What I've Learned from Teaching Photography Tips
Cass wasn’t sure what to do with her hands. I guided her into leaning into the table so her posture and the angle for her body were perfect.
Over the past few years, I've transitioned from simply taking photos to teaching others how to feel confident in front of the camera. Sharing my knowledge has been a fulfilling, sometimes surprising journey, and it's taught me just as much as I've passed on to others.
Keeping a thumb out of your pocket is an essential tip. Otherwise, your hand will look weird and tense.
Confidence Comes from Connection
My biggest lesson over these past few years is that confidence in front of the camera isn't based on one specific thing. Knowing your angles and what poses you look best in a photo is essential, but having trust in your photographer is paramount. The key to a successful portrait is moving comfortably without feeling like a complete peanut. Empathy as a photographer is vital to confidence in front of my camera.
The Power of Simple Posing Tips
While initially worried about overwhelming people with technical advice, I quickly realised that small, actionable tips make a huge difference. Simple adjustments can transform a pose, like relaxing the shoulders, tilting the chin slightly, or shifting weight to one leg. These tips seem apparent to me as a professional, but seeing someone light up when they see the results reminds me how valuable this knowledge is.
Women Over 40 Want to Be Seen
Through teaching and photographing women over 40, I've discovered how much they value being indeed seen. Many of my clients share that they've avoided being in photos for years, feeling disconnected from the version of themselves they see in pictures. Teaching them small techniques to embrace their natural beauty and personality has reinforced how empowering photography can be. It's not just about the final image—it's about helping them see themselves in a new light.
Educating has built my confidence, too.
I've had moments of doubt in my career, wondering if my offer is still relevant or valuable. But hearing feedback from clients and viewers on TikTok—people who've tried my advice and felt more confident—has reminded me of photography's impact.
People Crave Permission to Be Themselves
A recurring theme in my work is reassuring people that they don't need to be perfect. Whether addressing the fear of being "not photogenic" or the self-consciousness of aging, my role is often to permit them to be exactly who they are. It's been humbling to see how transformative this message can be, and it's made me reflect on how I show up in my own life.
The Value of Sharing Freely
While I've struggled to balance giving away free advice and protecting my intellectual property, I've found that generosity often comes back tenfold. For example, tips on TikTok have connected me with people I wouldn't have reached otherwise. They've also challenged me to refine my knowledge and think critically about what matters in a portrait session.
Teaching Is a Collaboration
Finally, I've learned that teaching isn't a one-way street. Every time I guide someone, they teach me something in return—a fresh perspective on posing, or they have even just a spark of inspiration to try something new.
If you need more help, sign up for my course here. It contains all of my tips and tricks and much more.
