I’m going to share a secret with you. Most photographers, myself included, are a bit camera-shy.
Seems like it would be the opposite, doesn’t it?
Photographers are used to being behind the camera so often, that getting in FRONT of the camera can be a little nerve-wracking.
So trust me when I say, “I understand your fears” that I understand.
If you struggle with the fear of being photographed, I’m going to share some tips to help you overcome that fear.
I’m also here to help you realize this is normal and I’ll do everything I can to make you comfortable during your own photoshoot.
Fears of Being Photographed
Let me guess. You need updated photos of yourself for your website, social media, or just for yourself. But you have some of these hesitations listed below.
I’m not photogenic.
I hate having my photo taken.
I need to lose weight first.
I feel self-conscious about the way I look.
I’ve had a photoshoot before and hated the photos.
I’m worried I won’t look like myself in the photos.
I don’t know what to wear.
I’m too nervous to have a photoshoot.
First, I’m here to remind you that these feelings are normal and very common. Getting over these fears is something that’s easier said than done, but I’m here to help!
In the next section, I’ll break down each of these reasons and explain how I’ll help you through each of them.
Ready to overcome your photogra-fear? (We have to insert humor where we can!)
8 Tips to Overcome Your Fear of Being Photographed
Fear #1: I’m not photogenic.
Tip #1: Being “photogenic” isn’t a real thing! Sure supermodels make it look easy - but that’s because it’s their JOB.
It’s my job, as your photographer, to know which angles, poses, and lighting makes you look your best. By the end of your photoshoot, you’ll see that it’s all a process. We work together to make sure we capture you looking your best!
Fear #2: I hate having my photos taken.
Tip #2: My favorite clients are those who hate having their photos taken!
Why? Because I love showing clients how beautiful they really are.
I promise that a photoshoot with me will be fun and enjoyable! This is something I pride myself on because I know photoshoots can be intimidating.
I have a stylist to do your hair and makeup, and I help you choose your wardrobe for your session. This helps ease any anxiety of not knowing what to expect.
Fear #3: I need to lose weight first.
Tip #3: I specialize in photographing all kinds of body types in flattering ways. I got you!
I know this is a touchy subject, especially for women. But there will never be a “perfect time” to have photos if you’re waiting to lose weight first. What usually happens is we lose that 5 pounds, then realize we want to lose another 5 pounds. The cycle is exhausting. I know it, and I’m guessing you know it.
Instead of focusing on the weight you want to lose, let’s focus on the parts of your body that you DO like! We can accentuate your smile, your eyes, your hair - whatever body part you like.
I have lots of experience posing and lighting different body types. If you’re open in communicating your favorite and least favorite body parts, I can help!
Fear #4: I feel self-conscious about the way I look.
Tip #4: This ties into the last tip. Communicate with me about what your fears are, and I can help!
People want to see you in your marketing, just as you are. I only work with the best professional hair and makeup artists that will talk with you about exactly how you want to be styled.
I’ll make sure you look like the best version of yourself - I promise!
You’ll go from self-conscious to exciting to post your new photos!
Fear #5: I’ve had a photoshoot before, and hated the photos.
Tip #5: I love a challenge, and I’m going to change your mind!
I pose and light in flattering ways, specifically for women. You will walk away with beautiful photos that you can use in your marketing, on your website, and on social media.
After your session, i will reveal your pictures. If you really don’t like them, you don’t buy them. It’s that simple.
There is absolutely NO OBLIGATION to purchase anything you don’t love.
Fear #6: I’m worried I won’t look like myself in the photos.
Tip #6: We’ll work together to make sure you look like yourself - just a bit more polished!
My stylist will talk with you about how you want your hair and makeup done so that you look comfortable. You always have the option to have her make changes while she’s working on you too. So when you get in front of the camera, you’re 100% comfortable!
I also make sure to edit your photos how you want them. I can edit very light and natural or a bit heavier. It’s totally up to you.
The goal is to create the best photos you’ve seen of yourself…and I stand behind that promise.
Fear #7: I don’t know what to wear.
Tip #7: I’ll guide you during your planning consultation!
During the planning phase, I help you identify wardrobe pieces that will photograph well, and reflect your personality. The good thing is that you have multiple outfit changes available, so you don’t have to worry about picking just one look.
Sometimes my clients will bring more items than they’ll need for their photoshoot, and I help them decide in person which outfits to wear.
You’ll be in the hair and makeup chair for about 45-60 minutes, so this is the perfect opportunity for me to look through your wardrobe options and chat with you about what will look the best!
Fear #8: I’m too nervous to have a photoshoot.
Tip #8: This feeling is normal, and I’ll guide you through each step of the process. From planning your wardrobe to the final image selection, I’ll guide you!
99% of my clients were nervous for their photoshoot too. It’s not everyday that we have our photos taken - but it is important, especially for our business marketing!
Of those clients that arrived nervous for their photoshoot, they left saying they had a great time - and you will too!
I promise that I’ll take great care of you during your photoshoot! But don't just take my word for it. Here’s what a client had to say about working with me:
As a professional photographer, it’s my job to help you through every phase of a photo session. The more open you can be with me about your insecurities, the more I’ll be able to help.
I help you plan ahead, so you walk in feeling comfortable and excited for your big day!
If you still have a bit of anxiety when your photoshoot day rolls around, that’s perfectly normal. We’ll have time to talk and get comfortable with each other while you’re in the hair and makeup chair. Before you know it, you’ll feel relaxed and ready for your “close up!”
Ready to book your session?
Want to look through some more of my sessions? You can check out my Instagram feed here!