing"? If it sort of turns you off, then you and I are probably a good creative fit, because I don't like that word very much either. I want things to feel natural, fun, and at times, I like to throw in a few editorial prompts to make it all feel like it could be a "day in the life" meets "vogue editorial". It's my favorite little mashup of making art with photos.

I find that most couples want that candid feel but still need direction. And posing prompts do just that-- they really give you something to do beyond the typical couples prompts (ie. hold hands, give her a spin around, walk toward me, walk away from me, etc). We want something that gives you autonomy to be yourselves.

At times, we might even make your prompt a part of a scene (don't worry, it's not overly complicated, and it's fully directed by me!). The best part of creating scenes, is that you get a chance to do them a second or third time, just like they do in the movies, so if you feel like you didn't get it right the firs time (perfectionists, I'm looking at you), then you get to do it again! And everytime you get to do a prompt or scene, you're just getting to connect with your partner more and more. And that's the point of my photo sessions--- intentional time to connect both physically and emotionally.

Below is my posing prompt guide! It includes prompts that will have you chatting and it includes prompts that will leave you two admiring one another without words. It's one of my favorite things I've ever put together. I hope it helps you as you collaborate with either me (or another photographer) to create a cinematic session.

Which prompt do you love most? I'd love to hear how these helped you during your photo session!

As always, I know photo sessions are investments, and as your photographer, I want you to feel THE MOST prepared and erase as many nerves as we possibly can before your session.

Happy "posing"!

XOXO Stacie