Easier said than done, but I can testify to the power of owning who you are in front of the camera and aside from the camera. Take a pause and see if this scenario resonates with you….
You’re working long hours and trying to balance your family with your career and your personal life. Sacrifices are made and a few extra cupcakes are eaten to get you through your busy days. Maybe you weigh more than you did last month or you’ve developed some dark circles from your restless nights. You notice these things in passing, but it’s not until someone whips out a camera and snaps a photo that you feel like running away and hiding.
I hear you, girl.
We’ve all been there, but that’s something that we should put a stop to. In front of the camera to behind the camera, I can offer some tips and tricks on how to own it and be proud of who you are.
Quirks, not flaws
Rule #1: You do not have flaws or blemishes. You have quirks and beauty marks and qualities and expressions. These are the things that make you who you are. A scar or a wrinkle is a physical representation of life in your own body. It’s part of your unique story—OWN IT.
Smile for real
Smiling for the camera can be tough… it’s normal to feel a little weird at first! Have you ever found yourself forgetting how you smile naturally? You might wonder how to look into the camera or how to relax while also striking a cool pose. I’ve always struggled with it myself, so one of my goals when you come into my studio is to help you pose and feel relaxed. That way, we can capture your most genuine smile.
Make sure you’re fully comfortable with your photographer. Coming from someone who has been in the industry for years, I recommend always having a consultation with your photographer to make sure you’re on the same page—and to make sure that you’re 1000% comfortable with her or him!
Your photographer should be able to pull out that smile and make you feel like you’re in the comfort of your own home. You should be laughing in the studio and having a fun day for you to fully be yourself. When clients come into my studio, I just want them to have a great time.
The impact on those around you
Believe it or not, embracing this idea has a positive impact on your friends and family. You can be a role model for your daughter, your niece, your sister, or your mom, and many, many more. You can empower them to love the way they look and teach them to be comfortable in front of the camera. After all, your photos document who you are at that time in your life. Do it for yourself and do it for your family!
Do it for future generations of women, showing them that you love yourself and they can too.
Don’t wait
Don’t wait to get your photo taken! Your best body is today’s body, and 5 years from now, that body will be your best body. Photography is about capturing the present moment, so free your mind and soul to let your present moment be captured.
