Why Awkwardness is Part of the Process (and Why It's a Good Thing)

Let's be honest, being in front of a camera can feel weird. You're suddenly hyper-aware of your face, your posture, and what to do with your hands. I remember in my first headshot session I could feel all my facial muscles in isolation down to my nostrils flaring as I smiled - as if that’s a thing?

I'm Toby, and I'll guide you through any awkwardness

But… awkwardness is totally normal. It’s totally natural. Being centre stage in front of a lens that suddenly feels massive isn’t something most people do every day. That awkwardness can actually be a good thing.

Think of it this way: a photoshoot is a bit like stepping onto a stage. There's a spotlight (or at least the metaphorical kind), there's a bit of performance involved, and yes, it can feel a little strange at first.  

But just like a great actor warms up backstage, finding their character and shaking off those pre-show jitters, awkwardness is often just a warm-up for something great in a photoshoot.

The Awkward Truth

Why do we feel awkward in front of the camera?

• Self-consciousness: We're often our own worst critics. We overthink how we look, how we're coming across, and whether we're doing it "right."

• Unnatural Environment: For most of us, posing for photos isn't an everyday occurrence. It's an unfamiliar situation, and that can trigger those awkward feelings.   We may be in public, or in the new environment of the studio.

• Fear of Judgment: We worry about what others will think of the photos. Will they like them? Will they judge them?

Why Awkwardness is Actually Your Friend

Here's the good news: that awkwardness is often a sign that you're about to break through to something real.

• It Means You're Trying: If you felt completely comfortable all the time, you probably wouldn't be pushing yourself or exploring new ways to express yourself.  

• It Leads to Authenticity: Those initial stiff poses and forced smiles? That's just you getting warmed up. As you relax and start to feel more comfortable, your true personality starts to shine through.  

• It Creates Connection: When we embrace the awkwardness, we become more relatable. People connect with authenticity, not perfection.  

• It Means You Care: And that’s a good thing. Because if your brand matters to you, showing up properly should too.

  
  

My Job Is To Help You Through It

As a photographer, part of my job is to guide you through that awkwardness. I create a space where you can relax, be yourself, and even have a little fun with the process.  

I've got a few tricks up my sleeve to help you feel at ease:

• No Stiff Poses: We're not about those fake smiles or unnatural poses. We'll focus on capturing the real you, in a natural and relaxed way. Real laughter and real smiles that you can recognise.

• Guidance, Not Dictation: I'll give you clear, simple direction, so you know what to do, even if you usually hate being in front of the camera. The way we sit and stand can make us appear energised and confident in a photo, even if deep down we aren’t entirely comfortable!  

• A Little Humour: Let's face it, awkwardness can be funny and a little bit of laughter can go a long way in easing tension and making you feel more comfortable.  

Embrace the Weird

So, the next time you're feeling a bit awkward in front of the camera, remember that it's just a part of the process. Embrace it, have a little fun with it, and trust that on the other side of that awkwardness lies something truly beautiful and authentic.  

Because in the end, the best photos aren't the ones where you look "perfect." They're the ones that capture the real you, where you look past any flaws you feel you may have, and get excited about sharing with the world. And that's always something to celebrate.

Ready to embrace the awkward and create some amazing photos? Book a confidence call, and let's chat about how we can tell your story.