I get it. That large device in your face.
You tense up.
It’s weird. You get clammy.
The shutter makes you shudder.
Camera shyness means you’re a normal person.
But these photos must be taken.
I want to put you at ease – there’s some tricks to work around this!

I’ve accumulated over a decade of experience in front (whaddup roller coaster modeling, haha!) and behind the camera and this is what I’ve found works best for me and my photo subjects!

Here are three tips on how to be comfortable in front of the camera:

1. Choose the Right Photographer

Choose a photographer whose work and style you like P L U S one you’re comfortable with. This is important for weddings, headshots, events…E V E R Y T H I N G! Meet up with them in person, talk with them on the phone, read reviews or if your friend recommends them, ask about their vibes and personality.

Getting your photograph taken is a special special thing.
Keep it sacred and special! Don’t go with anyone you don’t have a good gut feeling about.

So yes, maybe we meet, you interview me, and I may not be the perfect photographer for you.
No sweat.
Seriously. If we’re the right fit, we’re the right fit – if not, I can always refer you to my other photographer friends. Let’s do it right!

I’ve collaborated with Jenna of @eatliverun so many times over the years that we’ve developed a yummy working relationship that is natural and candid – she is simply herself!

2. Relax

If you’ve chosen the right photographer, take a deep breath…this should be fun – it’s not the dentist, it’s not the DMV! If I do my job right, I’m taking a photo that communicates Y O U in your most Y O U state of relaxation and feels.

Also deep breaths. help. everything.
And chocolate.

I try to have a piece of the latter with me at all times.
That’s what I’m saying interview me.
Photographer chemistry and knowing about their chocolate stash is v. important.

Eddie and Brenda of Glacier Point Band S L A Y with the smizes

3. The art of the SMIZE

God bless Tyra Banks. For the majority of us won’t make it on ANTM, we can at least benefit by learning to convey happiness and delight with just. our. eyes. Smiling with our eyes = the SMIZE.

I’ll admit, I had to practice how to do this since my go-to smile is a wide open LOL-you-can-see-my-tonsils-kind-of-mid-laugh-number OR wow-I’m-about-to-eat-a-hamburger (see bio photos).
So I went to school.
I studied at the elite educational institution known as Buzzfeed and followed the footsteps of my sweet sweet Olsens (see: prune.)

And then I learned to do this:

I say the word smize at almost every photo session.
So don’t be surprised!

Hopefully these simple tricks will help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera. If you have any Qs leave them in the comments below!

Interested in a Personal Brand Photo Session? Fill out the contact form below! Personal Branding Photo Packages start at $950.