Let’s talk about camera shyness and how to overcome it. Photography is for the camera shy people too, and I’m here to tell you why!
Lots of people may be carrying around the label “camera shy.” Perhaps they’ve never scheduled a session, or they avoid looking at the camera. I think photography can still be a powerful art medium for these folks too. I speak from personal experience. I’m one of the most camera-shy people around!
Photography is for everyone. It is not just for extroverted would-be models, (even though sometimes it feels that way).
4 Reasons Why People Experience Camera Shyness
What’s behind the aversion? Probably a good place to start is by asking this question. There’s no one single reason for being “camera shy.” You can talk to 10 different people who label themselves as such and get 10 different answers. But, here are a few common themes that come up.
1) Bodily Autonomy
Some “camera shyness” really just comes down to bodily autonomy and preferences. You may have had an experience with a studio photographer, for example, who adjusted your shoulders, grabbed your chin, or placed your hands to achieve a certain pose.
This kind of posing can be highly uncomfortable or unwanted for some people, understandably so! For people who would prefer to not be posed or touched, my candid style of photography may be a better fit.
2) Body Image
What a loaded topic. Just about everyone I know has a hang-up of some kind. Some are better equipped to push through it than others though. I’ve designed my own session experiences for those of us who have a harder time.
From the confidence-boosting consultation to the magic of beautiful storytelling photos, to flattering blur and motion, and beyond —I do everything in my power so you can focus on enjoying the moment and memories made.
3) Clothing for Confidence
Even the most modelesque among us can take a confidence hit when they don’t feel comfortable in their clothes. Nothing can quite put someone on edge like having to pick outfits for photos that will live on our walls or albums for years to come. I get it!
I’ve prepared for these situations as well, by including a personalized in-home consultation to talk over the details. We’re going for maximum confidence, down to the thread.
For a head start, check out my pro tips on what to wear to a photo session.
4) We are Normal People
While I try to make sessions as fun, empowering, comfortable and low pressure as possible, sometimes, we just don’t want to be photographed. No real reason- maybe shyness is part of our personality, or we’re just not feeling it. That’s ok, and normal.
In some cases, it may still mean a gorgeous candid session. After all, people have many sides to them. We aren’t all smiles and giggles all the time. We have dimension, and dimension is beautiful!
I also like to build in breaks for each person during a session. Sometimes all we need is a moment to reset.
Wherever “camera shyness” really comes from, know I respect and appreciate it for what it is. Photography can work for everyone, including the camera shy.
Be sure to check out these tips before you schedule a photography session:
Looking for a Family Photographer?
If you’re looking for a professional Phoenix photographer that can help you overcome your camera shyness, I’m here for you! I offer in-home family candids in Phoenix, Arizona. You can reach out to book a session here!
