As a photographer, there are two phrases that I hear time and time again from my clients at the beginning of every photo session: "I really don't like having my photos taken" and "I never look good in photos, I am not photogenic."
And let me tell you, 99% of us can relate to these sentiments - including myself. There's something about that intrusive lens barrel staring at your face that can make anyone feel awkward and self-conscious.
Feeling a bit awkward is completely normal. The first few shots may not look perfect, but that's okay. As the session progresses, I strive to put my clients at ease and inject a bit of fun into the shoot. Even the most formal business headshot session can benefit from a bit of humor and levity.
Now, let's talk about posing. Unless you're a professional model, posing for photos can feel like an uncomfortable and unnatural task. But here's a little secret: there's no such thing as a "perfect" pose. Allow me to guide you, and trust me when I say that the photos will turn out great. Every person is unique and different, with their own natural way of moving and expressing themselves. I strive to capture my clients' true essence, rather than forcing them into an unnatural or uncomfortable pose.
And let's not forget about the self-consciousness that can come with having your photo taken. We are all our own harshest critics, picking apart every perceived flaw and imperfection. But the truth is, bad photos do exist, and can often be attributed to the wrong angle and, more likely, poor lighting. Lighting truly is the magic that makes or breaks a photo, and that's why photographers like myself are constantly chasing the best light for outdoor sessions and taking the time to set up our equipment just right for indoor shoots.
And one more thing. When it comes to our photos, time is truly the ultimate judge. I've often found myself looking back at pictures of myself that I once despised, only to realize how stunning I truly looked. It's amazing how our perceptions of ourselves can change over time, and it's a great reminder to not be too hard on ourselves in the present moment. So the next time you're feeling unsure about a photo, remember that with time, it may become one of your favorites.
So, my friends, don't let that pesky pimple or nagging self-doubt get in the way of capturing beautiful and timeless images. In the words of one of my clients, "I never thought I could look that good." And let me tell you, you can too. So come to your photo session well-rested, hydrated, and maybe even a little dolled up. I'll take care of the rest.
