Not everyone can be a natural in front of the camera. For many of us, it is outside of our comfort zone. To be honest, I used to not like being in front of the camera. It felt awkward for me. If you look at my Instagram feed from 2016 when I first started my account, I was never in the photo.

My IG feed in 2016.

One day I was having a conversation with one of my friends at the time, and she said that people (who these people are I don’t know) like to see millennials in their work. Now whether this is true or not, I’m not sure, but after that I started trying to put myself in the shot.

At first the photos with me in them were just the regular smile for the camera shots. The photos below were taken in Italy in late 2016.

Then after some time, life experience, practice and a little lesson in self-love - I started learning how to be confident in front of the camera. In doing so, I started being able to create emotional, take-you-there travel content.

My IG feed in 2019.

Whatever your reasoning for wanting to be more confident in front of the camera is, you can absolutely do it and these tips can help to guide you.

Know Your Angles

Knowing your best angles is the first step to being able to get some great shots that will boost your confidence. Contrary to popular belief, many bloggers and influencers do not just take a couple of shots and get a fabulous image. Absolutely not. Sometimes, sure, but the majority of the time, no. Look at yourself in the mirror, and find those angles that make you feel the best. Remember that there are no bad angles! You’re a stunner all the way around, but you know what I mean - find your favorites.

Be the Director

Once you’ve found your favorite angles it’s time to shoot! I always like to take some test shots first. There is always less anxiety when you are taking your own photos. When someone else is behind the camera is when we tend to get a bit nervous, and it may feel awkward. The photographer and the camera is not going to see you the same way you see yourself. For many reasons like height and just for the simple fact that they don’t know you like you know you. So, direct them! This is the best way to get a result that you can be happy with. Make sure after a couple of test shots you check the images. If you don’t like them - be the boss, and direct them on how they can capture you better to give you what you want.

My mom has zero photography experience, but I was able to direct her and we got this great shot in my home city.

Act Like a Pro

Most people modeling in front of a camera are not actually models. That doesn’t mean you can’t act like one though! Sometimes the whole fake it til you make it thing really does work. You begin to get used it. Also, the photographer (even if it’s a friend or family member) doesn’t need to know if you’re a newbie or not. Work it!

There were SO many people waiting to watch the sunset in Oía. I was staying at the windmill at Charisma Suites. So, I was in everyone’s line of sight. I just acted like I knew what I was doing (the extravagant birthday gown helped) and tuned everything and everyone else out.

Let Loose

Letting yourself relax and have fun plays a big part in confidence in front of the camera. I am an introvert myself, so I understand the discomfort in being the center of attention. I am also a creator though, and duty calls. Make fun of yourself, laugh at yourself. Have a good time, and over time it will become second nature.

You Don’t Look as Silly as You Think

You don’t. I promise. Think about all of the people, especially in this day and age, that are out here doing the exact same thing - shooting photos and videos for fun, for Instagram, for TikTok, for a job, whatever the occasion. Everyone is doing it. And I admire those people that are fearless, out there, not caring what anyone thinks.

Love Yourself

At the end of day, love yourself no matter what stage you are in with life or self-confidence. That love will radiate through the lens.

Are you ready for your close up?! I hope this can help you to find your own confidence in front of the camera! And maybe in many other aspects of life too.