Do you find yourself freezing up whenever a camera points your way?
If you’ve ever panicked about where to put your hands, how to stand, or even how to smile naturally in front of the lens, rest assured, you’re not alone.
Many of my portrait clients arrive feeling anxious and uncertain about how they’ll look in their photos. The good news is that natural, relaxed portraits aren’t just down to luck or genetics—they’re something everyone can achieve with just a few simple tips.
As a professional portrait photographer working in Cranleigh and the beautiful Surrey Hills, I’ve guided many individuals and small business owners through portrait sessions.
Over the years, I’ve discovered practical, easy-to-follow tips that can help anyone feel comfortable, relaxed, and confident in front of the camera.
Here are my seven favourite ways to pose naturally and ensure you look fantastic at your next photoshoot.
1 – Shift Your Weight
Standing rigidly with both feet planted firmly can make you look tense or awkward in photographs.
To appear instantly more relaxed and approachable, shift your weight slightly onto your back foot, leaving your front foot slightly forward. This creates a natural, flattering angle for your body and helps you avoid stiffness.
You’ll be amazed how such a subtle shift can enhance your entire posture.
2 – Find Something to Do With Your Hands
If you’re wondering what on earth to do with your hands, you’re certainly not alone!
Awkward hands can make an otherwise great portrait feel uncomfortable.
Solve this by giving your hands something natural to do—rest them loosely on your hips, gently clasp your fingers in front of you, or place one hand lightly in your pocket.
If you’re sitting, try loosely interlacing your fingers on your lap. Giving your hands a purpose helps create a relaxed, confident vibe.
3 – Engage With Your Eyes
Great portraits often have one thing in common—eyes that speak clearly and confidently.
Instead of staring blankly at the lens, imagine you’re looking at a close friend.
Try slightly narrowing your eyes (as if focusing intently on something interesting), to create engagement and depth. This simple trick can transform a photograph from ordinary to compelling, capturing your personality vividly.
4 – Use Movement to Relax
Sometimes staying perfectly still can make you feel rigid. Incorporating gentle movement can make a huge difference to the authenticity of your photos.
Try shifting your head slightly, adjusting your shoulders, or subtly changing your position between shots. You might even try slowly walking toward the camera—this creates dynamic, lively portraits, capturing you in a naturally confident moment.
5 – Mind Your Posture (But Stay Relaxed)
Good posture helps you appear confident and approachable. Keep your back naturally straight, shoulders gently back, and your chin slightly forward and down.
While posture is important, avoid holding yourself in a stiff, uncomfortable position. The goal is balance—a relaxed yet strong posture helps you look and feel your best.
6 – Smile With Authenticity
A forced smile is immediately noticeable. To smile naturally, think of something genuinely funny or joyful right before the photographer snaps the shot.
If laughter isn’t your style, don’t force it—smiling with your eyes can also create powerful portraits.
A gentle, authentic smile or even a thoughtful expression can connect deeply with viewers, so stay true to who you really are.
7 – Lean In (Just Slightly!)
Leaning slightly towards the camera is another incredibly effective yet simple tip for creating natural portraits. This gentle lean creates engagement, conveying openness and warmth.
Leaning forward even slightly communicates interest and friendliness, making your portraits inviting and approachable.
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Taking portraits is all about capturing your genuine self. It’s not about becoming someone else or adopting complicated poses that feel awkward. Instead, it’s about subtle adjustments, authentic expressions, and finding ways to relax and be yourself.
Ready for Your Best Portrait Yet?
Now that you have these practical tips, it’s time to feel confident, relaxed, and ready for your next portrait session.
If you’re looking for professional portrait photography around Cranleigh and the Surrey Hills, I’d be delighted to help.
My approach is all about putting you at ease, creating a fun and comfortable environment, and capturing portraits that reflect who you truly are.
Get in touch today to chat about your photography needs. Together, we can create portraits you’ll proudly display for years to come.
