If the thought of being in front of a camera makes you stiffen up or suddenly forget how to smile like a normal human, you’re not alone. Feeling a little awkward is totally normal, even I still forget how to act like a normal person when I'm in front of the camera, and I’ve been doing this for years!
As someone who spends most of my time behind the lens, I can tell you it feels totally different being on the other side. The moment that camera points at me? My brain goes blank, I forget what to do with my hands, and I suddenly become very aware of how I’m standing. So if that happens to you? You’re in good company.
But here's the good news: looking natural in photos has nothing to do with being a model or knowing your angles, it has everything to do with feeling comfortable and staying present. Whether you're getting portraits taken solo, as a couple, or with your family, here are my go-to tips for loosening up, letting go, and feeling more like yourself in front of the lens.
1. Don’t Think "Perfect" — Think "Present"
Your session isn’t about looking flawless; it’s about capturing what feels real. The more you focus on being in the moment rather than performing for the camera, the more natural and connected your photos will feel. Try to think of it as hanging out, not a performance. Laugh, move, talk, breathe. that’s what makes it feel like you.
2. Move Often (Even a Little!)
Movement is one of the best ways to shake off nerves. Walk, sway, twirl, fix your hair, hold hands, shift your weight, play with your dog. These little motions make your photos feel dynamic and natural, and they help you forget about the camera.
You might think, "Wait, won't it'll be blurry if I move?" Honestly... maybe! And sometimes that’s the whole point. A little blur adds life and energy. We don’t live our lives frozen in perfect poses, we move, we laugh, we trip over our own feet. Life has motion, and that’s what I love capturing.
Plus, movement makes everything feel way less awkward. Instead of standing there wondering what to do with your limbs (same), moving helps you stop thinking so hard and just be. It gives your hands something to do, your body something to focus on, and before you know it, you’re relaxed and in the moment.
I’ll gently guide you through prompts that keep things flowing, whether it’s taking a slow walk, brushing your partner’s arm, or swaying a little while you stand. It doesn’t need to be dramatic. Just enough to keep you feeling like yourself.
3. Wear Something You Feel Good In
Your outfit can make a huge difference. Choose something you feel confident and comfortable in, no stiff collars or anything that makes you want to keep adjusting. If you're comfortable, it shows. If you're not, that shows too.
And don't forget to dress for the weather! If you're too cold, you'll look tense. If you're overheating, you'll look like you want to be anywhere else. Layers are great because they give you options, and breathable fabrics make all the difference in warm weather.
Need help figuring out what to wear? I got you covered: check out my photoshoot outfit guide here.
4. Embrace the Awkward Start
The first 10 minutes almost always feel a little weird, and that’s okay! Everyone needs a few minutes to warm up. I always guide you through prompts and moments that help you ease in without even realizing it.
Honestly, I always tell people to pretend I’m not even there, like I’m a ghost or a fly on the wall. I’m not judging you, and there's absolutely no pressure to "perform." I’m usually the one tossing out the weird prompts anyway, so lean into it, let it feel a little silly, and trust that something great is happening in between all those moments.
5. Focus on Each Other (Not Me)
Unless I specifically ask you to, don’t worry about looking at me or the camera. Seriously. Half the time I’m just creeping around doing my thing, crouching in bushes, backing into trees, quietly cheering you on from behind the lens and I promise you don’t need to acknowledge it.
The best moments happen when you forget the camera exists, when you're laughing at an inside joke, messing with each other, or just genuinely being in the moment. If I want that cute eye contact moment, I’ll totally let you know. Until then, treat me like your quirky third wheel who happens to be holding a camera.
6. Hands, and What to Do With Them
"What do I do with my hands?!" If I had a dollar for every time someone said that during a session, I’d still be editing at midnight, but from a much comfier chair. It’s like the second we step in front of the camera, we suddenly become hyper-aware of our limbs and forget how they normally work.
Here’s the trick: Give them something to do. Hold onto your jacket, play with your hair, loop your thumb through a belt loop, rest a hand on your partner, even fiddle with a necklace. Just give those hands a purpose, anything with intention! Those small movements add natural energy and instantly make your photos feel more relaxed and real.
You're not a mannequin, so don't feel like you have to pose as one!
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be a certain size, have a modeling background, or know your angles to take great photos. You just have to show up as you are, let go a little, and let yourself feel the moment. The rest? That’s what I’m here for.
The beauty of candid photography is that it’s not about being perfect, it’s about being present. It’s about capturing the way you laugh when you’re not thinking about it, the way your eyes squint when you’re smiling for real, or the soft moments in between the big ones. Those are the shots you end up loving the most.
So don’t overthink it. Don’t worry about doing it “right.” Just trust that you already are. Your only job is to show up, be yourself, and have fun with it.
And if you’re still nervous? Just let me know, I’ve got you. :)
