The Secret to Great Photos

If you’ve ever had your photo taken and felt awkward, stiff, or unsure of what to do, you know how much comfort matters in photography. As a photographer, one of the most important parts of your job, beyond lighting, composition, and camera settings, is making your subject feel at ease.

When your subject feels comfortable, their true personality shines through. Their expressions soften, their body language relaxes, and their confidence grows. That’s when the magic happens, and the images become not just beautiful, but authentic.

Here’s how to create an environment where your subject can relax and truly be themselves.

1. Start with a Warm Welcome

The comfort level starts the moment your subject arrives. Greet them with a genuine smile, make small talk, and take a few minutes to chat before jumping into the shoot. Ask about their day, share something about yourself, or compliment their outfit, anything to create a human connection first.

When your subject feels seen as a person rather than just “someone in front of the camera,” they’re far more likely to relax.

2. Explain What to Expect

For many people, having professional photos taken is unfamiliar territory. The uncertainty of not knowing what will happen next can make them tense.Take a minute to explain your process:

• How long the session will take

• What you’ll be asking them to do

• How you’ll guide them through posing. When people understand what’s coming, they feel more in control, and that comfort shows in their expressions.

  
  

3. Keep the Energy Light and Positive

If you want natural smiles, keep the atmosphere fun. Crack a joke, play upbeat music, or share a funny behind-the-scenes story from another shoot. Encourage your subject when they do well, and keep your tone upbeat when making adjustments.Your energy sets the tone, if you’re relaxed, they’ll mirror it.

4. Give Simple, Clear Directions

When posing, too many instructions at once can overwhelm your subject. Instead, break down directions into small, easy steps:

• “Turn your shoulders just a little.”

• “Chin slightly down.”

• “Great! Now look toward the window.” And don’t forget to show them exactly what you mean if needed, demonstrating a pose yourself can make them feel less self-conscious.

  
  

5. Let Them Move

Sometimes the best shots happen in the in-between moments. Instead of freezing your subject into a single pose, encourage natural movement; walking, laughing, adjusting their hair. Movement helps break tension and allows personality to come through.

6. Offer Genuine Encouragement

Compliment what’s working, whether it’s a pose, expression, or the way they’re interacting with the camera. A simple “That looks amazing” or “Yes! This is perfect” can boost confidence instantly.

7. Read Their Body Language

Not everyone opens up at the same pace. Pay attention to cues, if they seem tense, take a short break or switch things up. Sometimes, stepping away from the camera for a quick chat can help them reset.

8. End on a High Note

Your subject should leave feeling confident and happy about the experience. Wrap up the session by thanking them, letting them know you got great shots, and giving a preview of what’s next. The more positive the ending, the more excited they’ll be to see the final images.

Final Thought:

Great photography isn’t just about technical skill, it’s about connection. When your subject feels comfortable, they trust you, and that trust leads to photos that feel genuine and alive. A relaxed subject makes for beautiful images, and a beautiful experience they’ll want to repeat.