We don’t always realize it, but as photographers, our job goes beyond taking the best photos. In order to be able to do that, we have to take on a few additional roles. We become excellent client managers, comedians, and even temporary best friends!
Posing for photos isn’t easy for most people, so part of our job is learning to help clients relax in front of the camera. Especially if you’re a new photographer, this can feel just as foreign as posing! But I’m here to help.
Through years of experience as a San Diego family photographer, I’ve collected a bunch of tips and tricks that I use for every shoot. And now, you can do the same! Here are my tips to help your clients loosen up and get the best photos with you.
Let’s Be Honest—Being in Front of the Camera is WEIRD
First, let’s level-set: having a camera pointed at your face is awkward. You know it. I know it. We’ve all seen clients freeze up the second we lift the camera.
Even as a family photographer, I’ve been there myself. But here’s the kicker: if we want authentic, joy-filled images, we’ve got to help clients relax in front of the camera. It’s the secret to getting those real-deal moments we all chase.
Why Relaxed Clients = Magical Photos
We all know the difference between a stiff smile and a true belly laugh. And guess what? That natural magic only shows up when our clients are comfortable.
When your client experience lets them feel relaxed in front of the camera, their walls drop. Their body language softens. Their expressions become genuine. And most importantly? Their connection shines.
We’re not just photographing poses. We’re photographing people. Families. Relationships. And that level of authenticity only happens in a space that feels safe and fun (aka tension-free).
So it’s on us to build that vibe. It starts before we even click the shutter.
What Not to Do: The Classic Mistakes That Add Tension
Want to know what unintentionally ramps up stress in a session? Here are a few things to steer clear of:
- Asking clients to say “cheese”
- Jumping straight into stiff posing
- Rushing through your shot list
- Micromanaging every little movement (especially with kids!)
I’m not saying structure is bad—I love a plan. But when we over-direct, we create pressure. And pressure doesn’t photograph well. (Especially with toddlers. Or dads.)
Instead, let’s give our clients permission to be imperfect. The wild curls, the grass-stained knees, the shy glances—those are the moments that matter. Let them unfold.
Prepping Before the Sessions to Help Clients Relax in Front of the Camera
Helping clients relax in front of the camera actually begins long before the session itself.
Your pre-session communication sets the tone. Every email, every questionnaire, and every “here’s what to expect” guide is a golden opportunity to ease nerves and build trust. (And yes, your vibe totally comes through in your words.)
I always send a prep guide with simple outfit tips, session flow, and a little pep talk about how there’s zero pressure to be perfect. I remind them the goal is connection, not perfection. That alone helps them take a deep breath before we even meet.
Bonus points if you can hop on a quick call or send a casual video message—something that gives them a sense of YOU. That familiarity makes them more comfortable showing up as themselves.
The One Thing I Always Do Before I Click the Shutter
Here’s my non-negotiable: I connect before I shoot.
I take the time to chat. Joke. Ask questions. If a kid loves dinosaurs, I ask them what their favorite one is. If a parent looks nervous, I crack a goofy joke. (Are my jokes good? No. But do they work? Absolutely.)
Why? Because trust matters. People won’t relax if they don’t feel safe. And I can’t help clients relax in front of the camera unless I’ve made a genuine connection first.
Sometimes, we’re so focused on getting the shot that we forget to see our clients. But when you pause to let the moment breathe? That’s when the good stuff starts rolling in.
Little Tricks That Make a Big Difference During the Shoot
Okay, so you’ve prepped your clients and built a little rapport. Now what? Here are a few in-the-moment tricks I swear by:
- Play music (especially something upbeat or kid-friendly)
- Let the little ones bring a favorite toy or comfort item
- Start with movement-based prompts (walking, spinning, tickling)
- Let go of “look at the camera” early on
I also talk a lot during sessions. I narrate what I’m doing and why, crack jokes, and offer tons of encouragement. The more relaxed I am, the more relaxed they are.
And when things get chaotic (because kids, right?), I lean in. The mess, the giggles, the meltdown cuddles—it’s all part of the story. Let it unfold.
What to Do When It’s Just Not Clicking (Pun Intended)
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things feel off. The energy is weird. The kids are cranky. The adults are stiff. (Or all of the above.)
Don’t panic. Pivot.
Take a break. Walk to a new spot. Give the kids a moment to reset. Sometimes, all it takes is shifting the scene or giving the family a minute to breathe.
You can also pull out a go-to game or silly prompt to change the energy. I’ve had sessions completely turn around just by asking a kid to tell me their best joke (the messier the punchline, the better).
The key is to stay calm, stay playful, and keep the pressure low. If you’re relaxed, they’ll start to mirror it.
How Connection Will Totally Transform Your Next Photoshoot
Once you prioritize connection and comfort, everything shifts.
Kids stop posing and start playing. Parents drop their shoulders. The energy turns from “we’re doing a photo session” to “we’re just hanging out.”
And that’s when the gold happens.
Your photos will stop looking staged and start feeling real. You capture the glances, the cuddles, the belly laughs—the stuff that parents will want to print big and hang in their homes.
So, if you want to elevate your work and stand out in a saturated market? Focus on how you help clients relax in front of the camera. That’s where your real superpower lies.
Want the Full Scoop? I’ve Got a Freebie for You!
Want to dig even deeper into how to help clients relax in front of the camera? I created a free guide just for you.
Inside, I break down what to say, how to prep clients before the session, and ways to keep the energy relaxed from start to finish.
Grab your copy here!
Whether you’re brand new to family photography or have years under your belt, this guide will give you fresh ways to connect and create meaningful, relaxed images.
Because awkward is optional. Connection is key. And magic? That comes when you let people be themselves in front of your lens.
Let’s Turn Awkward Into Awesome—Together
Helping clients relax in front of the camera isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s the game-changer. When your sessions feel more like a fun hangout than a photo shoot, that’s when the real magic shows up. And if you’re feeling like you need a little extra backup? I’ve got you.
Check out my resources for photographers! I offer a full toolkit to help you with editing, session prep, and even navigating client communication like a pro. Plus, I offer both online and in-person mentorship if you want more hands-on support. I love cheering on fellow photographers and helping you thrive.
Ready to level up your sessions and feel more confident behind the lens? Contact me today and let’s make some photo magic happen. And hey—if you want even more behind-the-scenes tips, real session moments, and a whole lotta photography inspo, come hang out with me on Instagram. I’d love to connect with you there!
