How To Act Natural In Front Of The Camera
If you’ve ever been in front of the camera, odds are you’ve had that weird moment where you actually can’t remember what your hands are for, or what they’re supposed to be doing to look “natural” for the camera click.
I’ve worked with so many wonderful families over the years, and I’ve built up some tools and tips to help you get from shy, awkward, or nervous, to natural and glowing - and I promise you, it’s easier than you think!
Tip #1: Interact
Whether it’s with other people, or simply the space around you, movement is usually your friend. If you’re having your portrait taken, interact with the camera like it’s your best friend - smile directly at it or look directly into it for a more intense effect.
Tip #2: Be yourself, with each other
When it comes to family shoots, I’m looking to capture the relationship between the subjects, so the best advice I can give you is to engage with your loved ones as you normally would: kissing, hugging, tickling, laughing together, jumping, running, doing an activity, or even just looking at each other.
Tip #3: You have joints, bend them
We want to move away from stiff limbs and torsos, and embrace a little more movement. This helps with looking and feeling natural. Without a bit of movement, we end up in mannequin territory.
Tip #4: Wear something comfortable
And something that makes you feel good. Even if you’re dressing up a bit for the shoot, make sure you’re at ease. There’s nothing worse than the added discomfort of your outfit to first-time nerves.
Tip #5: Leave the cheese in the fridge
It’s a tactic that doesn’t provide genuine results. We’re looking to capture the magic of a smile that lights up the entire face, and unless you really feel that way about cheese, those prompted grins tend to land a bit flat in photos.
Tip #6: Let them be themselves
When it comes to photographing the little people, it’s essential to let them be themselves during the photo session. Kids will be kids, and however your little one usually is, is what we want to capture on the day. Let them run, play and explore, and trust me to catch their very best moments on film.
I will be the first to tell you that I get it! It can feel weird and unfamiliar to pose in front of a camera, but I’m here to help you through it. Besides, telling first time clients to “be natural!” can be incredibly confusing, because how are you supposed to know what that means if you’ve never done it before? The simplest advice I can give you is to have fun, smile and don’t worry about posing perfectly. Your job is to be you, mine is to capture your magic. My favourite shots usually happen when you aren’t expecting it, anyway 😉
Ready to book your shoot with me? Let’s chat!