5 Tips for Looking Natural in Photos (Even if You're Camera-Shy)

May 19

Because awkward is a vibe—but we’re not letting it show up to your shoot.

Let’s be real: most people feel at least a little weird in front of the camera. You start thinking about your hands, your smile, your posture—do you suddenly not know how to stand like a human anymore?

If this sounds familiar, I promise you're not alone—and you are exactly the kind of person I love working with.

Here are my top 5 go-to tips to help you feel confident, relaxed, and 100% like yourself during your session—even if the thought of being photographed makes you want to hide under a blanket.

💡 First, Let’s Talk About My Approach

I never expect you to show up and know what to do. (That's my job.)

Instead of stiff, staged poses, I use action-based prompts that help bring out real expressions and authentic energy. Think movement, laughter, and playful moments over perfectly placed limbs. Because a photo that actually looks like you is always better than one where you’re trying to be someone else.

And if we ever hit a weird pose? We shake it off—literally. I’ll throw on a new song, we’ll do a quick reset, and get right back into the vibe.

📸 5 Tips for Looking Natural in Front of the Camera

1. Don’t Pose—Do Something

Movement is magic. I’ll prompt you to walk, spin, sway, or fake laugh at your partner (it works every time). These actions bring out your natural rhythm, and the candid moments in between are gold.

Try this: Walk toward me like you just found out a spicy secret and can’t wait to spill it.

2. Bring Your Comfort Crew

Want to feel instantly more at ease? Bring someone you trust—a best friend, your partner, your mom. Whether they're hyping you up off-camera or jumping into a few photos, having your people close helps you feel like yourself.

3. Dress Like You

The best outfits are the ones that make you feel confident and comfy. You don’t have to wear what you think you should—you should wear what makes you feel awesome. Movement-friendly clothes with layers or texture always photograph beautifully (bonus: they add visual interest without trying too hard).

4. Embrace the Goofy Moments

Real talk: some of the best shots come when you’re being a little weird. Making faces, laughing too hard, doing that dumb thing your friend said not to—it’s all fair game. I encourage those moments. Because your personality deserves to be in the frame, too.

5. Let the Music Lead the Mood

I bring a speaker to every session and let you pick the playlist. Music is the fastest way to help people loosen up and feel like themselves. Whether you’re vibing to Beyoncé or Bon Iver, I want you to feel like you’re just dancing it out in good lighting.

🎯 Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a model. You don’t need to know your angles. You don’t even need to feel fully confident before we start. All you need is to show up—and I’ll take care of the rest.

Together, we’ll create images that feel honest, relaxed, and so completely you.