What if we're awkward in front of the camera? Tips from a New Zealand Portrait photographer

Auckland & Christchurch Maternity, Family, Engagement and Elopement Photographer

"We're so awkward in photos." “I don’t photograph well.”

These are some things I hear often. Don’t worry, you aren’t the only one. I’m hoping my points below can help at least one of you feel more at ease for your session and turn the anxious nerves into excitement.

You don't need to know how to pose. We aren’t all models.

One of the biggest misconceptions about having professional photos taken is that you need to know exactly what to do in front of the camera..

Trust me when I say. You don’t.

It's my job to guide you every step of the way.

Rather than asking you to stand stiff and smile looking right at the camera, ( we will always get one smiling at the camera hehe ) I'll give you simple prompts that encourage you to interact naturally with each other. Often starting with movement shots like walking hand in hand, looking at your sweet little bebe or sharing a quiet moment. Capturing these little moments create genuine, heartfelt photos that you treasure forever.

The best photos aren't the perfectly posed ones

I LOVE capturing those in between moments. The sibling cuddles, kids playing, the walk between locations when you think the camera is off. ( Here’s a secret, I always keep my camera going so I can snap away throughout the whole session.) These types of photos are the best! They are the ones that show genuine emotion and the love shines through.

It takes time to relax

Starting the session with some movement or group photos can ease you into it. We don’t have to start with the close ups, once you have relaxed into the session and we have got to know each other better we can move onto the closer more personal photos.

Focus on the connection. Not the camera

At the start of the session when we first meet I will run you through roughly how the session will go and what photos we will do at which point. And one thing I always say to my couples and families is that you don’t have to look at the camera. of course we will still get those shots where you are looking straight at me, but otherwise I want you to focus on the connection with each other, or of its maternity then the connection with your bump.

Remember Why You're Here

You're here at the session because you have trusted me to capture a special moment in your life or your growing family. You are not there to be a model, so please enjoy the process and have fun!