How Do I Stop Being Awkward in Photos?

Things to Do to Feel Comfortable (and Stop Being Awkward) During a Family Photography Session

“I am so awkward in photos,” they said. Or, “We’ve never done this before,” they claimed.

I get it.

Being in photographs can feel weird. What do I do with my hands? Where do I look? Should I smile or not?

As a photographer, it is my job to help you feel great during our family photography sessions! Luckily I am pretty nerdy and chat the whole time to make everyone feel as comfortable as possible.

But, let me give you some ideas to help you to stop being awkward in family photos.

• • • Work with a photographer you feel comfortable around.

      One of the best things you can do to stop feeling awkward in family photos is to choose a photographer you like and trust. You want to feel comfortable and relaxed with your photographer. I’m laid-back during a session and love to learn about my clients while we photograph. I’m a little nerdy and tell a couple bad jokes during our time together.

  • • Plan ahead.

      Choose your outfits in advance. (And feel free to email or text me outfit ideas–I am more than happy to give you input!) Do your hair and make-up if that floats your boat. Bring water to a session. Taking care of these details while help give you confidence, which will help combat nerves.

      Helpful outfit links:
      Colorado Family Photo Outfit Ideas
      Outfit Tips for a Cold Weather Photography Session
      Colorado Maternity Photography with Photo Session Outfit Ideas

  • Walking photos!

    After years of photographing people, I have discovered one of the best ways to ease into a photography session. Walk. I’ll have my people walk to the camera looking at it. I’ll have my people walk to the camera looking off yonder. I’ll have my people holding hands and walking. I’ll have my people swinging kiddos and walking. Direction helps you be in the moment and takes your mind out of your head a bit!

• • Other movement-based photos

    Other movement-based direction helps you stop being awkward.

    Families with small children have it easy–we can play games like telephone, running to parents, spinning around…so many options to create fun that bring you into the present moment and out of your head.

    For families with teens or adults, I may actually ask you to do a group hug. Or tell you my bad jokes.

• • Limbs!

    Not sure where to put your hands? How to stand?I am always trying to tell my clients what to do (and if I am not directing, that means you are perfect!). But, when in doubt, feel free to cross your arms or put a hand in a pocket. (I suggest putting your thumb in your pocket so that we see the rest of you hand.)If there is a structure near you, feel free to lean up against it. If there isn’t, putting your weight on your back leg is something you can think about.

  • You do not need to memorize any of this–I am just giving you some tidbits to help you stop being awkward. I will guide you throughout our time together!