6 Things To Do If You Hate Having Your Photo Taken (From a Brand Photographer Who Gets It)

If you're a female founder investing in brand photography, personal branding photos, or a branding photoshoot for your business, but secretly hate being in front of the camera… you’re not alone.

So many of the women I photograph feel exactly the same before their shoot.

They worry they’ll look awkward.
They think they need to feel confident first.
Or they tell themselves they’ll book brand photos “when they look the part.”

But that’s not how it works.

Instagram makes it seem like everyone else is naturally confident, polished and effortlessly photogenic. The truth is much simpler. Most people feel a little nervous at first. Confidence tends to arrive after you start showing up, not before.

And the people you want to work with? They’re waiting to see you.

Your dream clients connect with the person behind the brand. When they can see you, they trust you faster. When you keep putting off updated photos, you’re also delaying the visibility that brings new opportunities.

So if you’re someone who genuinely hates having your photo taken, here are a few small things that make a huge difference.

1. Put on a playlist that shifts your energy

Music changes everything. The right playlist loosens the mood instantly and helps you relax into the moment instead of overthinking every frame. It’s the first thing I do at every one of my shoots!

2. Dress for confidence

Wear something that feels like you, but elevated. If you’re unsure, getting guidance beforehand makes the process so much easier and removes that last-minute panic.

3. Hold something if your hands feel awkward

This is one of the easiest tricks. A coffee cup, your phone, a notebook, your glasses. Having something small to interact with instantly makes your body feel more natural.

4. Practice a few poses beforehand

You don’t need to become a professional model, but familiarising yourself with a couple of simple poses helps your body feel less stiff when the camera comes out. And although it may feel cringe, no one will see you do it and no one needs to know!

5. Work with a photographer who guides you

You should never feel like you’ve been left alone to figure it out. The right photographer will guide you through movement, posture and subtle shifts so you never feel awkward or unsure what to do.

6. Keep moving

The stiff, awkward look usually comes from standing completely still. Small movements, shifting your weight, walking, adjusting your hair, turning slightly. These little changes create photos that feel relaxed and natural.

Remember;

You don’t need to be perfect - you just need to be visible.

The women you admire online didn’t wake up one day feeling completely ready either. They simply started showing up.

So the next time you feel yourself talking out of being in front of the camera, come back to this.

Your business deserves to be seen.
And so do you.

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