Most people turn up to a photoshoot feeling slightly on edge.
That’s completely normal. You’re standing in front of someone with a camera, unsure what to do, and probably thinking you’re going to look awkward.
The reality is very different.
My job isn’t just to take photos — it’s to make the whole process feel straightforward, relaxed, and natural from start to finish.
Before the session
Before we even meet, we’ll have a quick chat.
Nothing formal — just a simple conversation about what you need, where you’d like to shoot, and what you want the photos to feel like.
If you’re not sure on location or style, I’ll suggest something that fits.
If you’re still deciding what type of session is right for you, this guide on headshots vs portraits can help you figure that out.
The first ten minutes
The first ten minutes are always the same — a bit of awkwardness while you settle in.
That’s expected. You’re getting used to the space, the camera, and the whole idea of being photographed.
I’ll usually keep things moving during this time. We’ll walk, talk, and ease into it rather than jumping straight into posed shots.
If you’re worried about how you’ll come across, these tips for feeling less awkward in photos will give you a good idea of how natural the process actually is.
How I direct (without making it weird)
I won’t leave you standing there wondering what to do.
I’ll guide you with simple, clear direction — small adjustments, natural movements, and prompts that help things feel real rather than staged.
You won’t be forced into anything that feels unnatural.
If you’ve read about my approach to portrait photography in Fareham, it’s the same idea here — identity and comfort come first.
What the session actually feels like
Once you settle in, it stops feeling like a photoshoot.
It feels more like a walk, a conversation, or just time spent doing something slightly different.
That’s when the best images happen — when you’re not thinking about the camera at all.
If you’re booking a professional image for work, you might also find it useful to read why your LinkedIn headshot matters and how a good image can change how you’re perceived.
After the session
Once we’re done, I’ll sort through the images and remove anything that doesn’t work — mid-blinks, awkward expressions, or duplicates.
You’ll get a private online gallery with the best images, fully edited and ready to download or use.
The whole process is designed to be simple. No overcomplication, no endless back-and-forth.
What you actually need to bring
You don’t need anything complicated.
Wear something you feel comfortable in, dress for the location and weather, and bring anything specific you want included.
If you’re unsure what works best, I’ll guide you beforehand.
Booking your first session
If you’ve been putting it off because it feels like a big deal, it’s really not.
Most people leave saying the same thing — it was much easier than they expected.
My portrait sessions start from £65, and family sessions from £95. Learn more about my portrait photography services, browse the portfolio, or get in touch to book your first session.
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If you’re preparing for a session, these guides may help:
