Tips to Overcome Camera Shyness

Looking at my Instagram feed, quite a few of those little squares feature my face, so it might be a little hard to believe, but I’m incredibly shy and awkward in front of the camera. I always joke, “what am I supposed to do with my hands?”

All this to say, I feel you! I know what it feels like to feel on the spot and totally unsure of what “acting natural” is supposed to mean.

As a photographer, I know for sure, I’m not the only one, and neither are you. Most of us aren’t professional models and aren’t trained to pose in front of camera. Fear not, friend! I’ve got you.

5 Tips to Overcoming Camera shyness:

1. Make friends with your photographer

Seriously, how much less daunting is it knowing you have a friend on the other side of the camera? Someone who just gets you? This is my approach with all my lovely clients (personal branding, weddings, newborns). I try to get to know them before their session giving us lots to talk and joke about on the day. My clients tend to be less nervous and are much quicker to warm up to the camera.

2.  Be yourself

I can’t stress this one enough. The whole purpose of a personal branding session is to showcase YOU. If you’re wearing clothes that aren’t your style, at a location that doesn’t speak to you, and posing in ways that don’t feel natural to you, then you will no doubt feel awkward and uncomfortable. In the words of Genie from Aladdin, “Just bee yourself”.

3. Feel your best

Make an appointment to have your hair and make-up done professionally. Have a manicure. Wear your favourite clothes. The better you feel about yourself going into the session, the more confident you’ll feel during.

4. Avoid crowded areas

If you’re really feeling shy, I would avoid a location that is crowded and filled with curious eyes to watch you. You really don’t want to draw attention when you’re already feeling shy. At the very least, have a busy location be second or third on your list, giving you a chance to warm up to being photographed. You’ll often find you’ll completely forget about everyone else in the vicinity.

5. Have some props

Wrapping it up with our hand problem from earlier – the best solution? Incorporate props. Ask yourself which items represent your work. Perhaps it’s a Camera/Keys/Contracts/Essential Oils/Utensils/Flowers/Scissors? You can also include props that tell the story of who you are, like your favourite snack, a hat, sun glasses etc.

Interested in booking your own personal branding session with me? Find all the info here: Personal Branding Experience!