How To Feel More Comfortable In Front Of The Camera

We have all been there. You wear your best outfit, you prep in the mirror, but then when your eyes meet the lens you freeze up. How do you escape that dreadful feeling?!

Here are 3 tips that I tell my clients before every photoshoot:

1. Take a few Deep Breaths

Do what you can to practically slow your heart rate and help your body feel calm. Taking a few intentional deep breaths and thinking about the air coming in and filling your lungs can help ground you. Continue breathing and anytime you feel the butterflies kick in, pause and focus on your breath until you feel yourself calm down.

2. Take the focus off of how you look and on to HOw you want to be seen

When all we can think about is our imperfections, those worries show all over our face and body. Instead of letting those thoughts destroy your confidence, think instead about what you DO want to express on your face in these photos. Sounds vague? - Imagine this, you are about to take new headshots to hopefully land a great job, but you are painfully nervous as you step in front of the camera. Instead of focusing

on how you 'hate how you look in pictures', focus on how you want to communicate confidence in this image. You take a deep breath and make confident eye contact with the camera. You listen to the photographer's instructions instead of nervously asking "what should I do with my hands?!" And you smile as you imagine hearing the words that you are hired to your dream job.

This small shift in focus can have a HUGE impact on your facial expression, mannerisms, and body language.

3. Bring what makes you happy!

   
   

   What is it that puts you at ease? Is it music, a good friend, or just knowing it will all be over soon? Maybe sitting at your piano or holding your furry-friend is what will truly make your photos show show your true self. Why not have them in the shoot!

   
   

   Ask your photographer if they can play your favorite song so that you can focus more on the melody than the lights and camera. You can even invite your best friend to the shoot to smile at you and make you laugh if you tense up! Photoshoots are often celebrations of milestones, moments to cherish with family, or portraits that tell a story.

   
   

   When I work with clients I like to lean into the narrative by having them bring those cherished items with them or incorporating activities into the shoot. Let the kids blow bubbles, tell your teen your best eye-roller joke, or let your hand rest on your beloved motorcycle. All of these personal things bring the best out of you and tell a deep and genuine story of who you are - THAT makes you feel comfortable and makes for the best photos.

   
   
   

   

   

   
   

Want to work with me? Let's make it happen!

Click here tell me more about what type of shoot you are looking for and we can get you all set for a photoshoot that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and totally at ease!