“I never know what to do with my hands.”
“I always look stiff in pictures.”
“I’m not photogenic.”
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. These are some of the most common phrases I hear from people — even confident, successful, interesting people — right before I start taking their portraits.
Here’s the truth: most people feel unsure in front of the camera. That doesn’t mean you’re awkward or unphotogenic. It just means you haven’t had the right experience yet.
You’re Not Supposed to Know How to Pose
Unless you’re a full-time model, no one expects you to walk into a portrait session knowing exactly how to stand, smile, turn your head, shift your shoulders, or place your fingers. That’s not your job — that’s mine.
You don’t need to study Pinterest poses. You don’t need to rehearse in front of a mirror.
You just need to show up as yourself. I’ll guide you through the rest.
And no — I don’t mean stiff, robotic instructions. I work with people in a natural, conversational way. Most of the time, you won’t even realize I’m “posing” you. It will feel more like you’re simply moving, breathing, connecting — and I’m there, quietly capturing it.
The First Few Minutes Always Feel a Bit Weird (And That’s Okay)
We’re so used to candid iPhone photos or selfies that being photographed by someone else — especially a professional — can feel vulnerable. The first few minutes might feel unfamiliar or even a little awkward.
That’s normal.
I always begin sessions slowly. We walk a little, talk a little. I give you space to relax, and I make sure you never feel rushed. No pressure, no spotlights. Just you and a soft rhythm that allows your natural expression to surface.
By the time the first 10 minutes pass, most people forget they were ever nervous.
I’ll Guide You the Whole Time (Gently and Honestly)
Some people worry I’ll expect them to “perform” or pose like a model. That’s not how I work.
I’ll suggest small adjustments:
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“Shift your weight slightly to the back leg.”
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“Drop the shoulder just a bit.”
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“Tilt your chin toward the light.”
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“Relax your hands — hold your fingers like you’re gently holding a feather.”
These aren’t instructions to make you someone else — they’re tools to help you feel more like yourself in the photo. And if something feels unnatural? We change it. Simple as that.
Your comfort always comes first.
Real Emotion Over Perfect Posing
The best images — the ones you’ll love the most — rarely come from perfect poses. They come from real moments. A laugh. A soft breath. A moment of eye contact. That’s where the magic happens.
I watch for those moments between the poses — the small in-between movements that say more than anything rehearsed. That’s where you live. And that’s what I aim to capture.
I Adapt the Session to You
Some people are naturally expressive, others more reserved. Some are playful, others calm. I never expect you to fit into a certain mold. Instead, I adapt the session to fit your energy and personality.
If you’re quiet and introspective, I’ll match that energy. If you’re bold and vibrant, we’ll create space for that to shine. There is no “right way” to be in front of the camera — only your way.
What If You Still Feel Unsure?
That’s okay. Being in front of the camera is an act of courage. It’s not always easy to let yourself be seen. But it’s always worth it.
You don’t have to fake confidence. You don’t have to know what to do.
All you need to do is show up — and trust me to guide you.
Most of my clients tell me afterward,
“That was easier than I expected.”
“I actually had fun.”
“I didn’t know I could look like that.”
And those reactions? That’s why I love what I do.
Ready to Feel More Comfortable in Front of the Camera?
If you’ve ever hesitated to book a session because you don’t know how to pose — this is your sign. You don’t need to change who you are or wait until you’re more confident. You just need someone who knows how to see you, guide you, and capture the real you — naturally.
I’d love to help you do exactly that. Portrait sessions in Austin, Texas. Relaxed. Real. No pressure. Just beautiful, honest photos of you — being you.
Let’s make something timeless together.
