3 Reasons Why Being Photogenic Doesn't Matter

Ellie Goulding, looks like a grecian princess in this Rolling Stone Australia shoot.

If I had a dollar for every time I heard, "I hate having my photo taken, or I'm so uncomfortable in front of the camera", I would be a millionaire!

 1. It's the photographer's job to make you feel comfortable!

The central part of a photographer's job is to make you feel comfortable and secure in front of the lens. So as soon as I meet my subject, I like to chat with them; it's my way of finding out how they feel on that day before the camera is in their face. You see, it's all about the vibe, and if you aren't vibing together, it isn't going to work in anyone's favour. I love this part of my job; breaking down those barriers with a new person is my forte. I'm super nosy, so I ask loads of questions about the person. Some don't come to the party and want me to stop talking and get it over and done, but that's the worst way to go about an intimate session like a portrait. If the photographer doesn't make you feel comfortable, then tell them that communication is vital in creating a great image.

James Kennedy from SJB giving me the relaxed lean in his office kitchen.

2.  It's the photographer's job to create the perfect scene and lighting.

Photography is pretty technical; lighting and depth of field are essential elements in making a beautiful portrait. When setting up my image, I always look for a neutral background that will not distract from the subject and one that will stand the test of time. Because I usually assume my clients will be using the portrait for a couple of years, the best way for it not to date is to keep it simple. I'm not fond of a picture in a distracting or busy environment. Keeping the subject away from the background or using the correct depth of field is the best way to achieve this effect—the professional way of using portrait mode on your iPhone.

3.     Your body position is everything.

I give my subjects loads of directions on standing, sitting, and what to do with their hands. You can always tell how someone feels in their photo by their hands, and it's essential to shake off any tension in them or put them in your pockets if you can't! Also, remembering to breathe is an integral part of feeling comfortable. Imagine if you were about to speak in front of a crowd and forgot to breathe. It would be not easy to talk. Well, it's the same as having your photograph taken; you can't have a relaxed portrait taken if you are holding your breath! So make sure you breathe. Being completely still is another big no-no in a photo. If you stay still, you look like a statue! It's best to keep moving; tiny micro-movements are your best option, you may feel like a complete peanut, but it's the best way to find the best expression and position.

So you see, you don't need to be photogenic to look great in a photo! Leave it with the professional photographer to do that for you; bring your personality, remember to breathe, and keep moving.

 If you still have a concern or question for me, click here to set up a time here to discuss.