4 Tips for Helping People Relax in Front of the Camera

Photography Tips

One of the hardest parts of portrait photography is getting your nervous subjects to look natural. Jasmine Star, an international photographer who specializes in wedding photography, has had her share of experiences with uncomfortable clients. In this video, she expands on how she attempts to make her clients comfortable with the camera during her shoots:

1. Give your clients time to relax.

Start off your shoot by striking a conversation. Ask how their day has been going or compliment their attire. The more comfortable your client is with you as a photographer, the more natural your shots will look in the end.

2. Explain how the photo shoot will work.

Discuss the process of the shoot. The less that is left up to the imagination, the better. This provides a stress-free environment and makes sure that both you and your clients are on the same page.

3. Be specific when giving instructions.

Often times, photographers give general commands such as, “Act natural!” The more specific you are in your instructions, the more comfortable your client will feel. Tell your subject exactly what to do.

4. Have clients move into a pose.

Once you’ve posed a client, have them relax from this pose and then move back into the pose again. This causes the shot to look less stiff and posed—and more natural.

“I firmly believe it’s not the client’s responsibility to look comfortable; it’s the photographer’s responsibility to get them where they want.”