Can’t seem to fall in love with the camera? Try falling in like. Here are some tips on how to take better headshots. Read more in “Falling in Like with the Camera” here…

It should come as no surprise that the key to taking brilliant photographs is to feel comfortable. Naturally, if you are in love with someone, you would feel comfortable around them. Of course, it isn’t always as easy as it sounds to let your guard down when someone you just met is sticking a camera lens in your face. Here are some tips on how to relax and get your best shots.

Arrive early.
Though the photographer may not have the time to meet with you and make you feel more at ease before you scheduled shoot time, it will ease your mind if you arrive early and allow yourself the extra time to feel out the environment. If you arrive just on time, or even late, you will become flustered and create an air of stress that might derail your whole shoot.

Remember to eat.
A common misconception is that you will look bloated if you eat on the day you are getting your pictures taken. This is a huge mistake and can set you up for failure. You will fall victim to fatigue if you do not stay hydrated and eat a healthy, substantial breakfast. Now, of course, this isn’t an excuse to go eating an entire Lumberjack sized meal.

Smile.
If you start to smile, it takes only thirty seconds for your mind to believe you are happy, and you will start to feel happy. There are studies that believe smiling when you are under stress will reduce the amount of stress you feel. Plus, smiling is contagious and it is likely to make the other people in the room feel at ease and have a good time if you are putting out positive energy.