How to Feel Natural in Front of the Camera (Even If You Hate Photos)

Let’s start with the obvious: if you’re here, you probably hate being photographed. Maybe you’re the one who ducks out of group photos or strikes the most awkward pose known to man the minute a camera comes out. I get it. I’ve heard every line in the book—“I’m awkward,” “I don’t know what to do with my hands,” “Can you Photoshop me into someone cooler?” I’m here to tell you that not only is it possible to feel natural during a shoot, but it’s also a lot easier than you’d think. Yes, even for you.

First tip? Forget about the whole “being photogenic” thing. Photogenic is just a fancy way of saying “willing to laugh like a real human and not a stock image.” We’re not after cookie-cutter, angle-perfect smiles here. Hell no. My goal is to capture you, as in the person your friends see when you’re two drinks deep and cackling at the bar. The one who’s not worried about perfecting some nonexistent “photo face.” Relax, get into your groove, and let that natural, unique energy shine.

Now, let’s talk movement. Nothing makes you look stiffer than trying to stand like you’re in a fucking Sears portrait studio. (Spoiler: I’m not that kind of photographer, and this isn’t the ‘80s.) Walk, talk, fidget with your hair, pull your partner in close—whatever feels good. Movement isn’t the enemy here; it’s actually what makes you look like you. The more you do things you’d normally do—like telling your person a bad joke or throwing them a “we’re ridiculous” look—the more you’ll actually forget I’m there. Which, let’s be real, is exactly what we want.

Another trick? Bring your favorite playlist. Yes, we’re bringing the tunes, and yes, we’re making it loud. The right song can pull you out of your head and into the moment faster than any “just relax” pep talk could. Don’t be shy about creating the vibe that feels best for you, whether that’s head-bobbing indie or belt-it-out ballads. Trust me, by song three, you won’t even notice me clicking away—you’ll be too busy lip-syncing like no one’s watching.

And let’s clear one thing up: you don’t need to pose. Leave the posing to me. I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that’ll bring out the real, unfiltered, goofy, perfect you without you even realizing it’s happening. If you’ve got a favorite look or moment you want to capture, great—tell me. But otherwise? Let me steer. This isn’t about plastering on a smile; it’s about you getting comfortable enough to forget the camera’s there at all. By the end of it, I promise, you’ll be surprised at just how natural you can look without trying to. We’ll make some real-deal memories, and you’ll have photos that actually look like you—awkward dance moves, snort laughs, and all. Let’s get started!