Do you feel comfortable in front of a camera? So many people, particularly women, struggle to feel comfortable when their picture is being taken. Not only do they dread the actual process of having a photograph taken, they worry about the resulting photographs as well.
I’m one of those rare people who actually likes having my photo taken. This does not mean I’m incredibly vain. I definitely have features I really do not like (my nose always seems huge to me and don’t get me started on my legs). However, over the years I have come to realise that I enjoy the experience of posing for photographs. I’ve also realised just how important it is to put myself in the picture.
How to Feel Comfortable In Front Of A Camera – My Top Tips
For Professional Photographs, Work With Someone Who Makes You Feel Comfortable
If you are having a headshot or brand photographs taken, be sure to work with a photographer who makes you feel comfortable. Always interview your photographer to be sure you are on the same wavelength. It’s okay to interview more than one!
Make sure the person you choose is happy to meet before the shoot (not just on the day) so you can discuss the finer details of what you would like.
I work regularly with Tara Taylor Photography and Terry Joshi Images for both personal and professional shoots, and recommend them both very highly.
Wear Something You Feel Good In
The old saying “when you feel good you look good” still rings true today. Wearing clothes that make us feel comfortable physically and emotionally makes it easier to feel comfortable in front of a camera.
Remember Others See Us Differently Than We See Ourselves
Not only do most people look at us with much kinder eyes, they actually see us differently. This is because the image you see when you look in the mirror is different – opposite in fact – to the one you see in a photograph. This can be disconcerting because our brain is used to seeing a mirror image. It can often automatically and unconsciously be critical of the image in a photograph so bear this in mind when you look at photos of yourself.
Furthermore, we are often extremely critical of ourselves, noticing things other people miss completely. As I mentioned before, I’m extremely self conscious about my nose and my legs. However, I have never had someone mention either of these things when they looked at a photograph of me. In most cases, other people simply don’t notice the things that bother you most.
The Camera Does Not Have To Add 10 Pounds
Don’t let this commonly used phrase put you off having your photograph taken. A professional photographer should know the correct lenses to use for photographs to help you look your best.
A camera can make you look heavier – actually wider – if the photographer uses a lens with the incorrect focal length. On the opposite end of the scale, certain lenses can actually make you look thinner.
If you are concerned, it’s a good idea to talk to your photographer about this issue before the shoot.
Breathe
Take a few deep breaths before you have your photograph taken, and remember to keep breathing when it is being taken. Not only will it make you look better, you will feel better too.
Use a Prop
Unless you are being photographed for a headshot, it is totally okay to hold something in the photograph. This can really help relax you. Try holding a pen or a teacup, or even a glass of wine. Your brain will be occupied with the logistics of holding on to the thing, and less preoccupied with your anxiety.
Tricks Of The Trade
When I was modelling many years ago I learned a few tricks for looking good in photographs that still help me today. I hope they will help you too.
- Put your tongue on the roof of your mouth to help tighten your facial muscles. It’s tricky to do this when you are smiling, but once you get the hang of it, it really works.
- Be sure to smile with your eyes as well as your mouth. Let the corners of your eyes crinkle a little. It looks far more natural and appealing.
- Lift your chin slightly so that your neck looks longer.
- Stand up straight.
- Relax your shoulders. “Don’t wear your shoulders as earrings”, as my agent used to say!
- If you aren’t super smiley, don’t feel you have to produce a big smile. Think about how you would look at a friend when they walk into the room and let that natural smile be your expression.
Have Fun
Having your photograph taken can be a lot of fun if you let it. Whether a photo is being taken by a friend or a professional, they want you to look good and be happy with it. Work together with the person taking the photograph to get the best shots possible.
Very Powerful and Inspirational message, I love the effect the choices have when I am talking and helping others get through their Day and Their Weekly Endevors.
Thank You So Much, I am Stuck on the Recipies and the guidance that you and Your Family Have posted and messaged about how to get by.
P.S.; I’d Like a Copy of that book youre Writing!!!!
Thank you, David! It really is amazing how we can help others in so many ways, and is so lovely the way you do that. Thank you so much for all your support. We truly appreciate it.
When the book is published I will definitely ensure you get a signed copy with my compliments !!
I appreciate these tips because I am definitely uncomfortable in front of the camera. I’ll try the “use a prop” tip as soon as possible. It makes such good sense! 🙂
I’m so glad the post resonated with you, Lisa. I hope the prop tip works as well for you as it has for me 🙂 It is definitely one of my favourite ways to feel comfortable in photographs. 🙂
I like the prop tip; maybe that’s why brides often carry flowers?
And please may I steal that quote, “Don’t wear your shoulders as earrings” ?? It applies to so much more than just photo sessions… like how to notice when we’re carrying too much stress.
I would love to be a fly on the wall at one of your photo shoots one day. 🙂
That’s a good point, Pauline. A bouquet can definitely give you something to concentrate on and hide shaking hands if one is nervous! Absolutely, please feel free to steal that quote. It always makes me smile. You would be very welcome at one of my photo shoots – that would be fun! 🙂
So many helpful tips in here! I definitely do not like being in front of the camera, especially if someone else is taking my picture. I do all of my own photos with my photo, camera timer and a clicker in a spot free from others – it really cuts down on my anxiety.
Thank you, Alexandra. That’s great you can do your own photos. I think photos are always better when we are more relaxed. Sadly, I’m not very co-ordinated when it comes to timers and remote controls! I can just about manage a selfie 😉
These are some fine tips. Can’t wait to try the ‘tongue on the roof ‘ tip soon.
Thank you, Shiju! That is a lovely compliment, especially as you are such a good photographer.
These are great tips and a great message. I always chuckle a little when someone protests about getting a photo taken–it’s not like we don’t all know what they look like, anyway! And sometimes, in an effort not to draw attention to themselves, they draw more. But I’ve known people who grieved because they didn’t have many pictures of a loved one because that person didn’t like having a photograph taken. Tips like these will help folks feel more at ease.
Thank you so much, Barbara 🙂