A self-aligning connector for connecting fiber-optic cables including a first component connected to a first cable of the cables during use of the connector and a second component connected to the first component and a second cable of the cables during use of the connector. The connector further includes an optomechanical element positioned adjacent and between the first component and the second component during use of the connector. The optomechanical element includes a photosensitive material that changes a dimension when exposed to light during use of the connector and a portion of the optomechanical element protrudes into a light path passing through the connector when the first component and the second component are misaligned. The optomechanical element changes the dimension and moves the second component with respect to the first component to align the connector when the protruding portion is exposed to the light during use of the connector.