5 great ways to feel more comfortable at your shoot

Not surprisingly, most of us don’t feel 100% comfortable having our photos taken.

Add to that the fact that when you have a professional shoot, its likely the first time you’ve done it (not counting your wedding… cos you were clearly full of love and champagne that day!!), and its probably out of your comfort zone.

And I can totally relate! I’m a bit of a worrier, and I definitely lack confidence in front of the camera.

However after most photo shoots, my clients often tell me that it was easier than they had expected.

Mainly because I made them feel comfortable!

So to get that special connection (that’s vital for engaging photos) there are a few things I do, and some important things for you to think about too!

Ask lots of questions

I’m going to ask you lots of questions to see how comfortable you’ll be in front of the camera. This is before we even get to taking a photo.

But more importantly what do you need to know to feel more comfortable?

Ask everything you can think of, anything thats worrying you, anything you dont understand.

Ask lots of questions!

Be honest

If there is something that worries you, or a part of your body that you’re self conscious of – then let me know.

Honestly.

It could just be that you think you have a better side. Or it could be that you’re carrying a few lockdown pounds and would rather not have your tummy on display.

They’re your photos!

Plan & prepare

Prepare what you’re going to wear and what props you need before the shoot.

Try on your outfits to make sure you feel comfortable (and they fit) and even share them with me if you want to.

When the shoot arrives you won’t need to worry about what you’re wearing and can concentrate on enjoying yourself.

Get into Character

I’ve found that sometimes, pretending to be a character really helps how you portray yourself in the photos.

Imagine you’re Beyoncé…how would she stand? She wouldnt be hiding, she’d be strong and confident.

Even thinking about a story you’re trying to get across can help.

For instance.. maybe you’re wanting people to see a confident, strong women who coaches other women.

  • How would that woman stand?
  • Would she make direct eye contact?
  • Would she be smiley or serious?
  • Would she be demure or powerful?

This HONESTLY works wonders!

Don’t forget the music

Music can be great a photoshoot. It helps relax everyone and be such a mood booster.

So perhaps create yourself a little playlist or listen to one of mine!

Thanks

Also, when you’re ready, here are three ways that I can help you:

1) Visit my blog for tips on VISIBILITY.

Every week I discuss strategies to improve your visibility, get over your fear of visibility and my latest shoots.  Read here

2) Plan a bespoke photoshoot.

We can plan a shoot based on what you actually need (read more) or you could join me at a Branding Day.

3) Join ‘Visibility School’.

Visibility school is a membership group where you get 12 months of photoshoots, a fab little Facebook group and a Visibility Toolkit (new for 2021 members) . Read more

Filter blog posts

Browse the categories

Business

Brand Photography

B-roll

Hi There!

Meet Maryanne

I’m a 40 (ahem something…) year old Yorkshire woman.

I’ve been self employed for 10 years (and a photographer for 18) and I totally understand how difficult it is to be visible in business.

Whether that’s because of a lack of self confidence, feeling a bit frumpy or the physical side effects of peri-menopause (hot sweats and forgetfulness anyone) – I promise you I’ve seen it all and still get great photos at every photoshoot.

I honestly feel so honoured when people book me, because they believe that I really want the best outcome for you. There’s no point having a fancy photoshoot if it doesn’t feel authentic to you.

My aim for every shoot is to get photos and video that you actually want to share… and I’ll be there in the side lines cheering you on!