There’s nothing worse than receiving a professional portrait and thinking, “That doesn’t look like me.”
Maybe the lighting is harsh, the smile feels forced, or it’s been edited so much it might as well be AI-generated.
A good portrait should feel like a mirror—one that reflects not just your appearance, but your personality too.
I hear it time and time again: “I just want a photo that actually looks like me.” And that’s exactly what I aim to deliver.
Whether you’re a business owner, a creative freelancer, or someone needing a headshot for your LinkedIn profile, an honest, relaxed portrait will always make the strongest impression.
Why some portraits miss the mark
You’ve probably seen it happen before. Someone gets new headshots taken, but when you look at the final photos, they seem stiff or overdone. This usually comes down to a few things: over-retouching, awkward posing, and a lack of genuine connection between the subject and the photographer.
Many people also feel nervous in front of the camera, which makes it harder for their natural self to shine through.
A big part of my job is to create a comfortable, friendly environment where people can relax. Because when you’re at ease, your real personality comes out—and that’s what makes a portrait feel true to you.
What makes a portrait feel “like you”
It starts before the camera even comes out. I always take the time to have a chat before a session, whether it’s over a coffee or on a quick call. This helps me get to know you—how you want to be seen, what you do, and what kind of energy you want your photos to have.
Some clients want to come across as confident and professional. Others want something more approachable and warm.
The key is finding that balance between authenticity and intention. Once we know what story you want to tell, we can choose the right setting, light and style to support it.
Natural light and natural expressions
One of the simplest ways to get a portrait that feels real is to use natural light. Harsh studio lighting can make anyone feel like they’re under a spotlight. But a soft, natural light—like you find in a shaded garden, near a window, or on a quiet village street—brings out natural skin tones and puts people at ease.
The same goes for expressions. I don’t ask people to hold a smile or tilt their head “just so.” Instead, I keep the session relaxed and conversational.
We talk, laugh, pause. I’ll take plenty of shots, and in those in-between moments—when you’re not posing—that’s often when the most genuine photos appear.
Clothing and location choices matter too
You should feel like yourself in your portrait, and that starts with what you wear.
I always suggest clothes that you feel good in—not just something “smart” for the sake of it. Whether it’s a crisp shirt, a favourite jacket or something more casual, your outfit should reflect your everyday self, not a version of you that only comes out for photo day.
Location makes a big difference as well. A relaxed, natural setting will always help you feel more at home. Around Cranleigh and the Surrey Hills, we’ve got no shortage of beautiful spots for this—woodland paths, quiet commons, local cafés, or even your own workspace if that’s where you feel most grounded.
When the location feels familiar and friendly, the portraits do too.
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Getting a portrait that actually looks like you isn’t about being “photogenic.” It’s about being seen. The best results come when you trust the process, take a deep breath, and let your guard down.
My role is to guide you through it with care, patience, and just the right amount of direction—so the end result feels easy, honest, and unmistakably you.
If you’ve been putting off getting your portrait taken because you hate how you look in photos, or you’re tired of images that don’t feel like you, I’d love to help.
Let’s have a chat, find the right setting, and create something you’ll be proud to share.
Ready for portraits that actually look like you? Get in touch today and let’s talk.
