When you’re considering booking a photo session, you might feel nervous about being in front of the camera. Being on camera isn’t an every-day experience for most people and it’s completely normal to have some anxiety about the unknown. Even those who are photographed often can have a hard time adjusting to a photo session.

But there are several things you can do to make your time in front of the camera as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. Which serves the dual purpose of creating the most natural and flattering final portraits.

Here are our best tips for being in front of the camera as family photographers in Huntsville, Alabama.

1. Book someone you trust

This one begins before you ever set foot at a session, yet it is the number one thing you can do to feel comfortable in front of the camera.

As you’re researching photographers in the area, make sure to check out more than just their portfolio. Here are few things you can ask yourself to help you decide:

• Does their client experience sound like the kind of process that would make you and your family comfortable?

• Have you been able to get a sense of their personality from their social media? Scroll through the reels on their profile and keep an eye out for stories

• where they might be talking to the camera!

• Do your values align? This one may seem excessive, but knowing you hold similar beliefs can go far in building trust.
  
  
  

2. Plan to be doing an activity

This can be something as simple as keeping yourself grounded by holding your partner’s hand or as extravagant as a family picnic surrounded by hot air balloons.

No matter what you choose, a simple (or complex!) activity gives you a purpose. It keeps your mind on the present rather than the camera. Plus, it answers the age-old photoshoot question: “What do I do with my hands?”

We like to plan our sessions around an activity. Think visiting a coffee shop, blowing bubbles, exploring a park, visiting a local event (this hot air balloon festival was so beautiful!), or arranging flowers. Our clients receive a whole list of fun session activities to consider in their Welcome Magazine when they book!

3. Get closer than you think—even if it feels weird

In the movie industry, they say the camera adds ten pounds. We find that to be true, but in a weird sort of way.

As close as you may feel like you’re positioned next to your partner or children, any small gap will be exaggerated by the camera. Awkward spacing can make portraits look uncomfortable and cold.

Our best advice? When you think you’re close enough together, get a little closer. If it feels a little silly, let yourself laugh about it. It will look natural and cohesive on camera. :)

And to take it a step further…

4. Always be touching someone

Whether that’s a hand on your partners arm or a kiss on your daughter’s cheek. Create intentional contact at all times if you can. If you can’t be touching someone, at least be looking at someone.

Those moments of connection and interaction will give you something to focus on. Plus, it will create beautiful, real moments that you’ll love looking back on.

5. Don’t look at the camera unless we tell you to

This one can be counterintuitive. If you’re in front of a camera, you should be smiling and saying “cheese!”, right??

Not necessarily! Depending on your goals for the session, the best course of action is often to ignore the camera as much as possible. Don’t break the fourth wall!

As a more documentary-style family photographer, we begin each session with a “cheese!”-at-the-camera portrait. But once that portrait is checked off, we encourage clients to focus on each other rather than the camera! Many of our client’s favorite images are those “in-between” moments where loved ones are interacting with each other rather than the camera.

Lastly, and arguably, most importantly….

6. Embrace the chaos

Photo sessions with kids can often feel more chaotic than you expect. Our best advice to you is to lean in!

Your kiddos are trying to jump into puddles? Jump with them! Your kiddos can’t seem to get the wiggles out? Play tag with them!

Joining in on the fun can create fun and extremely meaningful portraits that are a joy to look back on. No matter how involved you get with the chaos, at least let yourself relax and try to have fun.

And if you book an experienced photographer, they will be more than prepared for the chaos that comes raising little ones. We don’t expect your children to be anything other than that—children!

We hope these tips help you prepare for the next time you’re in front of the camera! And if you’re looking for a family photographer in Huntsville for your own portrait session, read more about the Fauna & Film Experience here or reach out today to find out if we are a good fit.

If you’re an expecting mother with a little one on the way, check out these 3 reasons your whole family belongs in your maternity photos, or our maternity style guide. For Huntsville locals, you might want to check out our list of Activities To Do In Huntsville With Kids or Indoor Birthday Party Ideas For Kids In Huntsville.

Fauna & Film are photographers based in North Alabama specializing in analog portraits and nostalgic home movies for sentimental couples and families in Huntsville, Alabama and the Tennessee Valley. From bespoke heirloom albums to custom, museum-worthy framed artwork, their passion is to serve clients by designing artwork for them that will last generations. Your memories deserve to be seen.

Currently serving Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and beyond.