Capturing Natural Moments: Tips for Feeling Comfortable in Front of the Camera
I often get asked if I have any tips on feeling more natural in front of the camera. I get it! Having your picture taken can feel very awkward. Being well-prepared for your photo session is critical to keeping down your anxiety level before and during your session.
What is the first step in preparing, you ask? I highly recommend all my new and repeat clients schedule a Zoom chat pre-session with me. We will discuss the details of your session, and I can answer any questions you have. My pre-session call is essential for first-time clients because it's an icebreaker and an excellent way for me to get some face time in with everyone, especially the kiddos. Having seen me before the session helps the little ones to get comfortable.
Have you not scheduled your pre-call yet? Then this post is for you! Below are some of my top tips to get your planning jumpstarted.
Keep The Location Familiar.
Choose a location where you and your family are relaxed and comfortable. Somewhere where you can be and act entirely naturally. So, let's not plan to meet somewhere you've never been before. Instead, we can determine if that place is at home or a site unique to your family.
***Please note all my newborn sessions take place in the comfort of your home.***
Look out for a more in-depth post on location scouting coming soon!
Make Use of Props.
Feel free to incorporate small props into your session. Props can help add a creative twist, visually assist in storytelling, and entertain the young. However, while you might have recently seen social media trends incorporating a specific prop, try not to use something that looks dated in twenty years. Props can be an item of clothing like a hat or sunglasses. Or perhaps a child's adored lovey or a musical instrument that you treasure. Likewise, make the current season work to your advantage by using what's available. For example, leaves in the fall make unique props in photos and don't cost anything!
Prop Tip: I love incorporating bubbles into sessions with young children! They can add depth and creativity to images; bubbles are great for holding their attention.
Strike A Pose... Or Not!
My job is to create photographs that tell the story of you and your family now in time - either through a documentary or lifestyle photo session. The difference between lifestyle and documentary is the amount of creative input you want from me during your session. I provide guidance with posing and the shoot's flow in lifestyle sessions. On the contrary, clients are not directed in documentary sessions. The light is not altered, and the post-production is minimal. No matter which session type you prefer, it is my job as a professional photographer to capture the most beautiful angles of my clients.
Posing Tip: Read more on the differences between lifestyle and documentary sessions HERE.
Forced Smiles Are Not Flattering.
While making direct eye contact with the camera creates a connection with the person viewing the photo, those same forced smiles and expressions can feel uncomfortable for you. We've all seen those photographs where everyone looks like they have a locked jaw from smiling. How painfully awkward. So instead, focus on making eye contact and connecting with your loved ones.
I will let you know when I need you to look my way to get the shot. Don't you prefer to look at your kiddo's adorable face anyway?
Get Close.
The last thing you want is a family portrait that looks stiff and uncomfortable. The secret to creating a beautiful, intimate family photo is to get close. Snuggle up with the people you love if you want the best shots. Don't be afraid to touch and interact with each other. The best photos happen when you're having fun, so joke and play with your children, hold your partner's hand, and let the moments happen.
Posing tip: If there are people of varying heights in your family - pick those little ones up (if possible) so that you can get your heads close together for some gorgeous shots.