If this is you. Don’t worry there are lots of things we can do to make the shoot much easier and even fun…

Many of my clients have said they feel this way, or that one of the team colleagues or partner/child/husband does. I also hate having my photo taken.. one of the many reasons I choose to stay behind the camera. My brother and I are polar opposites this way, he would leap infront of the camera at any opportunity, spend hours performing in front of the mirror and later became an actor and model, whereas I was often found hiding behind my mother and immediately opted for set design or directing roles in school plays.. It’s funny how this plays out -the same thing seems to be happening with my children.

So what can I do to help?

There are lots of ways I can help even the most camera shy;

I can make sure you’re not the sole focus of the shoot, which is easy to do especially if it’s a family shoot, or if you’re part of a team.
you can be in the photo and stand out without having to be centre stage
allow plenty of time, so it’s less pressured and will give time to relax into it (this may sound counterintuitive and unlikely but I promise it works)
go to multiple locations so you forget you’re being photographed (this works particularly well with children) and I’ll photograph you when we’re moving/walking.
if it’s a studio shoot, bring a friend who can help to distract you
I have guidance of what to wear when being photographed and work with hair and make up artists who can be there to help on the day and make you feel at your best
it can be helpful to discuss any insecurities you have about being photographed in advance, features etc you don’t like, so I’m aware of them when I edit and photograph you
I ll advise you on flattering angles and what works for the camera
If none of the above appeals or convinces you and it’s part of a family/workplace shoot, we can make sure you join for 15-20 minutes of the shoot..

It’s a question I often get asked and is very much a personal choice. Some clients prefer the controlled lighting you get from a studio and to be photographed in a neutral space, whilst others feel more comfortable having photographs taken in their workplace, a favourite park or their home.

I’d say it’s best to have your photograph taken where you feel most comfortable and if you feel a neutral backdrop better conveys your brand /personality then studio can work better. Whereas if you feel the local park, or your kitchen, study or workplace conveys who you are better, then location shoots should be your go to.

These are some photos taken at a recent shoot, with the journalist and author Michael Crick at his home. I set up my portable studio backdrop in his main room to achieve a studio set up and also took photos in his study and garden to showcase his home. A shoot can be very versatile, and now that studio lights and back drop are so lightweight and portable it’s possible to try both during the same shoot.

I hope this helps you to make your choice. Please do get in contact if you’d like to explore this further emily@emilytravis.photos