Confidence in front of the camera: A guide for Studio Sessions

If the thought of having your photo taken makes you squirm a little /or a lot/ you’re not alone.

Maybe you’ve said things like:

“I’m not photogenic.”

“I never know what to do with my hands.”

“I’ll book a session once I lose the baby weight / feel better about myself / have more time.”

As a photographer who works closely with women through all walks of life, from motherhood to self-discovery, I hear this all the time. It makes me sad because when I look at you, all I can see is a beautiful human, a powerful one, a strong one, capable of everything she puts her mind to.

I often remind my clients that you don’t need to change anything about yourself to be worthy of being seen. You just need the right support to help you feel safe, confident, and yourself in front of the lens. And I aim to provide exactly that during my sessions, regardless of whether it is an outdoor couples session by the beach or in my studio doing empowerment portraiture for two hours.

Babe, I got you!

1. Let’s talk before the camera ever comes out

To help you feel more at ease before we even meet in person, I offer a complimentary video call to all my clients (you are also welcome to come and visit me in person in my studio :)

This is a relaxed chance for us to connect face-to-face, chat about your vision, and go over anything you’re unsure about — from what to wear to what to expect.

Getting to know each other ahead of time makes a huge difference. By the time your session arrives, we’re not strangers and that comfort (and also a trust) shows up in your photos.

2. It’s about being present and less about *Perfect*

I don’t believe in perfection as many of us perceive this word. However perfection for me is in being unique in our own way + being happy with yourself, honouring who you are. I think of a human body as an example of perfection. Just think about this - it carries us (by us I mean our souls) to places, wakes up every day, generates energy for us to do things, even sends us signals if something is off. That is remarkable in my opinion. All I can do is just be grateful for that!

And when you let go of that idealised perfection on how you look, but have that feeling of being happy and grateful within your temple (yeah yeah, some cliché wording there, blah blah, call it a temple or sanctuary, it doesn’t change the fact that our body’s are given us once in a life and we need to treasure it, would you agree?), then being in front of the camera should feel less scary.

From my experience most powerful, magnetic photos happen when you feel present, not perfect.

That’s why I guide you gently during the sessions — with prompts and suggestions without a rush or force.

I will tap into your energy by regularly checking in to see how you're feeling and always ask if there's anything you would like to try.

Your voice is welcome throughout the process.

3. Confidence grows by doing

Just like we practice to master our skills to, for example, become better drivers, better cooks, better singers, etc., being “natural“ in front of the camera also comes with practice. So many women tell me after their session:

“I didn’t think I could enjoy being photographed, but I actually loved it.”

Confidence isn’t something you have to fake. It grows by doing and when you're treated with kindness, when your story is honoured, and when you’re seen not just for how you look but for who you are.

And be prepared to get showered with compliments during your session with me! I am no shy of giving them out to another women, I know how big of a difference that makes and I take it seriously :)

4. A few gentle ways to build confidence before your session

Here are a few things you can try in the days leading up to your shoot:

• Practice soft movement in the mirror. Notice how you naturally stand, soften your shoulders, or tilt your head. Modelling is a job people train for, and with some practice at home you can become this confident woman within just one session. I have seen that happen multiple times, so I am pretty sure you can do it too!

• Choose clothing that feels like you. Comfort is extremely important, but clothing that makes you feel beautiful is half of a successful photoshoot. If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to help. During your studio session with me, we have 2 hours in which you can swap up to three outfits.

• Take a few quiet minutes before your session. A lot of people get nervous before they step in front of the camera. So what do we do when we are nervous? Deep breath! Breathing is a powerful tool to calm ourselves down.

I have also created a free downloadable Posing Guide which should help you become more aware of your body movements and positioning.

It includes some tips and tricks with actual samples.

Final Thoughts

My approach to studio sessions is bringing calm, support, create connection, and provide gentle guidance. I believe in giving space for real moments to unfold, and checking in with you throughout the session so you always feel included, seen and respected.

You deserve to feel good in front of the camera. Leave those negative thoughts “when I am ready” or “once I loose weight ” behind!

THERE’S NO *RIGHT TIME*

THERE’S ONLY TIME - AND WHAT YOU CHOOSE TO DO WITH IT!

If you’ve been putting it off, I want to gently invite you to consider this:

What would it feel like to step in front of the camera and finally see yourself with kindness and appreciation?

If you’re curious about what that could look like for you, I’d love to talk. Email me to start the conversation at hello@irenacima.photography or check out my offerings for Studio Session.

You are ready. And you are already enough.