Tried and True Photoshoot Confidence Tips
Are you scared to get photos taken of yourself or are dreading it because you think you’re awkward or not photogenic? I’m here to tell you to stop those negative thoughts! Easier said than done, I know. BUT, I have some really great tips that will help you boost your confidence at your next photoshoot. Trust me, they work! The following tips are coming from a branding photographer who has photographed hundreds of people, and a human who knows what it feels like to be uncomfortable in front of a camera! I was also incredibly inspired to write this blog post after my own branding session I recently booked for myself. So with that being said, here are my SIX best tips:
1) Get your hair/makeup done by someone you love and trust
I know I’m good at doing hair, but I know I’m not the best at makeup. So, I did my hair, most of my makeup, but then I had my friend do my eye makeup before my branding session. The results? I felt and looked so good. I’ve heard the whole “look good, feel good” saying from so many people, and it is absolutely true. When you think you look good, you’re going to feel good. This boosted my confidence at the shoot, and I felt less insecure in front of the camera. When you know you look good, you’re not going to worry about how you look.
I also recommend bringing a bag full of makeup and tools for touch-ups!
2) Play your favorite music that energizes you
Prior to your session, find a playlist or create a playlist that is full of your favorite feel-good songs. Some of my personal favorites:
I feel Good - Pink Sweat$
CUFF IT - Beyoncé
Juice - Lizzo
Levitating - Dua Lipa
Beautiful People - Ed Sheeran x Khalid
Rollin - Calvin Harris
Signs - Drake
Sometimes when my clients rent studios, there will be a speaker that we can connect our phones to. I invested in a portable speaker for my clients, so I bring that to every photoshoot if we’re unsure if the location has a speaker. I’ve also had some clients bring their own portable speakers!
3) Be vulnerable with your photographer
If you know what your good side is, tell your photographer.
If you don’t know what your good side is, ask your photographer.
If you have any concerns, be open with your photographer.
Ideally, the photographer you hire will know the best lighting, angles, and how to pose you. I think it’s important my clients feel comfortable being vulnerable with me, and I like to address any concerns to make sure that my clients feel good! Before the sessions, I like to ask my clients what side(s) they prefer and if they have any concerns or insecurities. Luckily, I was professionally trained as a portrait photographer and have been in the industry for over 10 years, so I know the best techniques for flattering poses, lighting, and angles! If you work with me, you’ll already feel comfortable knowing that you’re in good hands.
4) Try on your clothes prior to the session
One of the worst feelings is when you’re in a rush and you throw something on that just didn’t turn out as you imagined. Been there, done that. At least a couple of days before your session, try on clothing and take a good look at yourself in a mirror. Turn around, squat, sit down, etc.. See what the clothing looks like in different poses. Two other things you can do:
Record videos of yourself in the clothing. Do a 360 turn, squat, sit down, cross your arms, raise your hands up, etc. Then you can look back at the videos.
Ask someone who is trustworthy and honest for their opinions.
Be sure that you are comfortable in the clothes you’re wearing! I recommend starting in your closet first before going out to buy new clothes. If you can’t find anything you like in your closet, then start shopping!
5) Treat Yourself
You deserve to feel incredible, both inside and out! Before your photoshoot, indulge in some self-care! A little goes a long way, as small acts of self-care can make a big difference. Here are some ideas:
Get your nails done
Make your photoshoot day a YOU day- go out and treat yourself at a coffee shop or cafe before your photoshoot. You’ll already be looking so good from the photoshoot, so you might as well go out too!
Bonus: Consider getting a professional teeth whitening treatment or tan
6) Affirmations
Significantly boost your confidence with the use of this powerful tool: positive affirmations. Think of them as your personal hype squad! Repeat affirmations like:
“I am confident and successful”
“I am worthy of this experience and the memories it will create”
“I am embracing my beauty and features that make me unique”
Ready to shine and show up?
