How To Be Comfortable and Confident During A Portrait Session

In the past I had clients who booked a portrait session and on the day of the shoot they were a nervous wreck! Many times I heard the phrase "So what do I do?" or the famous "I'm not good in front of the camera." So today I am going to list three easy things that can help you be more comfortable and confident during your next portrait session. Here we go!

1. Pick an outfit that makes your feel confident.

Every now and then I will have a client come in for their portrait session with in an outfit that doesn't fit properly or the color of the outfit isn't to their liking. This one thing can make you uncomfortable during your portrait session because your won't be 100% confident and that is the opposite of what you want right? Your outfit should compliment your build, your hairstyle and the concept of the shoot. When you feel good in your outfit and it flows with your look it will show in your pictures.

2. Practice taking pictures at home.

I know this sounds small but it can make a big difference. Before you say "I take pictures on my phone all of the time", I am only saying that it would be a good idea to let someone else take a picture of you on their phone with the lens pointed directly at you. This can simulate a camera lens being in front of you. Selfies or Celfie's if you're fancy lol, allow you to see yourself as you take the picture. It is completely different when someone else has the camera and the lens is pointing directly at you and you don't know what angle is being captured. At this point you have to know that you are going to look good any angle. The only way you can do that is by being comfortable and confident from head to toe.

3. Choose a photographer you will be comfortable with.

As a photographer, not only is delivering high quality photos a priority but I also understand the importance of getting to know my clients and making sure they are comfortable and confident behind the scenes and behind the lens. After all, it will show in the pictures if the person wasn't comfortable with the photographer.

When searching for the right photographer it is a good idea to look up the content that has already been published by the photographer. Another good idea is to read the online reviews. If the photographer is someone local, ask about how the photographer made other clients feel during their portrait sessions. Upon research you will be able to have a better idea if you are choosing the right photographer and you will have a better chance of being comfortable with this photographer.

Being comfortable during your photo session is one of the most important things to having a successful portrait session. I hope these three tips help you the next time you are ready to have your portraits done.

Here are a few photos of me with two clients. The first pictures is on the set of an engagement shoot. Notice the confident stand. She was comfortable with me and confident in her outfit of choice.

The second photo is with one of beautiful brides that I have had the opportunity to capture. It was her wedding day and she wanted to take a picture with the photographer. That shows that she was confident and comfortable.

I also added a clip of me with one of my favorite toddlers. He was very comfortable at this session lol.

All photo & video by or on the set with: Caleb T. Dunbar Photography

I hope these three tips help you be more confident and comfortable at your next portrait session.

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