How to Feel Confident in Front of the Camera

We’ve all been there – the moment the camera comes out, we freeze a little. Whether it’s not knowing where to put your hands or feeling unsure about how you look, being in front of the lens can feel awkward at best and uncomfortable at worst.

But here’s the thing: you’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to feel that way.

Over the years, I’ve worked with so many brilliant women – business owners, creatives, coaches, stylists, designers – who have all said some version of this at the start of their shoot: “I hate having my photo taken.”

By the end? They’re beaming, relaxed, and saying, “That was actually fun!”

So if the idea of having brand photos taken fills you with dread and you’d love to find ways to feel more confident in front of the camera, then this post is for you. Let’s talk about why we feel that way, and how we can turn things around, so you can show up with confidence, warmth, and ease.

Why Confidence on Camera Matters

Whether you’re updating your website, launching something new, or just showing up consistently online, how you appear in your brand photos matters. Not in a polished, perfect, magazine-cover way, but in a “this is me, and I’m proud of what I do” kind of way.

Brand photos help your audience connect with you. As my lovely client Dani said:

“Customers are looking for brands they can trust and great images help to showcase this. From products to showing the face behind the brand, it’s really important to invest in quality images.”

1. Start With the Feeling You Want to Share

Forget what you think you’re supposed to look like. Instead, ask yourself: How do I want people to feel when they land on my website or see my posts?

Warm? Energised? Calmed? Reassured?

When we focus on how we want to connect with others, rather than what we look like, it becomes easier to show up naturally. Your brand images should feel like you – approachable, human, and authentic.

2. Wear What You Feel Good In

This isn’t the time for experimenting with that outfit you’re unsure about. Choose clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable – the ones that fit well, feel like you, and move naturally with your body.

Think about colour too – what works with your brand palette and brings out your features? If you’re not sure, I can help with styling guidance ahead of your shoot.

3. Choose the Right Setting

Confidence isn’t just about what you’re wearing – it’s also about where you are. Being in a space where you feel relaxed can make all the difference.

Whether it’s a light-filled home studio, a cosy local cafe, or the great outdoors, I always help my clients choose a location that reflects both their brand and their personality.

In fact, my upcoming Mini Session Day this autumn is going to be held in a gorgeous Cheltenham cafe – perfect for relaxed, lifestyle shots, or capturing informal client chats.

4. You Don’t Have to Know What to Do

Spoiler: most people don’t!

One of the things I often hear at the end of a shoot is: “You made me feel so comfortable – I actually forgot I was having my photo taken.”

You don’t need to know how to pose. I’ll gently guide you throughout, helping you feel at ease and capturing those natural, in-between moments where your real personality shines through.

As Zoe, one of my clients, said:

“I feel professional! It’s amazing how professional photos change the way you show up and the pride you feel when showing people your website.”

5. Think of It As an Investment in Your Confidence

This isn’t just about getting a new headshot or filling up your Instagram grid. It’s about how you show up in your business.

As Amy put it:

“Emma’s work with me has definitely helped me feel more confident in my online presence. Now I have beautiful, professional images that capture the exact feel and values of my business. I always want to show them off!”

Confidence grows when we back ourselves – and stepping in front of the camera is one of the most powerful ways you can do that.

Want to Take the First Step?

If you’re ready to finally feel confident in front of the camera, I offer Signature Half Day Sessions designed to give you a beautiful, bespoke gallery of images that feel like you.

Or, if you’d prefer to start small, I’m introducing a Mini Subscription – two shorter shoots across the year, starting this autumn and finishing in spring. It’s perfect if you want regular content without the big commitment. More on that soon but if you’d like to be added to the waitlist, please let me know!

You don’t have to be a model. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to show up – and trust that we’ll create something beautiful together.

If this speaks to you, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch and let’s have a cuppa and a chat.

Let’s make showing up feel good!