Isle of Wight Photography
Why do people tell stories to each other?
When I met Sandra in the summer she told me all about her move to London and why she wore her favourite little black dress to our photoshoot.
I think that, beyond the desire to communicate, storytelling is a way to make a connection between people.
You hear the laughter in their voice, feel the excitement in their retelling and see the sparkle in their eyes – it’s a way to share humorous moments, and build new bonds.
Sandra was quick to tell her friends about our portrait experience and here are 3 expert tips that you can use to instantly improve your experience with a photographer.
#1 Accept genuine Compliments
Passing on a genuine compliment is a dying art, but a few carefully chosen words can go a long way making anyone feel confident and relaxed during the shoot.
Rushed, insincere or obvious comments designed to flatter tend to ring hollow, failing to connect with your self-image.
No-one wants to hear that they have great eyes if they’ve just described the restless night they’ve had. Instead, choose 1 feature that is true to your personality and let it shine.
Your photographer should aim to leave a meaningful impression that allows the recipient responds to the truth behind their observation.
Photographers, if you explain what looks good and why you’ll avoid sounding unnatural or forced.
Try these:
- turn to the sky so the sun can add a sparkle to your lovely eyes
- sit here, it will flatter your profile … your bone structure is great
- that’s a lovely outfit, you’ve got a good eye
#2 Be true to yourself
Elegant lifestyle photographs that look great often show people doing what comes naturally.
An easy way to start your portrait session is to try a seated pose.
My starting point is always sitting on a step or ledge.
Perching on the edge, leaning forward, or resting against the wall is natural and helps you feel comfortable. A slightly higher vantage point also helps stretch the neck and minimizes the cursed double chin.
Hands rest naturally in the lap or you can add a dynamic touch by flicking the hair or fiddling with an ear-ring.
Read more about hand poses here.
If it feels awkward, it will look awkward, be true to yourself, and only rest in positions that feel natural.
Don’t be afraid to talk to your photographer and suggest a different pose if you’re starting to feel self-conscious or uncomfortable.
#3 Take time to relax
Storytelling, gossip, and chatter are all it takes.
My photo sessions are peppered with jokes and comments about what I’m doing and why.
I don’t rush into the portrait session, I take time to have a natter and find out about my new buddy.
Taking the time to get a sense of your personality helps you show your most beautiful version of yourself.
People need to be able to see *you*, on a good day!
Get to know your photographer by asking lots of questions: How long have they been shooting?
What inspired them to get started? What do people say about their images?
Two days after meeting Sandra, she had told so many people about my services that I had 7 messages via Facebook in 24 hours. Why did Sandra appreciate the experience? I made connections, listened to her stories, and shared my expert tips:
“She´s really amazing! She wants new models – but don´t worry look at me, I don´t have anything in common with models and everything was great!”
Next week I’ll share natural-looking poses, but for now here are 5 expert tips:
o angle the body
o slightly bend arms
o tilt the head
o look away from the camera
o chin down and forwards
I produce stylish portraits for the modern women that are neither cliched nor formulaic. The portraits in my portfolio are full of character and detail, captured during relaxed sessions that are ever-practical and fun – so they are easy on the purse strings and appreciated by couples or families too. For more advice on natural portrait sessions or to book a natural portrait by a London photographer, get in touch and I’ll be happy to help.
I hope you find these tips helpful and that your next natural portrait session on the Isle of Wight is a hoot. I’d love to know which tip you think is the most helpful.
- Learn about my supportive approach to headshots
- See more of my work as a portrait photographer in Isle of Wight
- Check what I enjoy producing in my home studio, Ryde
- View a typical beach session by Ryde pier
- Read about headshot photography pricing and check availability
Booking for expressive headshots, Ryde
Amanda Herbert | Isle of Wight
[email protected]
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