if you’re anything like me, you may not like taking photos. Have you ever asked yourself why? I know I have.

Especially as a photographer, you’d think I’d love having my photos taken. But the truth is, my real comfort spot is behind the camera. Not in front.

So why don’t I like taking photos?

I’m generally a shy person. Or as I decide myself – an introverted extrovert. Every day is not guaranteed to be my most confident day, so I’m not always up for any bad hair days or blemishes being captured and frozen in time forever.

Okay, maybe that’s a little dramatic. For some of you, it may be as simple you just don’t know what to do when the camera comes up. Or you have a ‘flaw’ you don’t want to be highlighted. Maybe you’re a bit shy about your weight being more than you’d like or even a little less than you’d like.

Here’s the thing… You’re not alone. We all have those moments of uncertainty and of feeling perfectly imperfect and I’m here to assure you that there’s nothing wrong with that. And to give you a few tips that may make your photo session go a bit easier.

Wear an outfit that you absolutely love

Nothing makes me feel better or more confident than wearing that pair of jeans that hugs my hips just right. Or that shirt that has the right next line. Or those shoes that I can run circles in. Sometimes I even add my favourite watch, rings and chains, because I love them and they just make me feel good. Feeling good goes a long way in boosting that confidence.

Trust your photographer with your insecurity

Photographers know quite a few tips and tricks on how to hide certain insecurities. But they won’t be able to help you if you don’t tell them. I may be a great photographer, but unfortunately I am yet to master jedi mind tricks. So if you are conscious of your double chin showing, tell me. Maybe it’s a birthmark that you’re comfortable with, but a sudden pimple came up and you don’t want that to be seen. Maybe it’s one eye that seems to be smaller than the other. All of these are things we can discuss and devise a plan to help you feel a bit more comfortable.

Feel free to let me know when you’re uncertain or unsure so I can help. And trust me, I love to talk, so I’ll definitely be chatting along about anything and everything, to keep you at ease. I’ll also  let you know how great you’re doing and when you may need to make a few tweaks.

Don’t take yourself or the session too seriously

Sometimes we build up anxiety when we overthink things. You start thinking about looking awkward. Or where to place your hands. Don’t take yourself or the session too seriously.

There’s nothing to worry about. I usually send an email with what to wear, what to expect and I’m open to answering any other questions you may have. The goal here is to have fun, to capture those moments with those you love and to leave a lasting memory.

It’s not a test and I certainly won’t be grading you. So let yourself have fun. It’s alright to be silly. I’ll be silly right alongside you.

Try new things

For those who aren’t used to having their photos taken, you may have heard of ways to pose. Standard poses that people may want to try don’t always work for everyone. And the pose you do for Uncle Ben may not be the best. Plus, I prefer to take candids anyway, so there’s really no need to stand a particular way. Be willing to try something outside the box and just go with it.

My best advice is to have an open mind when it comes to your session. You may not like taking photos, but you can have a great experience if you tell me what’s really bothering you. Trust me when I say I know how it feels. And remember that I’ve got you and I’ll do my best to ensure we both have fun.

So give it some thought. I’d love to work with you.