This is a guest post by STG Recommended Vendor, Sandra Orrego. The founder of Lucky Elevens, Sandra Orrego is an editorial wedding photography studio based in Madrid. Her style blends fashion-inspired direction with candid storytelling, creating images that feel both effortless and timeless. A restless traveller and aesthete at heart, Sandra has photographed weddings across Europe, India and Chile. She believes that wedding photography isn’t just about documenting — it’s about creating a space where couples feel free, playful, and utterly themselves.
We’ve all seen them: those wedding photos that look like they were lifted straight out of Vogue. Effortless, chic, a little playful… the kind of images that make you wonder, how do they look so natural and yet so editorial at the same time?
Here’s the funny thing: when couples first contact me, 90% of the time they’re terrified.
They say, “But we don’t know how to pose or act in front of the camera — it looks like all your couples do!”
Here’s the spoiler: they don’t. None of them. It’s not about knowing how to move. It’s about trusting the process. It’s about setting the mood, being open-minded, and having fun. Because yes — sometimes the things that feel a little ridiculous in the moment end up looking absolutely incredible in the photos.
And with Rosh Hashanah — the Jewish New Year — just around the corner, it feels like the perfect time to talk about fresh starts, and how to approach your couple’s session with an open mind.
So, as a wedding photographer, how do we get there? Let me walk you through my process.
1. Trust, trust, trust
This is the foundation of everything. If you want an amazing photo story at the end of your day, you need to trust your photographer. We know what we’re doing. So please — trust me on this one.
2. Build a mood board
Before the big day, I encourage my couples to create a mood board. Think of it as our creative playground. And it’s not just weddings — bring me the fashion spreads you love, that random portrait you saved on Instagram, even a music video if it sparks something.
Because here’s the thing: if you only look at weddings, your photos will look like… weddings. But if we pull from fashion, art, and culture, suddenly we’re creating a vibe that’s yours — stylish, editorial, and miles away from cookie-cutter Pinterest boards.
3. Your outfit sets the stage
No two dresses are the same. And the way your gown photographs depends hugely on its cut and fabric.
A figure-hugging mermaid or fit-and-flare silhouette creates a completely different energy to a flowy chiffon A-line or a sleek sheath gown. A dramatic ball gown will have its own set of possibilities too — think sweeping, cinematic movements.
That’s why I always ask about the details. I need to know the shape, the fabric, the train, whether you’re wearing a veil… because all of this defines the kind of movements and shots that will feel natural. Trust me — nothing kills an editorial vibe faster than trying to sprint through a meadow in a mermaid dress.
4. Forget everything else (really, everything)
Your guests, the cocktail hour, the DJ that hasn’t started yet… forget them. For this moment, it’s just the three of us: you, your new spouse (yay), and me. That’s all that matters right now.
5. Surrender control (yes, really)
The best photos happen when you let go. I’ll ask you to do things that may feel silly in the moment — tilt your head back a little too far, walk in circles, murmur something nonsensical in your partner’s ear, exaggerate your steps, bump your hips together. It might feel absurd in the moment — but on camera? Pure magic.
If you try to micromanage every pose, the result looks stiff. But when you surrender a little? That’s when the editorial energy flows.
6. Flirty, playful, affectionate — always
Editorial doesn’t mean serious. In fact, the chicest images often come from being playful and affectionate.
And yes, sometimes it feels corny. Couples tell me: “I don’t want to do that, it’s too cheesy!” Babe, I know. But here’s the thing: I’m not after the actual cheek kiss or shoulder kiss. I’m after the in-betweens — the moment you burst into laughter, the way you look at your partner like, you’re ridiculous and I love you. That’s where the gold is.
7. Movement over posing
More is more — at least when it comes to movement. Stillness is the enemy of effortless photos. Walking, adjusting your veil, leaning into each other — these micro-movements (and sometimes not-so-micro) create elegance and flow.
Think less ‘mannequin,’ more ‘music video’ — or even the hora. It’s not about whether you actually dance it, but about creating movement that feels joyful and unpolished — the kind that makes you laugh without trying
By this point, most of my couples are vibing with it. They realise it’s not about standing still and looking perfect — it’s about moving, being a little goofy, and actually enjoying it. Because yes, it’s your wedding day, and you’re supposed to have fun.
8. Don’t aim for perfect — aim for presence
Perfection is boring. You know that friend who says, “this is my good side”? Or the one who insists, “don’t shoot me from the side, I hate my nose”? Forget that. Seriously — it’s absolute crap.
What makes your photos unforgettable is emotion: joy, nerves, intimacy, that split second when you forget the camera even exists. That’s what gives your images soul.
So stop worrying about looking perfect — and start feeling like you. That’s what makes the photos timeless. And above all: enjoy. Always enjoy.
And you know what? You’ll be surprised. Trust me — you’ll end up loving the photos, and wondering why you ever acted so awkward in front of the camera before.
Final Thought
The secret to editorial-worthy wedding photos isn’t really a secret: it’s trust, playfulness, and a willingness to let go. Do that, and your wedding album won’t look like a set of pictures — it’ll look like a fashion story. One where you just happen to be the stars.
And yes, you’ll look amazing. Like you’ve never seen yourselves before.
But here’s the thing: you need a photographer you actually like — someone who gets you, who you connect with. Because in the end, your wedding album isn’t just about looking beautiful. It’s about capturing the simcha — the joy and celebration — of your day.
If you’re a Jewish or Jew-ish bride-to-be, you’ll want to join Smashing The Glass’ Brides Club. Guided by the world’s number 1 Jewish wedding expert, Karen Cinnamon, Brides Club is the private community for Jewish and Jew-ish brides that removes wedstress and indecision and gives you what you need to plan with confidence during these uncertain times. Join our Brides Club here.