How to Relax in Front of the Camera

I don't know how to pose for photos. We hear it almost constantly, and it's almost never true. Stiffness isn't about looks, it's about nerves. And nerves can be handled. Here's how.

Nerves in front of the lens are completely normal, even for people who otherwise feel confident. The good news is that we can work with it, and we can simply take away most of what bothers you once the shoot gets going.

You don't need to know anything

Your only job is to show up. Poses, hands and posture are on us, and we guide you along. The less you try to stand well, the more natural it looks.

Keep moving, don't freeze

Rigid poses happen when you freeze. Walk, turn, lean, laugh. Movement breaks the tension and the photos come alive. The best shots often happen between poses.

Breathe and drop your shoulders

With nerves we unknowingly raise our shoulders and hold our breath. A few slow breaths before the shoot and consciously dropping your shoulders make a big difference to your expression.

Try this: breathe in through your nose for four seconds, out through your mouth for four seconds, repeat three times.

What to do with your hands

Hands are where nerves show most, hanging awkwardly or clenched into fists. Lean on something, touch your hair, or hold your partner's hand. A small object relaxes your whole body.

The most beautiful photos aren't the most perfect ones, they're the ones where you can tell it's really you.

Bring some support

Come with a partner, a friend or a favourite object. When you have someone to look at or laugh with, your body relaxes on its own. That's why couple and family photos are often the most natural. A pet or a favourite toy works just as well.

Don't think about the result during the shoot

There's no need to check every shot on the screen. Trust us and enjoy the hour. You'll look at the photos afterwards, in peace. During the shoot, just be.

Being tired or rushed shows on your face fast. Plan enough time so you don't arrive straight from work or traffic.

Talk to us

If something bothers you, clothing, light, angle, just say so, it's part of the job. We're just as happy to hear what you like about yourself.

A little music and conversation

We put on your favourite music, chat and joke. A shoot with us isn't a test, it's time spent together. A relaxed atmosphere always carries over into the photos.

Quick tricks against nerves

• Keep moving, don't freeze in one pose.
• Take a few slow, deep breaths.
• Drop your shoulders and relax your jaw.
• Bring support, a partner, a friend or a favourite object.
• Don't check every single shot on the screen.
• Trust your photographer, they guide you through the whole shoot.
• Tell us what bothers or pleases you.
• Arrive with time to spare.

And above all, it doesn't have to be perfect. The most beautiful photos are the ones where it's really you. We'll take care of the rest.

Frequently asked questions

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