How to Look & Feel More Confident in Front of the Camera 

I’m about to get super real with you. Being in front of the camera can feel awkward as hell. Even if you do it all the time, there are still moments where insecurity strikes and you suddenly feel like a middle-schooler again. 

As a wedding and portrait photographer, I’m frequently asked how I get people to look so natural in front of the camera. Most people assume that I just take pictures of photogenic people, models, or people used to being in front of the camera. 

Nope! 

I take pictures of regular people – just like you and me. People who have insecurities, get camera shy, and aren’t sure how to hold their hands. 

So how did they end up looking so BOMB in their photos? 

They had me. And I have an arsenal of tools to make sure you look and feel your best in front of the camera! 

So if you feel uncomfortable in front of a camera and want to feel confident before your wedding day or photoshoot, read on! These tips have helped me and countless clients feel confident getting their picture taken. 

Because here’s a secret… you should feel confident. I believe everyone is gorgeous. Some people just don’t know yet! That’s why I believe in the power of portrait photography – to help you see yourself outside the lens of your own insecurity. 

Because, bestie – you are so fucking hot. You just don’t know it yet. 

6 Easy Tips For Feeling (and Looking!) Your Best in Photos 

I take your comfort in front of the camera very seriously. It can feel scary to take center stage. But when you’re with me, you’ll never be alone. 

I promise to take my time with you and make sure you feel comfortable with me before I even pull out my camera. Taking photos should be fun and I want you to feel free to let loose. We’re here to create art, and art can’t be rushed, forced, or faked. 

So here are my tips for before and during your photoshoot so you feel like the badass you are! 

1. Wear Something You Feel Amazing In

Never underestimate the power of a good outfit. Whether you’re getting your picture taken or going out with friends – a good outfit can be the difference between a good day and a great one. 

Even when I’m working from home, sometimes I’ll put on my favorite heels because I need a little confidence boost. There’s nothing a pair of heels can’t fix. 

So if you’re nervous about an upcoming photo shoot, wear an outfit you feel good in. It could be your favorite sundress or the punk-rock outfit you’ve been hiding in your closet. 

Does it make you feel good? Does it make you stand a little taller and say dayummmmm when you look in the mirror? 

Yeah, that’s the one. 

2. Hire a Makeup & Hair Stylist 

For some people, this might feel like overkill. If so, feel free to skip this step!

But as someone who loves fun (and expensive) makeup, and is absolutely terrible at doing my own – I will take any and every excuse to work with a stylist. 

First of all, who doesn’t love being pampered? And second of all, who doesn’t love feeling like a million bucks? 

If you have the time and budget for it, allowing a hair and makeup stylist to jazz you up can add 10x the fun and confidence to your creative portraits. 

3. Choose A Location You Feel Comfortable In 

When we work together, we both brainstorm locations for your photoshoot! I’ve shot in super cool studios, in the mountains, in fields, and on (and in) the water. I’ve created a studio in my living room, shot at a midcentury modern cinema, and created art in my client’s homes. 

Where do you feel the most comfortable? Do you want to be surrounded by color, or do you want to pop out of the background? Do you cringe at the idea of taking photos in public, or do you love the attention? What vibe do you want your photos to convey? 

These questions can help you figure out where you want your photoshoot and help you feel at home in the space you choose!

4. Hold Something 

This is one of the oldest tricks in the book! 

If you get stiff as soon as a camera points at you and feel like you don’t know how to sit, place your hands, or position your body, hold something. 

Before your session, we’ll chat all about props, settings, outfits, etc. As part of this convo, we figure out a few things you can hold! Some great go-to props are flower bouquets, a glass of wine, an umbrella, or your partner’s hand! 

And for those shots where you’re not holding anything, don’t worry about it! I’m a pro at explaining poses, demonstrating angles, and directing your face and body. I know exactly how to compliment your curves, get your good side, and highlight the things you love most about yourself.

5. Laugh Your Ass Off

Okay, this one is more for me than for you. Because when I take photos, I’m always talking. I’m always cracking jokes or telling stories. 

Why? Because taking photos is a joint effort. It’s an experience that requires both of us to be open and involved. 

And because I like talking. Deal with it. 😘

I think the best photos happen when you’re not even paying attention. They happen in the moments you’re throwing your head back and laughing, wiping tears from your eyes, or trying to catch your breath after a big ol’ belly laugh. 

The best photos are the ones where you aren’t thinking about how you look. You’re just present – fully immersed in the moment. 

THIS is the atmosphere I want to create when we work together. One that’s full of laughter, sarcasm, dirty jokes, and more than one mid-shoot-dance-session. 

6. Hire a Photographer You Vibe With 

This is the most important one. If you want to feel comfortable in front of the camera, you have to feel comfortable with the person holding the camera. 

This is why my clients are never just clients. If you book a shoot with me, hate to break it to you, but we’re gonna be friends. Because getting your photo taken with me isn’t like going to the DMV. You’re not a faceless number. You are my top priority. 

Above everything else I do, I prioritize creating a safe and welcoming space for my clients. You can’t get photos that represent who you are if you don’t feel safe enough to be yourself. 

I reserve time for us to chat and get to know each other, have conversations about what’s important to you, and most of all, have fun! 

I want you to talk to me about your concerns, your dreams, and anything else you want to share! Photoshoots are basically therapy, anyway. Nothing is too weird, no dream is too big, and no idea is too wild. 

We are here to create art, and true art never fits in any boxes. 

Ready to Feel Natural & Confident in Front of the Camera? 

So, at the risk of sounding like a cocky bastard, here’s the bottom line. If you want to feel comfortable in front of the camera, hire me. It’s that easy.

“Laura was amazing to work with. my fiancé and I felt so comfortable and relaxed which made our pictures come out so beautiful. Laura was the best hype woman and made us feel like movie stars too. Her personality and style are unique and her creativity is everything we wanted for our pictures!” Ronya N.

Together, we’ll have one hell of a party and take the coolest photos you’ve ever seen. Fill out the form to get started! 

I can’t wait to create with you! 

Laura 

Oh hey! I’m Laura, an Annapolis, Maryland-based wedding and portrait photographer. I thrive on 3+ cups of coffee, creative visions that make your eyes light up, and conversations that skip the small talk. I take photos of cool and quirky folks who love color and embrace being bold. Learn more about me here!