5 Tips to Make Sure You're Comfortable During Your Photoshoot
It’s no secret that posing for a photo is not easy. In fact, it can be downright awkward at times. You might feel self-conscious about your appearance or nervous about how you come across in the final shot. 😟
Here at RAW Photography Manchester, we are always trying to make sure you feel at ease in front of the camera. We understand that it can be a daunting prospect even to the most seasoned professional.
But when approached with confidence and pre-prepared tips, a photoshoot can also be enjoyable! 😊
Here are 5 insider tips to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible during your photoshoot:
Keep calm and eat biscuits 🍪
The single most important thing you can do to get great photos is to RELAX!
Easier said than done, right?! There is nothing less relaxing than being told to ‘just relax’ especially in an artificial environment like a photographer’s studio.
When photographers take the ‘time is money’ approach to working with clients, you are on an uphill battle before you’ve even released the shutter for the first time.
Even actors spend years learning how to behave naturally on stage and on camera, both of which are alien environments to begin with, so why should we expect anyone to be able to do that from the word go?
This is why the pre-shoot tea/coffee ☕ (and optional biscuit!) and catch up is such an important part of the photoshoot! Feel free to talk to us before we start, locate the bathroom, have a look around the studio, check our portfolio photos for inspiration… Have questions? Fire away!
2. Bring clothes you love and are comfortable in 👗👚
Outfit planning is a key factor in making sure that you’re as comfortable as possible during your photoshoot. If the plan is to be shooting indoors, you don’t want to wear a heavy woollen coat – you’ll be sweltering! Likewise, you don’t want to be freezing in a thin blouse and jeans. With that in mind, make sure your outfit for the photoshoot is something you feel confident in. Confidence is key and if you feel self-conscious, the camera will pick up on that right away.
Why not try on your outfit before the shoot in the comfort of your own home and see how you feel in it in front of the mirror?
3. Take your favourite music with you 🎶
Atmosphere in the room (or location) that you are creating the work in is crucial. If it feels clinical and technical then that vibe is absorbed and it’s no surprise when that is what comes across in the finished photographs. Nothing gets us where we need to be quicker than good old-fashioned conversation and maybe a little music to soften the edges. Then and only then can you be yourself in front of the camera. Love classical music? Only revel with loud rock ’n’ roll? Tell us and we’ll set up the mood for you.
4. Plan ahead 😉
Getting in front of the camera doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan ahead.
Plan your route to the studio or location and aim at getting there 15 minutes early so you’re not arriving flustered and anxious.
Why not even listen to your favourite music en route?
Hate driving? Not got a licence? We’ve got your back! Just let us know ahead and we can pick you up from the nearest tram stop or station (Bury or Rochdale, take your pick!)
Stay hydrated and eat healthy: being well hydrated and eating healthy will help boost your energy and confidence. Eat plenty of protein and water-rich foods that will help you feel more energised and less self-conscious during your photoshoot. Lastly, try to get a good night’s sleep the night before 😴
5. We’re here to help 🤗
If you’re doing a solo shoot, make sure to let your photographer know what you’re comfortable doing and what you aren’t comfortable doing. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. When it comes to what you’re comfortable doing in front of the camera, be honest. If there’s an angle you’re not comfortable with or a pose you’d rather avoid, speak up. We’ll always appreciate your honesty.
After all, if you are not relaxed, open and in a calm state, then you will never get the perfect portrait. The camera captures a split second of your existence and then produces an image based on that little slice of time.
At RAW, we work with many different types of personality, from the deeply shy to the overly confident and everyone in between, and we pride ourselves on making our clients feel comfortable in front of the lens and even excited about their shoot! We don’t want it to be just another job or appointment. It’s an experience. And we want you to enjoy it as much as possible!
Whatever you do, don’t forget to have fun with your photoshoot! It is key to getting the best possible shots.
Whatever photos you’re after, we are on hand to shape the shoot and to make sure that your ‘posing’ is flattering and natural for you, that the lighting suits the mood that we are wanting to achieve and that we find your ‘best side’.
But remember, your ‘best side’ is not just a physical position, it’s also a mental state. And together, from both ends of the camera, we’ll make sure we find it.
