How To Feel Confident In Front Of The Camera
I’m often told by people that they’re so nervous about getting in front of the camera. And I get it; I really do. The idea that we have to pose and look perfect for photographs can pressure us at times. But I promise it doesn’t need to be the nerve-wracking experience you’re expecting. It can be fun, relaxed and natural. And that’s what I’ll always aim for. But there are a few things you can do to help boost your confidence before your shoot. Here are my top tips on how to feel confident in front of the camera.
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Preparation
As with anything you’re a bit nervous about, preparation will always help calm the nerves because you’re ready for every eventuality. Wasn’t it the Girl Guides who said ‘be prepared’?
What You’re Wearing
A few days before your photo shoot, pick out what you’re going to wear and have it ready. There’s nothing worse than finding out a favourite outfit has a stain or tear thirty minutes before you’re due to leave for your photo session.
Appointments
Plan a hair appointment, your makeup, or anything else you’d like to do in plenty of time before your shoot. If you’re feeling confident about how you look, you’ll immediately be more relaxed in front of the camera.
Back-Up Plans
You can also prepare for possible problems during the shoot itself. Snacks for hungry mouths is a great example. And they can also work well as bribery if need be! A change of clothes or added layers, in case of spills, trips, or a change in weather, helps quell any nerves.
Feeling Nervous?
Have a chat with your photographer before the day of the shoot. I don’t know about you, but turning up to be photographed by someone I’d never spoken to before would make me feel pretty nervous! Ask if you can jump on a call or a video chat to say hi and get to know them a bit before the day itself. It’s always nicer to see a friendly face at your photo shoot, rather than one of a stranger, right?
Know Where You’re Going
And finally, make sure you’ve got the location of the shoot nailed. Print out directions, get the postcode to pop into your Sat Nav or scope out the area before the day. That way, you won’t worry about getting lost or running late because you missed your turn.
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Communication
First, and most importantly, let your family know you’re planning a photo shoot with them! Get them excited, onboard and ready for the shoot, rather than springing it on them as a last-minute surprise.
It’s totally ok to be nervous. Let your photographer know you’re feeling the nerves. Any good photographer will gladly take the time to help you relax. They’ll guide you through the whole shoot and make sure you have the best experience. Believe me, we’d rather take pictures of a relaxed you than you on edge and looking strained!
And, if you’re not sure about how to pose, ask me for direction. I’ll give you gentle guidance anyway, but if something’s not clear, then let me know, and I’ll be more than happy to explain
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Dealing with Nerves
As your photographer, I’ll do everything in my power to help ease your nerves. I’ll ask you questions and share stories; I’ve even been known to pull funny faces if it helps! But there are some great things you can try yourself before coming to the shoot, too.
First of all, remember to breathe! Take slow, deep breaths. Focus on breathing in and filling up your lungs, holding it for a moment and then slowly breathing back out. It’s a great way to calm you and help you be in the moment. Yes, I’m totally into yoga and meditation. Can you tell? On that note, doing meditation before your photo shoot can be helpful. You’ll definitely feel more relaxed. I recommend Calm or Headspace, two meditation apps you can get on your phone.
Another great trick is to force a smile. It’s a simple way to help you relax into things. Smiling actually releases serotonin – the “feel good” hormone! If you force a smile, the natural smile will follow. It’s also the same principle as laughing!
Ultimately, the most valuable thing you can do is realise the photo shoot doesn’t need to be perfect; it just needs to be YOU. Nothing else matters other than that.
When you’re ready to step in front of my camera, oozing confidence, I’ll be glad to photograph you!
Get in touch to start planning your session.
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