4 Tips to Getting Comfortable in Front of the Camera

It can be uncomfortable to get in front of a camera when it feels like unfamiliar territory to you. A million thoughts can race through your mind.

Is this the correct pose?
Am I positioning my body in a flattering way?
Are my hair, shirt, and jewelry laying properly?
Do I look as uncomfortable as I feel?

I'm no stranger to feeling discomfort when it feels like all eyes are on me, so I've compiled a few tips on how to get comfortable when it's your turn to be in front of the camera.
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1. Breathe

This may sound simple, but preparing a few breathing exercises beforehand can help you in moments of discomfort. There are many different types of breathing techniques that can calm your nervous system and alleviate stress. A few that I find most helpful are:
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• Take in seven quick breaths using your diaphragm and slowly breathe out through your nose for seven seconds
  
  
• Breathe in through your nose for ten seconds, hold for five seconds, and breathe out of your mouth for ten seconds. Be sure to use your diaphragm for this one, too!
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• Close your eyes and feel your feet flat on the ground. Slowly breathe in using your diaphragm and imagine you're filling your body with air, starting with your toes and filling all the way to the top of your head. Slowly release your breath and imagine the air flowing down from the top of your head back down to your toes. Repeat this as many times as necessary.

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2. Move Around and Stretch it Out!

Movement is an incredible way to help regulate the nervous system. One of my favorite ways to calm down and increase blood flow is to stretch it out. When we feel nervous, our bodies tense up. Stretching can relieve that tension and help clear your mind of any uncertainties that may be bugging you. 

You can also calm your nerves with more intense, brief movement such as  jumping jacks, dancing, or taking a quick jog around our location. It's especially important to have a silly moment like this if you have nervous or excited kiddos. Invite them to jump around or dance before your shoot to get some beautifully candid moments. I may even join you in the silliness!
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3. Embrace the Moment

Maybe getting everyone ready for your shoot was stressful. Or perhaps the ride over was less-than pleasant. We've all been there. As you step out of your car, start fresh with a brand new moment and remember all the amazing and wonderful things about each member of your family. Think of how you fell in love with your spouse, your child's shining moment on the baseball field, or the incredible family vacation you recently took where you all had the time of your lives. 

Enjoy your photo session and recall as many positive memories as you can. Try to live in the moment by focusing on positive, loving experiences you've all shared. 
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4. Have Fun!

​Don't take yourself or your family too seriously at our shoots. I want to capture the true essence of your family, not produce stale photos that don't do your clan justice. Be free to goof off, tell jokes, and reminisce on sweet times with your loved ones. 

Something I often tell RJM clients is that, it doesn't matter how gorgeous our photos turn out. If you're having a miserable time then you will never look fondly on the images we capture. So take a load off and have a good time!

At the end of the day, I want you to love your families and love your images. Show up to your session feeling free to be yourself and have an amazing time. Don't come to perform or get "the perfect shot." Each picture will turn out to be a masterpiece when you allow yourself to show up and have an incredible time. 
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​Rachel Jean Media is a creative media company serving the Greater Lafayette Area. We partner with small businesses to create advertising and media products to promote their services. 

To connect with us please visit our website. You can also follow Rachel Jean Media on Facebook and Instagram.