Whether you hop on your Instagram stories daily, are recording TikToks and/or Reels to build up your online presence, are hiring a professional photographer quarterly, practicing self-portraits, getting married, starting a family, or anything really, at some point you are going to find yourself in front of a camera and I think we can all agree that being comfortable in front of the camera is a lot more fun than being uncomfortable but how do we actually get comfortable? I’m sharing some of my favorite tips today to help you loosen up and feel more like yourself while being photographed.

1) PRACTICE DIFFERENT POSES AND FACIAL EXPRESSIONS IN THE MIRROR

You’re probably going to feel stupid, yes, but this is super helpful! Look at yourself in the mirror, straight on, to the side, the other side, chin up, chin down, smile with teeth, smile without teeth, try a serious face, find out which angles, poses, and expressions you like the most but also look at the areas you struggle in. Do you slouch a lot? Is your go-to pose an unflattering one? Do you tend to close off a certain area you’re uncomfortable with? Yes, if you’re hiring a photographer they will help adjust you, but being aware of all of this is going to be super helpful next time you’re in front of the camera. It’ll also help to boost your confidence!

2) MOVE! THE MORE STILL YOU ARE THE MORE UNCOMFORTABLE YOU’RE GOING TO GET

Moving around is going to help capture the most natural you (and after all, that’s the goal isn’t it?). Movements don’t have to be huge to be effective, a head turn, a step back and forth, a little twist, etc. can help you feel and look a lot better in front of the camera.

3) CREATE A PLAYLIST THAT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD

Ask your photographer if it’s okay for you to play music at your session (I’ve never come across a photographer that’s objected to this). Play songs that make you feel good, that make you smile, and songs that make you dance! It’s more fun to be in front of the camera with music playing than it is with awkward silence.

Remember, just about all of us feel a little weird with a camera pointed at us, give yourself some grace, laugh at yourself, and shake it out if you feel uncomfortable! I hope you find these tips helpful next time you’re in front of the camera!