I take a lot of photos, and especially enjoy photographing people.
I’ve learned from thousands of photos that a great portrait isn’t just about the pose but the entire moment captured on camera and the story told.
Too often, we think about portrait photography as standing (or sitting) in front of the camera, freezing in position with a big toothy grin, and waiting for the click.
But the best portraits don’t work like that. They go beyond the pose, revealing something more profound about the subject, something uniquely you.
So, how do you get a portrait that feels personal and authentic, not stiff and staged?
As a professional portrait photographer in the Surrey Hills (sorry, SEO keyword stuffing in that sentence!), It comes down to a genuine connection between the photographer and the subject. When we get that connection right, we create an environment where you feel free to be yourself, not simply aiming to hold the perfect pose.
Here are a few insights into getting a portrait photo that feels like you. After all, that’s got to be the aim of what we do together.
Embrace natural movements and expressions
Instead of trying to nail a specific pose, focus on being present in the moment. Small movements, like adjusting your stance or glancing away, can add depth to a portrait.
Spontaneity brings out genuine expressions, which convey your personality much better than a rigid stance.
Find a photographer who gets you
A photographer who makes you feel comfortable will draw out your natural expressions. Look for someone who asks questions, listens, and takes the time to understand who you are.
I’m different from other portrait photographers because of my 20 years as a Chartered Financial Planner before taking up the camera full-time. You’d better believe I spent my career in financial advice asking lots of questions and, most importantly, listening carefully to the answers.
That connection can make all the difference between a portrait that’s just “nice” and one that’s authentically you.
Don’t be afraid to let your guard down
Whether laughing, dancing, or simply letting your guard down, give yourself permission to move and feel at ease.
You might feel silly at first, but these candid moments often produce the most memorable images.
Trust your photographer—they’re there to bring out the real you.
Bring your passions into the picture
Sometimes, incorporating a small part of what makes you unique—a favourite book, a musical instrument, or even a particular outfit—can help convey your personality.
Using props in a portrait photography session doesn’t mean staging the entire portrait around these items, but letting a small detail highlight your interests can make a portrait feel deeply personal.
Forget ‘perfect’ and aim for real
Leave the elements of perfection (lighting, focus, etc) to me.
Portraits are about more than perfection. A small laugh line, a look of thoughtfulness, or even a playful expression can make a portrait infinitely more relatable. When you let go of the pressure to be “perfect,” you open up to being real, which is always more captivating.
The best portraits are not the ones where you hold a perfect pose, but where you’re allowed to simply be yourself.
If you’re ready for a portrait session that feels like you—natural, personal, and a little bit playful—let’s chat.
Going beyond the pose can make all the difference. Embrace the experience, and let’s capture the real you.
