Let me know if this sounds familiar. You've done your research, flipped through countless portfolios, and scoured social media before finally deciding on a professional photographer to create an image for you. But before you can pull the trigger and book a session, you panic and second guess yourself. You start comparing yourself to all the models and actresses you've seen over the years who seem to have a natural elegance for posing in front of the camera.
Even Professional Models Need To Be Guided
Having worked with both professional models and actresses, I can assure you that even the best of them need direction from time to time. In fact, guidance and feedback are essential during any collaboration. Of course, some notable people have a natural affinity for their craft, but even the naturally gifted had to master the basics to rise to an elite level.
Become aware of your body and movements
It may sound simple, but under the bright lights of studio production, people have a tendency to freeze up and become rigid when a camera is pointed at them, especially if it's their first time in that setting. Things don't have to play out that way, though. Creating a beautiful image is a collaborative effort between a talented INTUITIVE photographer (wink wink) and a willing subject. You don't need to be a professional model to have a fulfilling experience during a photoshoot, but to perform and execute near your highest potential during a session, a good attitude and calm control over your body & mind are a must. Don't get me wrong, I can make anyone look great who sits in front of my camera. Still, there are levels to how an image is created when a person lacks confidence compared to someone self-assured. If you are on my website reading this article, you care about the quality of work produced, so I want to arm you with the tools to be your best during your session. So we know the more relaxed you are, the more natural and coordinated your movements will be, translating to a better image. So, where do you begin?
Self Confidence comes from the lack of neglect
If you want to look better in pictures or get better with posing, it all starts with the effort you put in with the small daily things in your control.
Have you sat in front of the mirror practicing different poses, have you studied models you look up to, have you played around and experimented taking pictures of yourself with new angles and poses? I can guarantee you that the top models from across the globe have done similar things with repetition to Ad nauseam, so everything is natural and second nature when it's showtime. Remember that you are not training yourself to be mechanical like a robot; what you are doing is building muscle memory, learning to move, and understanding your body. If you do the small things even a few times a week, when you are in front of the camera, the knowledge is there to draw from and build off.
Obviously, top models are an extreme example. Still, we can learn from them that the self-confidence you show up with to a photoshoot all starts from within, days, weeks, or even months before you step foot into the studio, and you have the power to take control and give your all. If you can find the courage to let go and trust yourself while giving your best effort, you'd be surprised at just how capable you are!