If you’ve never had a portrait shoot before, it’s completely normal to feel a bit unsure about it.
Most people I meet tell me they’re worried about feeling awkward, not knowing how to pose, or not looking like themselves in the final photos. I hear that all the time.
My job isn’t just to take photographs. It’s to help you feel comfortable enough to be yourself, because that’s when the best portraits happen.
For me, a portrait shoot starts well before you step into my studio. Preparation matters, and it makes a real difference to how relaxed the session feels.
Before the shoot, I’ll always talk with you about what the photos are for and how you plan to use them. That might be for your business, your website, personal branding or something more personal.
We’ll also chat about the sort of images you’re drawn to and how you want the photos to feel.
I actively encourage clients to share reference images with me. This could be a few screenshots, a link, or a Pinterest board with photos you like.
You don’t need to know why you like them. That’s my job to work out. Seeing what catches your eye helps me understand your taste and expectations, and it means we’re starting the shoot on the same page.
On the day of the shoot, I’m very aware that walking into a studio and having a camera pointed at you can feel intimidating.
I don’t rush straight into taking photos. We start with a proper chat and a chance to settle in. That part matters more than people realise.
Before I became a photographer, I spent many years working as a Chartered Financial Planner. That career taught me how to put people at ease, how to listen properly, and how to read the room. Those skills are just as important in photography as they are in personal finance.
Once we’re ready to begin, I guide you every step of the way. You’re never expected to know how to pose or what to do with your hands. I’ll give you clear, simple direction and explain things as we go.
In my studio, I shoot with my camera tethered to my Mac, which means the images appear on a large screen as they’re taken. This is something clients really appreciate. Being able to see the photos straight away helps take away a lot of the uncertainty.
We can look at what’s working, make small adjustments to posture or expression, and fine tune things together. It turns the shoot into a collaboration rather than something that’s happening to you.
Portrait shoots with me are relaxed and fluid. You’re not expected to hold stiff poses for long periods. We move, we adjust, and we respond to what’s happening in the moment.
Some of the best images often appear between poses, when you’re reacting naturally. Because we can see the images as we go, it’s much easier to spot those moments and build on them.
Once the shoot gets going, the atmosphere usually shifts quite quickly. We chat, we listen to music, and there’s a lot of conversation.
I’m a big believer in small talk, and not just for the sake of filling silence. Talking helps people relax, and relaxed people photograph better.
I ask about your work, your interests, and the things you enjoy. I’m genuinely interested in the people I photograph, and that curiosity shows in the images.
There’s also humour involved. I tell bad jokes. Proper dad jokes. I never claim they’re good, but they do the job. Laughter changes your expression instantly, and even if you groan at the joke, that reaction often makes for a great photo.
The combination of conversation, music and a bit of silliness helps people forget about the camera and focus on being themselves.
Lighting and technical details are something I take care of quietly in the background. You might notice me moving you slightly or asking you to turn towards the light, but everything is done with a clear reason.
You don’t need to worry about the technical side of portrait photography at all. My role is to make sure the light, angles and framing all work in your favour.
If we’re doing outfit changes, these are handled in a calm, unhurried way. Changing clothes adds variety and helps create a set of images that work across different uses. It also gives you a natural break, which helps keep the session feeling fresh.
Throughout the shoot, I’m constantly paying attention to what’s working and what could be improved. If something isn’t quite right, I’ll adjust it gently and explain why. The aim is never to change who you are, but to show you at your best.
As the session comes to an end, many clients tell me they’re surprised by how quickly the time has passed. What often started with nerves ends with a sense of confidence.
Before you leave, I’ll explain what happens next, including when you’ll see your images and how you’ll choose your favourites.
Good portrait photography isn’t about perfection. It’s about honesty, warmth and connection. When you feel comfortable and involved in the process, the images reflect that.
If you’ve been putting off a portrait shoot because you weren’t sure what to expect, I hope this gives you a clearer picture.
If you’d like to talk about booking a session or have any questions at all, please get in touch. I’d love to help you create portraits that feel natural, relaxed and genuinely you.
