Believe it or not, even as a content creator, I still get nervous in front of the camera. It’s a common misconception that once you’re experienced or comfortable being behind or in front of the camera, those nerves magically disappear. The truth is, the camera can be an intimidating, no matter how much experience you have…and I have A LOT!
During my last shoot, the photgrapher asked if I was nervous. Without hesitation, my response was “yep.” lol. I honest and transparent about my feelings, even if it means admitting to being nervous. You never know how they can help you overcome the nervousness, especially if it’s something they do frequently, which in this case , he did. Nervousness is normal human emotion, and there’s no shame in feeling that way.
As a freelance photographer and content creator, I’ve discovered a few tricks that really help me whether I’m shooting with a photographer or as a photographer. These tips not only boost my confidence but also make the whole process more enjoyable and produce better results.
Practice Makes Perfect
The key to nailing a great photo is to practice your posing skills. It may sound simple, but trust me, it’s incredibly effective. By practicing different poses in front of a mirror or with a friend, you’ll become more familiar with how your body looks and feels in various positions. This will boost your confidence and make you feel more at ease during the actual photo shoot. Knowing that you’ve already put in the work and know what works best for you will definitely show in your photos. If you’re looking for inspiration and pose ideas, check out these Instagram accounts: @thecapturequeen and @kimmienicolesmith. They have some amazing poses to help you look your kill your next shoot.
Inspiration from Pinterest
Another tip I’ve found helpful is creating an inspiration board using Pinterest. This platform is a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration for various types of shoots. I create a board specifically for each shoot, collecting images that resonate with the aesthetic or mood I want to achieve. This not only helps me visualize the overall concept but also serves as a reference during the shoot, ensuring that I stay on track and capture the desired look. Below are two boards I created using Pinterest. What I love about this concept is I can share the board with the photographer or client, whatever role I’m in.
Music to Set the Mood
Lastly, music is a must. Music has a powerful effect on our emotions and can significantly impact the energy and atmosphere of a shoot. Before starting, I create a playlist of songs that match the vibe I’m going for. Whether it’s upbeat and energetic or calm and serene, the right music sets the tone and helps me get in the right mindset. I’ve also noticed that when I flow or move my body to the music, it makes the photos appear more natural and effortless. My playlist is a curated mix or reggae, old school r&b, slow jams and of course Beyonce.
If you ever find yourself experiencing those pre-shoot jitters, know that you’re not alone. Embrace the nerves and find what works for you. Remember, being nervous can actually be a stepping stone to creating amazing content. It shows that you care about the outcome and are willing to push through your comfort zone. And in the end, when you look back at the incredible content you’ve created, you’ll realize that those nerves were worth it.
See below of a few photos from my latest shoot. If I must say so myself, we did that!. 💪🎥✨
