5 Tips to Feel Less Awkward in Front of the Camera

Let me start off by saying this: the first 5-15 minutes are always awkward! Unless you are a professional model, it will be weird getting your pictures taken. Why do you think I prefer to be behind the lens? As soon as someone tries to take a picture of me, I get super nervous and start making goofy faces. It’s hard to feel and look comfortable in front of the camera. Even my daughter Madison who gets photographed a lot and likes getting her pictures taken needs a few minutes every time to warm up. So rest assured you are not alone in this. But there are a few things you can do to make the transition easier and faster. So let’s get to into my 5 tips you can start implementing today to feel less awkward in front of the camera:

1. Pick a photographer that you like

I’m not just talking style here. Of course, you should take the time to look at their portfolio and pick someone who shoots and edits with the style you like. Photography is an art form and there are many different styles out there. Bright and airy, warm and vintage, dark and moody just to name a few. But behind the artist is a real person. So you need to read the website, especially the about me, and check out their social media. Your photographer’s voice is in their writing. (bonus if they have behind-the-scenes footage.) Do they sound energetic or quiet, outgoing or shy, excited or calm, professional or goofy, mature or youthful,…? You will quickly find out if they are someone you want to spend time with. If you don’t vibe with the person who’s directing your poses and pushing the shutter button it will take you a lot longer to feel less awkward in front of the camera.

2. Get to know each other before the shoot

I would highly recommend having a conversation, either in person or via phone, with your photographer before your session. You can brainstorm ideas for your shoot (location, outfits, props,..) and ask questions. You also get a chance to get to know each other a little bit. I promise you it’s way easier to twist yourself into a pretzel in front of someone and believe that person when they say “Trust me, this looks great!” if you know them at least a little bit. And I go even further: Avoid booking with someone who doesn’t do a phone or in-person consultation! You want to book someone who cares about the people they meet and not just the money they make.

3. Make your photographer your ally

You are probably thinking: “What does that mean?” I’m so glad you asked! Let me explain: We all have insecurities about our bodies. Some more some less, but we all have them. If there is something you are worried about when it comes to your pictures (arms, thighs, stomach, thinning hair,…) please let your photographer know! And tell them about your best parts too. Love your eyes, the left side of your face, or the right, your shoulders, legs,… . Tell us! You can do this in your questionnaire, or consultation, or at the beginning of your session. Here’s the fact: we want you to love your final photos! we want you to look good in your pictures! Real good! If you tell us your insecurities and your assets, we can look out for you. We know how to emphasize and deemphasize areas of the body in pictures. We might be on two sides of the camera, but we are on the same team.

4. Trust your photographer

Now this is much easier if you did the 3 steps above. But even if, let’s say, someone else booked a session for you, I’d still urge you to give an advance payout of trust. Look at it this way: This might be your first time getting professional pictures taken, but it is not your photographer’s first time taking pictures. So allow us to direct you. We know which poses look good and which light makes your skin glow. And yes, some of the poses will feel weird. It’s not how we normally stand, sit, or move, but those are usually the ones that look best on camera. So be open to trying out some things that are a little goofy and trust the process.

5. Bring a friend and/or a prop

This one is especially for those getting pictures taken by themselves. What’s the first thing most people think when in front of the camera: I don’t know what to do with my hands. Your photographer will direct your hand posing, but especially in the beginning it can help to have a prop to hold onto. It also helps you relax if brought something that speaks to and about your personality or interest. I have a whole other post about props here (it’s mainly aimed at seniors, but works for everyone else too). And if you bring a friend or family member, bring the person you are the most yourself around, the one that makes you smile and laugh. Also, please let your photographer know you are planning on bringing someone to the session.

So these are my 5 tips to feel less awkward in front of the camera quicker and therefore get more beautiful pictures that you love. I promise if you book a session with me I’ll do everything I can to make you feel comfortable and get you relaxed and laughing. But let me assure you again: even then and even if you follow all of these steps, the first few minutes will be weird. Embrace the awkward!

P.S.: I have a post about posing so you look your best in any picture coming, so check back soon.