" I don't like having my picture taken."
Sound familiar? If it does your not alone. Plenty of people (Including me. I'm much happier behind the lens!) feel awkward in front of a camera. if your not used to having a lens pointing at you it can be a nerve wracking and intimidating experience. You’re probably worried about a few things: will the photos turn out the way you want them to? Will the photographer capture the same vision that you have in your head? Will you look awkward in the photos? The good news is it dosn't have to be that way. So here are my top tips on how to relax, get comfortable and create those wow factor images!
Choose the right photographer
This is really important. Try to meet with your photographer at least once before the shoot. This gives you a chance to build a rapport and see if you get along. Remember it's much easier to pose in front of someone you know and are comfortable with.
Communicate
I cannot stress this enough. Photographers aren't mind readers, we don't know what you want unless you tell us. I send my clients a questionnaire that allows me get a deeper understanding of their brand aesthetic and values. I also encourage them to think of a basic shot list, i.e photos at a computer, holding a cup of coffee, working at a desk ect. This ensures that our visions are aligned and that we both have a clear idea of how the shoot will go. Of course communication works both ways. If you feel your photographer isn't listening to you or you don't feel comfortable discussing things with them, then its probably time to look elsewhere.
Wear Comfortable clothes
Theres no point showing up in a fabulous outfit if you dont feel comfortable in it. Your shoot isnt the time to completely reinvent yourself, it's a time to showcase both you and your brand. If the clothes you are wearing dont feel right, then you wont feel right and that will come across in the photos.
Relax
This is easier said than done I know but the more you relax in your photos the better they will be. If you are unsure what to do with your hands then try using a prop such as typing at a laptop or writing in a notepad. Instead of looking straight at the camera focus on something or someone else in the room. You could also try playing some relaxing music or having a conversation. Once you are focused on something else rather than the lens you will be surprised how quickly you forget its there.
I hope these tips have helped and inspired you to take the plunge and book a shoot. Investing in prossional brand images will be one of the best decisions you can make in your business. It will help you stand out in your chosen field, create consistency in your social media and most of all give you the confidence to be the best that you can be.