This is why you feel awkward in photos

What if I told you that feeling awkward in photos is not just solved with posing alone.  You can learn how to pose, but still look awkward and stiff.  
 
Feeling awkward in photos is actually a nervous system response.  
 
👉 Pictures can trigger the same feelings as stage fright. 
 
When a camera comes out, we often stiffen up, hold our breath, and become aware that we have arms and hands and suddenly we don’t know what to do them.    
 
In fact, this happens to me when I press record on my phone to do a video.  My nervous system kicks in, I start to sweat in places I don't normally sweat in, and I forget how to talk.  Words, what happened to my words?
 
My clients have a similiar reaction when I raise my camera up to take their picture.  We can be having a nice conversation, but as soon as I raise my camera they suck in their breath, stiffen up, and brace for impact. 
 
So how can we relax in photos and look less stiff and awkward?

I'm going to share 2 techniques that I use in my studio to get clients to relax for pictures.  

(I also recorded a reel that you can watch by clicking on the picture below)

1. Exhale

A lot of times we are holding our breath when posing for pictures.  So next time, make sure you exhale and breathe through the pose.  Keep breathing.  That will send a signal to your nervous system that you are safe and help your body and face to relax.

2. Relax your shoulders

We hold tension in our shoulders and this can show in pictures.   So, relax your shoulders and let them melt into the ground.

These 2 techniques will help you look more relaxed and comfortable in pictures instead of stiff and awkward.  

If you would like to learn more about posing for pictures, you can grab my free Posing Guide.