The Key to a Perfect Photo Shoot

Some of the most common problems I've encountered so far with portraiture shoots, are overcoming adult anxieties. Things like "I'm worried the kids won't behave" and "I hope the dogs don't run off" are normal worries, when you're paying good money for a photo shoot. However, the one that tops all of those is "I'm not very photogenic and I hate having my picture taken."


I think 90% of bookings I've taken so far, has started with this particular statement and I for one can totally understand. The problem with us adults is, we have grown to dislike certain parts of our bodies over a period of time and unfortunately, it is those particular hangups that jump out and shout "LOOK AT ME" when we view photos of ourselves.


For me it's my chins! No matter how much people say "oh what a lovely photo" I'm sat there thinking, "Oh my goodness, where has my jaw gone?" I can assure you that we are the only ones that see these imperfections. Everyone else takes the photo at face value, they take in the surroundings and the subjects as a whole.


The key to a perfect photo shoot, is to find a photographer that puts you at ease. Choose someone who works naturally outdoors, where you can be yourself in somewhere you feel most comfortable. Someone who isn't sticking a camera close up to your face, but using a zoom that can capture you from afar. Also, if you are self conscious, I would suggest steering clear of studios where you are being told how to pose.



Children and pets don't have the  insecurities that adults do, they are carefree and just look at the shoot as a big adventure. It doesn't matter to me if your child is being a little monkey, because there are ways around this and at the end of the day everyone loves a cheeky monkey shot. However, playing games of hide and seek and peekaboo, help kids to relax and provides more natural shots.


Of course, dogs do sometimes run off, but hey, they always come back again and so what if they are wet or covered in mud, it's not a disaster. Some of my favourite images have been when a dog has jumped into a large puddle or river, it shows their character and is nothing to be worried about.


So just remember, photo shoots are done to capture a memory, a way to remember the story of your life. The weather may not be great on the day, which in turn might make your hair frizzy. Your kids might have gotten out of bed the wrong side, or your dog might be misbehaving. It is not something you need to worry about, because these are everyday life experiences and a good photographer will capture them in a way you will love.