News break!
Okay, so maybe you feel awkward in front of the camera, with a Capital A. Yeah, me too! If anyone is going to be awkward and make a fool out of themselves at a photo shoot, it's probably me. So take a deep breath. You will feel like a freaking god or goddess!
As a child, I can remember hiding from the camera every time my mom pulled it out, which frustrated my mom to no end. This was actually one of the biggest reasons why I became a photographer, so I could hide from the camera because it was always there at family events. Psychologically, this seems extremely odd to most. Maybe I need to explore why, or felt called to help others not feel this way. The more I've gotten in behind the camera, the easier it has become.
Are you a visual learner? ME TOO! So let's get started.
Biggest Question that I am sure you're facing when you're at a shoot, wedding or taking a photo of yourself. What on God's green earth do I do with my hands???
Well, this obviously varies from the type of photo shoot you're doing, but a few general rules of thumb. If you're at a couples or family session, it's always important to connect with the people you're with. Touch them (obviously in an appropriate way.)
If you're with someone who you're intimate with: Hold hands with your partner. Lean in for a kiss, while gently pulling them in by their chin. Gently grasp their waste line while swaying in the moment. Feel them. Move with them. Gently trace their jawline. Remove their hair from their eyes and tuck behind their ear. Tuck your hands in your pockets.
Here are some examples from a recent cloudy engagement session in Downtown Lincoln/Haymarket Area. But don't stress about it, because I'm here to guide you!
If you're a mom at pretty much any stage in motherhood, with young children, older child or pregnant as a first time mom, I've also gotchu covered.
Many of the things that you do with your hands are similar to what you'd do with your partner. If we're adding children into the mix at your photo session, I would encourage you to think about what you'd do at home to comfort your children, what you do to show them love and affection.
I know when I'm sitting on the sofa snuggling my girls, I rub my hands on their back, pull their hair out of their face and tuck it behind the ear, wrap my arms around them for a soft embrace and so much more. Take the time before your session and notice what you're typically drawn to.
Here's a maternity session taken at the Lauritzen Gardens in Omaha. (This beautiful dress is inside my client closet and perfect for mama's who are expecting).
If feeling awkward and not knowing what to do with your hands is holding you back, just know you will be guided, prompted, and reminded on what to do. If you found me, you're a kick a** being who is called to connection, emotions, joy, embracing the imperfections and savorer of love. So just book the dang session!
