Feeling confident in photos is something a lot of people struggle with. Heck I struggled with it for a long time, to the extent that there’s a good year or two of my life where not a single photo of my exists.

That’s the part that makes me said, while I wasn’t feeling a 100% for those years, now that I deal feel good in myself I’m sad that I let that feeling stop me from being in family photos, friends photos, selfies, anything that involved a camera.

So here are my tried and true steps for feeling more confident in front of the camera (just in case you might be nervous about your upcoming shoot).

Get to know your photographer

If you’re working with a professional photographer, take time to read their blog, look through their website and social media accounts. You’ll get a much better understanding of your photographers style and the different people and families they’ve photographed.

This will help you get to know your photographer before you even meet them, understanding their style and the types of photos they’re likely to capture.

Have fun

While easier said than done in most cases, this is key to having a relaxed session. It’s important to have fun because it really comes through in the images. Get a bit silly, have a laugh and try not to overthink everything that’s happening.

Wear something comfortable that you feel good in

I’ve made this mistake myself. Wearing an outfit I think looks good but I feel so uncomfortable in I was constantly pulling my top down, checking my bra strap wasn’t showing, it makes you distracted and takes away from the fun.

Wear an outfit you know is comfortable and always makes you feel good!

Ignore the rest of the world

If you’re getting photos in the outdoors, chances are there will be other people around, be prepared for that. At the same time – ignore them. Don’t feel put off by people watching you, chances are they just think it’s lovely you’re having photos taken.

Fake it till you make it

My favourite saying because I use it so often myself! If you don’t feel confident – pretend you are! Smile even though you don’t feel like it, laugh even though the joke isn’t funny and chill if things don’t go to plan.

Pretending that you’re confident in yourself will more often than not make you actually feel confident.