How to be Confident In Front of the Camera
The NUMBER ONE QUESTION I get asked is how to stay confident when posing.
For some people, getting photographed is a lot easier than for others. There are ones who are anxious, nervous and overall confused when they get in front of the lens.
Have you ever said or thought one of the following:
''I freeze when I see a camera in front of my face.''
''What should I do with my hands?''
''Am I required to smile or not?''
These are all valid questions, but it's easy to underestimate them. I want to share with you my own experience when it comes to being in front of the lens.
If you have been following me for some time, you know that I have a rich background in self-portraiture.
That allowed me to feel confident in my skin not only when I am also the one behind the lens, but when I am being photographed by others too.
I think it's very important to gain that self-confidence and to feel comfortable in your body.
Yes, it is easier said than done, but here are some tips to help you along the way.
1. PRACTICE MAKES.... BETTER!
Try this to practice 'posing' and get to know yourself:
Look at yourself in the mirror and try to find poses that suit you and that make you feel powerful
How does your face looks like in different lighting situations? What kind of poses work with different light sources (sunlight, a lamp in the house, a reflection from the sea)
Take selfies in good light and tilt your head, move your shoulders - explore how your body moves and what kind of poses work best for you.
We all walk, laugh, sit in a different manner and it's all part of what makes us distinguishable and interesting.
I can spot some of my friends from far away, before I see their faces clearly, because I can perceive the way they walk and my brain knows it can't be anyone else but them.
Knowing your poses will help you be more relaxed in front of the camera and once you're comfortable enough with those, you will have enough space to try something new.
2. FOOD KEEPS YOU FEEL MORE ENERGIZED
Junk food tastes jummy! What's better than a freshly baked pizza with oozing mozzarella and a lot of basil on top?
That said, junk food is called like that for a reason. It's mostly food that we enjoy a lot, but it isn't exactly the best for our gut health.
Fruits and veggies will make your body a lot happier, as well as a healthy amount of proteins. They will also make you feel more energized and that feeds confidence!
I have a lot of problems with gut health and food intolerance and you can immediately tell if I've been eating proper or not just by looking at my face.
(Btw, I am currently working very hard to make my health better because my immunity had recently reached a low point.)
Long story short: healthy food is good in the long run, but don't forget to treat yo'self from time to time! My favourite treat is small pizzas, of course! Made with puff pastry, mushrooms and tuna.
3. EXERCISE BOOSTS ENDORPHINS
It has been proven that regular moderate exercise helps beat depression, increases the quality of sleep, strengthens the heart and lowers blood pressure.
And guess what else?
You could see this one coming - exercise boosts your self-esteem too!
How is that possible?
Well, when we exercise, our brain produces chemical substances that are called endorphins. They trigger an elevated, positive feeling in the body, reducing the feeling of pain. In a way, they act as analgesics.
Have you ever danced, swam, biked or ran and, although you were dripping in sweat, you still felt SO GOOD? Those are endorphins at their best - giving you, as what is often referred to as a ''runner's high''!
It has been proven that such a simple yet frequently underestimated activity such as walking holds huge benefits for our brain.
Any kind of moderate exercise and physical activity is surely going to lift you up and provide a kick of self-confidence.
Give it a try!
