Seven tips from Barbara, owner of Blip Photography, a branding and family photographer from Houston.
1.Know your favorite angles
You most likely already know your favorite angle, but in case you don’t, stand in front of a mirror and observe. Is there an angle you really like. Make sure to move around.
Another helpful way to pose your favorite angle is when you’re in front of a camera (and your picture is being taken) pretend you’re about to take a selfie. I know it might sound funny, but trust me, this way you’ll position yourself how you usually like yourself in photos. ,
2. Wear something comfortable and flattering
When you’re choosing your outfits for photos, there are many things to keep in mind. But i would say most importantly choose something that is comfortable, and you can move in easily. We don’t want to add to the stress of picture taking by having a piece of clothing that will make you less relaxed.,
3. Ignore the rest of the world and have fun
This is not an easy task, cause so often we get in our head and feel like everyone is watching. But trust me when I say, people don’t care as much as you think. Try to focus on your photographer instead. It’s ok to feel shy, and it’s on your photographer to help you relax. But it can be helpful to focus on the task at hand. Why are you taking these photos, are you celebrating something, are they for your business, your family? Focus on these things, instead on the fact that maybe someone is watching you.
4. Gather inspiration
Gathering inspiration beforehand can be really helpful. Not only will this give you some ideas for what you like, it will also help your photographer. Never copy, but be inspired. You can create a look and feel of the images you want out of your session, by creating an inspirational board, you can use Pinterest for this.
5. Talk to your photographer
When choosing your branding photographer, make sure to get to know them. Are they active on social media, do they have a blog, visit the about page on their website. This way it will be much easier to connect with them on the day of your session.
Once you are in front of the camera, you want to communicate to your photographer how you are feeling. If a pose feels awkward to you, or you are uncomfortable in a position, be vocal about it, this will help you get more natural looking images, and your photographer will appreciate the feedback.
6. Demonstrate good posture
Always stand up straight. This will help you look more confident and happy. If slouching and bad posture is something you struggle with, make sure to mention it to your photographer and ask them to remind you to stand straight.
7. Keep moving
Some of the best poses aren’t poses, but movements. Make slow movements, instead of standing still, to capture a more natural look in the photos.
I hope these tips will help you feel more confident in front of the camera. You can always reach out to me if you have any questions or are looking for a photographer. I hang out most of the time on my Instagram @blip.photography .