Standing in front of a camera can be overwhelming for many people. The pressure to “look good” for corporate headshots or personal portraits often leads to stiff poses and forced smiles. That said, the secret to great photos isn’t about perfection. It’s about feeling relaxed and confident. If you have a photoshoot coming up, here are some simple tips to help you look and feel like the best version of yourself. 

Get to Know Your Photographer 

Getting comfortable with your photographer will help create a safe environment for you to be authentic. Start by chatting with them about your goals, concerns, and ideas. Whether it’s your first photoshoot or your tenth, an experienced photographer, like those at MG Marshall Photography, will guide you through the process. Their job is to make you look your best, so lean on their expertise and enjoy the collaboration. 

Move and Loosen Up Your Body 

The best way to tackle stiff poses is to literally shake it off. Stretch, roll your shoulders, or even do a little dance to loosen up before your session. If it helps, you can even ask the photographer if they can play some of your favorite tunes during the shoot. Moving your body helps release tension and promotes more natural, relaxed poses. Remember, just a small shift in posture can completely change the energy of a photo. 

Break the Ice with Conversation 

A little small talk can go a long way in easing your nerves. Chatting about something unrelated to the shoot, like a recent movie or shared hobbies, can help you relax and get out of your own head. This can help you forget about the camera in front of you and focus on the moment. Much like loosening up your body, engaging in relaxed conversations helps maintain natural body language, making you appear less self-conscious. 

Practice Gentle Facial Expressions 

Nothing ruins a photo faster than a forced smile. Instead, practice soft, natural expressions in front of a mirror. Observe how your face looks when you're relaxed and at ease. Then, think of something that genuinely makes you happy. This can be a favorite memory or a funny joke you love. Let those real emotions guide your expression. Authentic feelings will shine through in your photos, making them feel effortless and less posed. 

Trust the Photographer’s Direction 

Aside from being your most authentic self, your photographer is your next best weapon to look amazing in every shot. Trust your photographer’s pointers as they know what they’re doing! They have an expert eye for finding your best angles, suggesting flattering poses, and making adjustments to create a polished final image. Professional photographers have all kinds of tricks to help you look your best, so relax and let them lead. 

Don’t Focus on the Final Outcome 

It’s easy to stress about getting the “perfect” shot, but letting go of that pressure can actually improve your photos. Instead of fixating on the end result, shift your mindset and treat the photoshoot as an opportunity to celebrate yourself and have fun. Think of it as your chance to try something new, play with your own style, or simply enjoy being in the spotlight. Trust the process, and you’ll end up with images that truly reflect your personality. 

At MG Marshall Photography, we’re all about making you feel relaxed, confident, and authentically you. Our sessions are tailored to your needs, and our experienced photographers will guide you every step of the way. Whether you need business headshots or acting portfolio shots, we make sure the process is enjoyable and stress-free. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you look and feel your best.