How to feel more at ease in front of the camera.

If a lack of confidence in front of the camera is holding you back from booking a photographer, I’ve got your back. Here are my top five tips to taking control of your next photoshoot.

Prepare and plan

Start on Pinterest and make a moodboard of the style of photoshoot you’re aiming for. Visualising the outcome will help you plan your outfits, props and ideal locations. You can also refer back to your moodboard during your photoshoot to make sure you’re sticking to your style choices.

Choose the right photographer

You shouldn’t choose a photographer based solely on the fact that they can take photos. Find someone who understands your creative vision and makes you feel comfortable. A supportive photographer can help choose locations that are right for you (if you’re nervous, I’d always suggest quiet streets or local spots before opening hours). They can also help by directing your poses so you can ease into the shoot.

Own the action shot

Movement and action, like working on your laptop, or making jewellery, can show your process and help you relax. It’s also a chance for your photographer to take candid shots. You can then work up to making eye contact with the camera for those lovely portraits!

Make your photographer work for it

Don’t feel like you can’t ask your photographer to help you out. If you need a jazzy playlist to hype you up before the shoot, or to demonstrate the poses - ask them! I never like someone to pull a pose I wouldn’t do myself, so get your photographer to join in and have fun with it.

Embrace the shoot

This is your opportunity to showcase your skills and show people why they should invest in you. Everyone deserves the space to shout about themselves and to feel confident in their craft, so fully embrace the opportunity, and try to have fun with it.