Everyone wants to look their best in photos, but for many people, the moment a camera is pointed their way, something changes.
Smiles stiffen. Shoulders rise. Expressions freeze. What should feel natural and joyful suddenly becomes forced and awkward.
So, how do you capture a truly relaxed, authentic smile in a portrait?
As a professional photographer working across Cranleigh and the Surrey Hills, I’ve spent years helping people feel comfortable in front of the camera – from small business owners to charity teams, families, and individuals.
The secret isn’t just in the lighting or the lens. It’s in the connection, the atmosphere, and knowing how to bring out the real you.
Here’s how it’s done.
It’s Not About “Say Cheese”
Let’s start by throwing out the oldest cliché in photography. Asking someone to “say cheese” almost guarantees a fake smile.
It lifts the corners of the mouth, but it doesn’t do anything for the eyes. And the eyes – that spark of connection – are where the real smile lives.
Authentic smiles come from genuine moments. That might mean sharing a joke, thinking of someone you love, or just being in a setting that makes you feel at ease.
Instead of giving rigid instructions, I always guide my clients into moments that feel natural and personal. A little chat, a shared story, or simply giving them time to settle into the session can make all the difference.
The Importance of Comfort
No one looks relaxed when they feel out of place. That’s why it’s so important to create an environment where the person being photographed feels comfortable.
For me, this starts long before I even pick up the camera. I take time to understand who my clients are, what kind of images they want, and how they want to be seen.
On the day of the shoot, I choose locations and setups that suit their personality. For some, that might be a bright, open field in the Surrey countryside. For others, it could be a cosy, familiar indoor setting.
It’s about finding a backdrop that supports the story we’re telling, without overshadowing the person in front of the lens.
Movement Helps
Posing can feel awkward, especially if someone isn’t used to being photographed. That’s why I often encourage movement.
A walk through the woods, turning slowly to face the camera, or simply shifting weight from one foot to the other can help ease any stiffness. Movement brings flow and natural energy into the photos.
Sometimes, the best smiles come in the moments between poses – the laughter after a missed cue, or a quick glance shared with a partner or friend. These in-between moments are gold, and I always keep the camera ready for them.
Focus on Connection
One of the most powerful tools in capturing genuine smiles is building connection. When someone feels seen and understood, their guard drops. They don’t need to “perform” for the camera. They can just be themselves.
I talk to my clients throughout the shoot. I ask questions, listen carefully, and give gentle direction without making it feel like a performance.
If someone is nervous, I take things slow. If they’re confident, we build on that energy. Every person is different, and so is every smile.
Don’t Aim for Perfection
Perfection is overrated – and it rarely feels real. The best portraits are the ones that show your true personality, not just your best angle.
A slightly crooked grin, a laugh mid-sentence, or even a bit of wind in the hair can add life and honesty to a photograph.
When people let go of trying to look perfect, their expressions soften. They stop worrying about their smile, and it becomes something they feel, not something they do. That’s when the magic happens.
What You Can Do Before Your Session
If you’re preparing for a portrait session and want to feel more confident about your smile, there are a few simple things you can do.
Spend some time in front of a mirror – not to practise a pose, but to notice what your face does when you’re truly smiling. Think of something that makes you happy. Watch how your eyes change. That’s what you want to bring with you on the day.
It also helps to arrive early and not rush. Give yourself time to breathe, settle in, and chat before we start taking photos.
Bring a favourite jumper, or something that makes you feel good in your own skin. That feeling will show in your expression.
Let the Smile Come to You
The real secret to a relaxed, authentic smile? Don’t force it. Let it come to you.
Trust your photographer to guide you, and give yourself permission to enjoy the moment. You don’t need to do anything special – just be yourself, and the right smile will follow.
If you’re looking for natural, heartfelt portraits that truly reflect who you are – whether you’re an individual, a small business owner, or part of a team – I’d love to help.
I work across Cranleigh and the Surrey Hills, creating warm, genuine images for people who want to be seen as they really are.
Get in touch to book your session, or just to have a chat about what you’re looking for. I’d love to hear from you.
