Your style and Posing
Posing for photos can be one of the most difficult parts of a photoshoot. When taking photos, it is important to think about what style, vibe, and look you have in mind. When you have the idea of what style you have in mind, then you can begin looking for a photographer who emulates what you are looking for.
After you find the photographer you are looking for it is imperative to feel comfortable with the poses you want to do. If you are uncomfortable and stiff the camera will capture that. Taking photos and doing poses will not accomplish a natural and relaxed look if you do not feel natural or relaxed. A way to help with this is getting to know your photographer, and what styles they specialize in. Read reviews, lurk their socials, see how they interact and engage to see if you feel confident in their style and with their character.
How to feel more comfortable
If you have never done a photoshoot before, it is common to feel uncomfortable and silly while posing and taking photos. There is a pressure that many people get when taking photos. The pressure of performing and the fear that you may be doing something wrong. As a photographer, I want to make it clear that there is no wrong way to look or pose during a photoshoot. If you have a pose you love, show the inspiration and request to do it. If something makes you uncomfortable, say so. During your shoot, the photographer will have poses and ideas, but it is up to you to say what you do and do not like.
Before a photoshoot, think of the things that you would dread doing. Think about what you are not a fan of. These are things to make note of to avoid. If you are not outdoorsy, don't agree to go to a location that requires a hike to get to. If you hate being in a crowd, go somewhere secluded. Photographers can provide suggestions, but they can not read your mind. Make your photos feel like you and make the requests to ensure you are getting the photos you want back.
Steps to make the photoshoot process more comfortable for you:
- If there is a pose you hate or something you do not feel comfortable with, tell your chosen photographer before the shoot. If confrontation is not your strong suit, this is the best way to make sure you don't put yourself in an uncomfortable scenario. Good photographers will respect your boundaries, and if their reaction is disrespectful and makes you uncomfortable, then you have prevented an even more uncomfortable scenario by telling them your needs ahead of time.
- Wear clothes you actually feel comfortable in. If you hate wearing dresses, don't wear one to your shoot. If you would not wear a suit and tie comfortably, don't wear one to your shoot. When you are booking a shoot you should be wearing something you feel comfortable and confident in. If you don't feel confident in your outfit, it will show in your photos. Lots of photographers send out style guides. This is a great opportunity to look through ideas of outfits, and work with the photographer for what will look good and make you confident.
- Ask to bring a prop. Props are a great way to get your mind off the stress of a pose. Props could include a book, your bag, a watering can. Anything that keeps your hands busy and your mind off the stress that can come with a photoshoot. Plus bringing a prop is a great way to add more photo options and sparks a confident you.
Out of these steps I want to reiterate the importance of having open communication with your photographer. The more your photographer knows you and what you like, the more that they can help you feel the most confident that you can be. So take some deep breaths and be excited to have some new pictures of you!
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