Let’s be real: Not every groom dreams about wedding photos. Some are camera shy, some feel awkward, and some just really want to get to cocktail hour. That’s where we come in.
At Shipwrecked Creative, Ohio’s go-to team for fun, laid-back wedding photography and videography, we don’t believe in stiff, awkward poses. Instead, we use prompts over poses to help grooms loosen up, have fun, and (dare we say it?) actually enjoy the photo part of the day.
Here are our Top 5 favorite prompts for awkward grooms that guarantee real smiles, belly laughs, and the kind of photos that feel like you—not some wedding magazine cutout.
1. “Whisper your favorite fast food order in her sexiest voice.”
We promise—this one works every single time. It’s silly, it’s unexpected, and it pulls the groom right out of “What do I do with my hands?” mode. Plus, it gives us that natural, candid laughter we live for.
Bonus: Works like magic during engagement shoots too!
2. “Race her to that tree… loser has to plan the honeymoon.”
Movement = magic. Grooms who feel awkward standing still usually thrive with a little motion. This playful race gives us genuine energy, spontaneous reactions, and often a hilarious sprint caught mid-air.
And if we’re filming too? Your wedding video in Ohio just got a cinematic slow-mo moment for the highlight reel.
3. “Fix her hair like you’re her glam squad stylist… but you’ve never styled hair before in your life.”
This one is gold for awkward grooms. It gives them something to do with their hands (a major win), sparks laughter, and creates sweet, unexpected moments of connection. Whether he’s gently fluffing her hair or totally overdoing it with dramatic flair, it always ends in a laugh.
It also gives us those up-close, intimate shots that feel playful—not posed.
4. “Pick her up like she’s a sack of potatoes.”
Yes, we mean it. We always check if everyone’s cool with lifting beforehand, but this one usually ends in giggles, spins, or the best kind of goofy chaos.
It’s a favorite for our more reserved guys who just need one silly thing to unlock that playful side.
5. “Stand behind her and try to make her laugh without touching her.”
We love this one for engagement shoots and couple portraits. It takes the pressure off “posing” and focuses on the fun dynamic between you two. Grooms get creative—silly faces, goofy dance moves, whatever works—and we capture every second.
It’s our secret sauce for those “how are they laughing like that?” moments you see in our portfolio.
Why We Use Prompts Instead of Poses
Let’s face it: Traditional poses feel like middle school picture day. At Shipwrecked Creative, we’re all about creating space for real connection. Our wedding photographers and videographers in Ohio specialize in prompts that let you be yourselves.
Whether you’re a groom who’s camera shy, sarcastic, or just along for the ride—our job is to make sure your photos and film feel like you. Unscripted, a little wild, and completely authentic.
Real Grooms. Real Moments. Real Fun.
From engagement shoots in Columbus and Cleveland to wedding days in Hocking Hills, Cincinnati, and beyond, we’ve worked with every kind of groom. The nervous smilers. The hands-in-pocket guys. The ones who swear they “don’t know what to do.” (Spoiler: You don’t have to. That’s our job.)
So if you’re looking for wedding photography or videography in Ohio that’s less awkward posing and more vibes and laughs—you’re in the right place.
Ready to ditch the stiff poses and get photos you actually love?
Let’s Chat
