Feel Awkward in Front of the Camera? You’re in Good Company.

“Every time I’m in front of a camera, my brain goes blahhhhh”
“My smile feels fake.”
“My hands? No idea what to do with them.”

Sound familiar?
You’re not alone - this this is literally what 95% of my clients say before their photoshoot.

Even the most accomplished, successful, most Bossing-it businesswomen share they feel awkward when the camera turns their way. (Yes, even the ones who speak on panels, lead teams, or run workshops.)

It’s not that only models can rock great images - it’s about feeling You Got This in front of the camera.

Here’s the truth: feeling awkward in front of a camera is completely normal.

No one is born knowing how to pose or “look natural” on cue.
And honestly, it’s not your job to know.

It’s mine.

My job as your brand photographer isn’t to point a camera at you and click away hoping for the best.
It’s to guide you every step of the way - so you can relax, feel your confidence build, and actually enjoy the experience.

What happens when you work with me

We don’t start by shoving you in front of the camera, barking “say cheese!” and giving you just 5 minutes to stumble your way through.
*shudder*
We start by finding your vibe.

Before you get to the “Argh! There’s the camera!” part, we chat.
I ask you savvy questions and learn about your personal and professional goals, and what you’d like for your brand.
Even if you don’t think you 100% know yet - that’s what I’m here for.
(Former graphic designer, advertising creative, and stage/screen director here - I got you).

No one ever rocks up to the studio on the day of their photoshoot not knowing what’s happening. You’ll have support and guidance along the way getting you ready.

And on the day of your photoshoot?
We’ll talk, laugh (I have the worst jokes), put on some music (only the best vibes), you’ll get camera-ready with the help of one of my favourite hair & makeup artists - and before long, you’ll forget you ever felt nervous.

I’ll guide your posing and expression - no stiff or awkward photos here! - and coach you to find that sweet spot between polished and natural.
The version of you your friends, colleagues, and clients already know and trust.

And if you’d like, I’ll even show you a sneak peek of the back of the camera as we go - so you can see how incredible you already look.
And that awkwardness? Gone.

Because here’s the thing:

You don’t need to be “photogenic.” (There’s no such thing - it’s about lighting and a feeling of ease - both of which I take care of for you).
You don’t need to lose weight or learn how to pose like a model. (I have your back here).
You just need to feel safe, supported, and seen. (The very most important of all - I got you).

When that happens, the real you shines through - confident, authentic, and completely at ease.

And that’s what personal brand photography is about.

Not fake smiles.
Not awkward hands.
Just you - in your most genuine, magnetic light.

The You your ideal clients cannot wait to work with.

So if you’ve been putting off brand photos because you “feel awkward”…

Please know this:
Everyone feels that way at first.

The difference is, with the right photographer, you won’t for long.

Ready to stop hiding from the camera and start owning your visibility?
Let me help. Let’s chat about creating photos that feel like you - confident, relaxed, and ready to be seen.

Specialist personal branding photographer Tabitha Arthur in her inner-city Wellington photo studio.