Ever felt a wave of nerves before a photoshoot? You’re not alone. One of the first comments my clients often make before we begin the brand session is: “I’m so nervous”, “I feel awkward”, “I don’t know how to pose”, and “I don’t look good on camera”. But you need to nail your brand photos, don’t you?
So, my quick response used to be “Why? It’s not a meeting! We are going to have fun”, “You are not nervous, you are just excited!!!”. I confess I am just trying to break the ice and make you laugh and feel at ease with me.
Why Confidence Matters
Let’s face it, stepping outside your comfort zone for a branding photoshoot can feel intimidating. This means trusting someone else to capture a version of yourself that may even be unfamiliar. But, remember, as Brené Brown said, “You are in the arena.” You’re taking a bold step for yourself and your business!
The good news is, you’re not expected to be a seasoned model. Striking perfect poses and mastering angles and expressions comes naturally to some, but not all. Calming your nerves is key to nail your brand photos.
Here’s where your photographer comes in as your partner. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, get involved in the process, and openly share any feelings or fears you might have. It’s the photographer’s responsibility to create a relaxed and confident environment for you to shine in front of the camera. Let them guide you through the process and focus on what you do best – showcasing your unique personality and passion for your business.
Personal branding photography aims to showcase the client’s authenticity. This authenticity helps build genuine connections with their ideal audience. Stiff poses and fake smiles won’t bring that!
Instead, I always recommend my clients do something they usually do in their routine. For instance, a life coach who loves meditation as part of her morning routine, why not incorporate this practice in her shooting? While she was immersed in her breath, focused on the quiet hum of the studio, I captured candid shots. We added movement to the scene, and she didn’t feel awkward because she was doing what she normally does.
Music may also help the clients be less focused on the camera. They start singing or dancing their favorite songs, eliminating the need for static posing, leading to beautiful candid moments, though. You will nail your brand photos, and forget you are in a photoshoot!
An authentic location, where the client is related to it somehow, is another great way to add movement and nail the brand photoshoot. Whether the client commented about a coffee shop she loves working there, why not shoot some photos there? She can order her favorite coffee, start a conversation about something she is passionate about, and end up with candid brand photos !!! Her hands are busy and she is talking about something that, unconsciously, brings her a genuine and fulfilled expression.
And, last, but not least, I give my clients constant positive feedback: “You are doing an amazing job”, “I love the way you look at…”, “You rocked it”, “not a fake smile, gal!” (after that, she usually bursts out of laughing). Even when a shot doesn’t work well, I push her through: “That’s good, but we can do even better”.
Who doesn’t love a compliment, isn’t it?
Remember, it’s the photographer’s responsibility to unlock confidence over the brand session! And if you want to learn more about my process, hit the button below, and let’s chat!! 🙂
Xo,
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