What do I do with my hands?
“What do I do with my hands?”
“We’re not really a photos couple.”
These are phrases I frequently come across. Whilst they may seem obvious to me, I understand that having your photograph taken can feel a little awkward, almost unwanted, if you’re not used to it.
So, here are a few tips on how not to freeze up and look like you’re facing the firing squad whilst I take a photo of you.
Movement is important
Feeling at ease and relaxed, and taking your shoulders down from your ears, is paramount to looking great on camera.
Whilst photography may not be a requirement for some people, it is lovely to capture poignant moments and milestones in life. Or perhaps you need that all-important press shot for your panel talk, your business profile, your LinkedIn, or your dating profile on Hinge.
Put your best foot forward. Let’s try and get you looking comfortable, not glassy-eyed or like a serial killer.
Having been in the online dating app world myself, I know a thing or two about how not to attract people. This may well be another blog LOL
First things first: breathe!
The first thing I would recommend is blowing out your face with a big pffff, like a puffer fish.
Seriously. Give it a go.
It’s a little reset that helps you stop tensing every muscle you didn’t even know you had. Relax your face, drop your shoulders and give yourself permission to stop thinking quite so hard about what you look like.
Having a bit of a giggle and feeling at ease can help enormously. And I am not recommending a shot of vodka.*
You don’t always have to look at the camera
You can look off into the distance or just to one side. It can give you that aspirational, hero-shot kind of image and takes away some of the feeling that you’re being stared at directly by the person looking at the photograph.
Looking away from the lens can make a portrait feel more candid, reflective or editorial. It can soften the feeling of being scrutinised and give the photograph a different sort of energy.
Of course, looking directly into the camera can be brilliant, too. Sometimes that direct eye contact is exactly what gives a photograph its confidence.
The point is, you have options. You don’t have to stare down the lens in every single photograph.
HANDS! Well, we need them…
A thumb in a jeans pocket, the teapot – my go-to pose since 1984 (I’ve actually trademarked it) – or the “I’ve got a headache” / Craig David album-cover pose.
They all work insanely well – maybe not for a wedding portrait, though…
Gazing into each other’s eyes, giggling, nestling on a shoulder… to me, they all signal love, unity and companionship.
Now that’s romantic!
I’m more than happy to help achieve photographs that convey comfort and ease with gentle direction.
Don’t forget the internet and Pinterest have a world of images that you can screenshot and turn into a moodboard. Get a feel for how you’d like to look, whether that’s for a portrait session or on your big day.
We don’t have to make an exact copy, but it can help soothe any worries. And if the pose doesn’t work, we move on rather than remaining rigid with our wishlist. 😉
You’re gonna look FAB! Oh, and don’t forget to breathe…*
* This can go badly wrong.
If you’re looking for portraits that feel natural rather than stiff and overly posed, take a look at my portrait photography in London.
Planning a small wedding? Find out more about my registry office wedding photography.
And for a little more photography myth-busting, have a read of Don’t Shake It!
A few things worth remembering
You don’t need to know how to pose
That’s my job. I’ll offer gentle direction and help you find positions that feel comfortable and look good.
You have options
Looking at the camera, looking away, moving around or having a giggle can all create different results. There’s no single right way to look in a photograph.
It’s fine to feel awkward
You don’t have to arrive feeling confident or photogenic. The aim is to help you relax and create photographs that feel like you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I’m really awkward in front of the camera?
That’s absolutely fine. Lots of people feel uncomfortable having their photograph taken, particularly if they’re not used to it. I’ll give you gentle direction, help you relax and suggest things to do so you’re not left wondering what on earth to do with your hands. And remember, even Naomi Campbell had to start somewhere — no one is born knowing their angles! 😉
Do you tell me how to pose?
Yes. I’ll suggest different positions and help you find what feels natural. If something isn’t working, we’ll try something else. There’s no need to force yourself into a pose that feels ridiculous.
Can we have natural-looking photographs rather than lots of posed ones?
Absolutely. Movement, conversation, laughter and looking away from the camera can all help create relaxed, natural-looking photographs. We can also include more directed portraits if that’s the look you’re after.
Can you photograph couples who aren’t used to having their picture taken together?
Of course. You don’t need to arrive knowing how to gaze lovingly into each other’s eyes on command. I’ll help you feel comfortable together and capture photographs that reflect your connection.
What should I wear for a portrait session?
Wear something you feel good in and that suits the look you’re after. If you’re unsure, we can discuss clothing and styling before the shoot, so you feel prepared rather than panicked in front of your wardrobe.
How do I book a photography session with Twiggles?
Get in touch through the Twiggles contact page and tell me a little about what you’re looking for. We can discuss the type of shoot, location and pricing, then work out the next steps.