Self-aligning optical connectors, systems, and methods for connecting optically-transmissive elements are disclosed. In one embodiment, a connector includes a first component, a second component connected to the first component, and an optomechanical element. The optomechanical element is positioned adjacent and between said first and second components such that a portion of the optomechanical element is exposed to a leakage light when the first and second components are misaligned. The exposed portion includes a photosensitive material configured to at least attempt to change a dimension when exposed to the leakage light. In operation, the optomechanical element exerts an alignment force on at least one of the first and second components tending to align the first and second components when the exposed portion of the optomechanical element is exposed to the leakage light.