How to Look and Feel Confident (and not Awkward) During A Photo Shoot
The first time or even the hundredth time in front of the camera can often bring on some nervous jitters (or lots of anxiety) for most people. If you're not a professional model, it's not every day that you're in front of a camera lens. It's NORMAL that you'd be nervous or wouldn't know exactly what to do. This is what this blog post and easy bullet points is for, because after thousands of Paris photo sessions, this professional photographer has a lot to say (and share!).
Posing people and making you feel comfortable in any given situation has become second nature to us BUT there are certain real life and easy things that you can do to help you feel more comfortable in front of a camera:
Practice makes perfect - The more you practice being in front of the camera, the more comfortable you will feel. Try taking photos of yourself at home, or even just practicing posing in front of the mirror. Ok, maybe this feels weird the first time you do it but it really is a great start to helping you slowly ease your way into being comfortable and shaking any nervous ticks.
Not everyone is comfortable in their own skin (isn't that a lifelong journey anyway?) but knowing how YOU like yourself to look by posing in front of a mirror can really help you understand how to move your body. Then, once you're in front of our lens during your photo shoot, we'll go deeper into what to do.
We've spent a LOT of time over the last decade making sure we know the best way to pose each body type. A common mistake is just standing with your legs together almost military style. Try moving your legs apart, a bit like how you would stand if you were chit chatting with your BFF. Put your weight onto one leg (not like a flamingo, more like just if you were hanging out). Already you look more relaxed!
2. Relax your body - Tension in your body can show up in your photos, so try to relax and let go of any tightness or stiffness. Take deep breaths and shake out your arms and legs to help loosen up. So often, right after posing our clients we'll take a strategic pause and ask you to take a breath and relax your shoulders. It's one of the easiest ways for your body to find a sweet spot that feels more comfortable within a pose.
I know, I know, the whole thing might be totally OUT of your comfort zone to start with but it doesn't mean you should be dwelling on it. Literally the worst thing you would do is say something like "This is so awkward", it's really only awkward if you make it awkward. If you're able to let go a little and try something new, it can make ALL the difference.
3. Choose your wardrobe carefully (We have a great blog post on what to wear for a Paris Photo Session!)-
What you wear can have a big impact on how you feel and how you come across in photos. Choose clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable, and avoid anything that is too tight or constricting. Wear things that make you stand out, but still feel like YOU. Having a Paris photo shoot is often a reason to do a little shopping before. If you don't have time, do some "shopping" inside your wardrobe. Start by choosing a favorite outfit where you feel like a million bucks.
Going into a photo session with confidence can often start with how you're feeling inside your clothing. Anything thats itchy or you always have to keep adjusting is probably not the right choice, even if it does look cute. If you're doing family photos, this applies to everyone and ESPECIALLY kids who will truly melt down if they aren't comfortable or are too cold in their outfits. It's an important way to prep for success. High school kids often have their own style, embrace your kids how they are RIGHT NOW. It's okay if in a few years they change style or looks, you want to celebrate who they are in this moment. It becomes this affirmation that you love them in all of their ever changing forms.
4. Work with a Paris photographer you trust - One of the most important things and often a defining factor of success is to work with a photographer who you trust and feel comfortable with. Look for someone (ask your close friends or a family member for recommendations!) who has experience working with people who are new to photography, and who can help you feel at ease and guide you through the process. Skill level and that you feel like you can connect with the team is so important.
The first step to finding a photographer is often asking around for references or simply googling what you want! You'll find a ton of information on how to find and book a Paris photographer online. You want someone who will give you great tips on your shoot day and before. You want to see great lighting on their portfolio online and on their social media and of course you'll want to see the creative ways they work with each client and with all types of weather.
5. Use positive self-talk - This is SO IMPORTANT. The way you talk to yourself has a big impact on how you feel and how you come across in photos. Try using positive self-talk to boost your confidence and calm your nerves. Self affirmations can sometimes feel funny but even thinking little things like: "I look great today!", "Today is going to be fun", "All I need to do is be me", can completely change how you feel about the session. It sets the tone for the day. Saying things like this to your family too can really set the intention of the session. "Hey guys, the biggest thing I want you to remember for today is that whatever we do or are asked to do, we are going to have fun with it." When you are actively participating and showing up with positivity, the entire session changes.
6. Make eye contact with the camera - Making eye contact with the camera can help you feel more connected and engaged. Try to focus on the lens and imagine that you're having a conversation with the person behind it. Or even better, the person behind the camera should be having a conversation with you! We are talkers. So often during a photo session we first start with conversation even before picking up the camera. We love learning about each client and are all about the talking! Even if you're camera shy, talking and making eye contact helps boost your confidence and really make that connection you want in a great way.
7. Think about your body language - Your body language can convey a lot of information, so try to use it to your advantage. Stand up straight, make open hand gestures, and try to avoid crossing your arms or looking down. Simple tweaks like leaning towards the camera (slightly) instead of leaning away from it can make you look more friendly and less scared. It also becomes more flattering too. Often times the first take we do is always something with movement. We love walking as it helps get those first nervous jitters and emotions out! Often with body language it's the simple things that take the portraits to the next level. Things like putting a hand in your pocket, or around your daughter. Little movements of connection bring a portrait from "stiff" to "relaxed and connected". If you don't feel like you'll know what to do with your hands, sometimes adding something to your portraits can help. We love heading to a café.
8. Try different poses and expressions - Experiment with different poses and facial expressions to see what feels most comfortable and natural for you. Don't be afraid to try something new and see how it feels. We want to celebrate all of you. Smiles are amazing but let yourself also have different expressions.
9. Take breaks - If you start to feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable, don't be afraid to take a break. Step away from the camera for a few minutes, grab a drink of water, and give yourself a chance to recharge. This doesn't often happen during our sessions because they're not so long and also we naturally have breaks between locations and love to do a lot of variety so we tend to be walking and talking a lot. But if you need it, take it!
10. Remember that it's never about perfection - Photography is about capturing real, authentic moments, so don't worry about trying to be perfect. Just take a breath, have fun, and enjoy the new experience.
Any other tips you might have? Please post them below! If you’re looking for a Paris Family Photographer, you’re in the right place. Get in touch via our contact form for more info! We were voted best Paris Portrait photographer by Expatriates Magazine!