Creating a comfortable and trusting environment is essential for capturing authentic, natural portraits. For many people, posing in front of a camera can feel intimidating or awkward. As a photographer, it’s your role to help them feel at ease, so their personality can shine through. Here are some practical tips to make your clients feel relaxed and confident during a portrait session.

1. Start with a Warm Welcome and Friendly Conversation

From the moment your clients arrive, greet them warmly and engage in friendly conversation. Building rapport from the start helps ease any initial nervousness. Ask them about their day or compliment them on their outfit or choice of location. Genuine interest and a relaxed tone can help set the stage for a positive session.

2. Explain the Process Clearly

People feel more comfortable when they know what to expect. Briefly walk your clients through the session process, explaining the types of poses or angles you’ll be capturing. Letting them know you’ll be guiding them every step of the way reassures them that they don’t need to be experts in front of the camera.

3. Give Simple, Encouraging Directions

During the session, provide clear, simple instructions for poses or movements. Avoid complicated directions that might confuse or overwhelm them. Use gentle prompts like “turn your shoulder this way,” “look slightly over there,” or “relax your hands.” Always encourage them with positive feedback like “That looks great!” or “You’re doing awesome!” to boost their confidence.

4. Encourage Natural Movements and Poses

Rigid poses can make clients feel uncomfortable, so encourage natural movements and expressions. Instead of a fixed pose, ask them to walk, lean, or gently sway. Small, natural actions often produce more relaxed, candid shots and give clients a way to ease into the shoot.

5. Keep the Atmosphere Light and Fun

Create a light-hearted atmosphere by making jokes or sharing funny stories. Laughter is a great way to break the ice and help clients forget the camera. Don’t be afraid to show some of your personality, too—it will help them feel like they’re working with a friend rather than a stranger behind the lens.

6. Show Clients a Few Photos Mid-Shoot

Every now and then, show your clients a few images from the back of the camera. When they see how great they look, it can boost their confidence and allow them to relax. If they see they’re already doing well, they’re more likely to feel comfortable and motivated to continue.

7. Use Props or Familiar Objects

Props can be a useful tool for putting clients at ease, giving them something to focus on or interact with. Whether it’s a favorite jacket, a chair to sit on, or a coffee cup, props give them a sense of purpose in the photo and reduce the pressure of knowing where to place their hands or how to pose.

8. Play Background Music

Playing music can help relax the atmosphere and make the session more enjoyable. Ask clients about their favorite genre or artist, and create a playlist that suits their tastes. Background music can help them feel more comfortable, as they may even start moving to the rhythm, which can bring out genuine expressions and body language.

9. Give Positive Reinforcement Throughout

People naturally feel more at ease when they know they’re doing well. Offer genuine compliments throughout the session, such as “You’re nailing this shot!” or “These are turning out beautifully!” Your encouragement will help them feel appreciated and reinforce that they’re doing a fantastic job.

10. Be Patient and Let Them Adjust

Everyone takes a different amount of time to feel comfortable in front of the camera. Don’t rush the process or expect them to relax immediately. Be patient and give them time to adjust naturally. As the session progresses, they’ll likely start feeling more at ease, and you’ll capture more authentic shots.