If there’s one thing I hear from almost every client before their brand photography session, it’s something along the lines of: “I’m so awkward in front of the camera.”
You’re not alone. In fact, it’s one of the biggest reasons people hesitate to finally book their session.
You know it’s time to update your business photos, you want to feel confident about your online presence, and you know professional photos will help your brand grow… yet you can’t stop thinking, “But what if I look stiff? What if I don’t know how to pose? What if I don’t look like myself?”
As a brand photographer in Indianapolis, I get it. Even I put off my own photos sometimes because it’s easier to stay behind the camera. Recently, I scheduled family photos and let me tell you, herding kids into outfits and showing up for the camera isn’t always easy. But here’s what I remembered: the images on the other side are worth it. They tell your story, reflect your season, and capture something that only happens when you choose to show up.
The good news? Feeling “awkward” is completely normal, and it doesn’t have to hold you back. Here’s how I help clients move past it and what you can do to feel confident in your next brand photography and video session.
Your Photographer Should Guide You (It’s Our Job!)
This is the biggest thing I want you to hear: it’s not your job to magically know how to pose, act, or perform in front of the camera. That’s mine.
When you book a brand photography or videography session with me, we start with a planning call to talk through your goals. From there, I create a strategy for your session (locations, outfits, props, and setups) so that nothing feels random. You’ll know there’s a purpose behind every photo we take.
I also send over prep materials like a style guide and tips for what to bring so that you don’t have to guess what works best for your brand. And if you need extra support, I have stylists and makeup artists I can connect you with. That way, you walk in knowing your outfit, hair, and makeup are all dialed in to reflect the brand you’re building.
On session day, I don’t expect you to “just know” what to do. I’ll give you step-by-step posing direction, like where to place your hands, how to sit or stand, and what small adjustments make you look your best. I’ll even fix a stray hair or adjust your outfit if needed. You’re never left wondering what to do next.
When you have a photographer guiding you, the pressure isn’t on you. It’s on us to capture you at your best.
Practical Tips to Feel Less Awkward at Your Photo Session
Alongside working with a photographer who helps you prepare and pose, here are a few simple things you can do to feel more natural:
Wear clothes you feel your best in
Confidence starts with comfort. Choose pieces you love and that fit well. Solid colors, flattering cuts, and options that reflect your brand’s personality always work well.
Bring options
Having a third (or fourth, or fifth) outfit gives you flexibility if something doesn’t feel right on session day.
Practice your smile
It sounds silly, but knowing whether you like a soft smile, a laugh, or something in between makes a difference. Let your photographer know what feels most like you.
Consider hair + makeup
Hiring a stylist means one less thing to worry about and often boosts your confidence before you step in front of the lens.
Trust the process
Remember: awkwardness fades quickly once you get started!
Authenticity Over Perfection
At the end of the day, brand photography and videography isn’t about creating a perfect version of yourself. It’s about capturing the authentic version of your brand. I check in with clients throughout the session, show the back of the camera, and adjust our approach if something doesn’t feel like “you.”
That’s what makes brand photography and video powerful: it’s not about forcing yourself into poses or images that don’t fit. It’s about finding the sweet spot where you feel comfortable and confident, and your audience sees the real person behind your business.
Ready to Stop Putting Brand Photos Off?
If you’ve been putting off your brand photography and video session because you’re worried about feeling awkward, know this: you don’t have to carry that weight alone. The right photographer will guide you, prepare you, and help you feel comfortable every step of the way.
And the photos you walk away with will tell your story, connect with your audience, and give you the confidence to finally show up online the way you’ve always wanted to.
If you’re ready to take that step, I’d love to help. Inquire to learn more about brand photography and videography sessions in Indianapolis, and let’s create images that truly feel like you!
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