“I’m not comfortable in front of the camera.”
“I don’t know how to pose.”
“I’m not photogenic.”
“I don’t know how to pose.”
“I’m not photogenic.”
If you recognize yourself in one of these sentences, don’t worry: you are far from alone. Most of the people I photograph tell me exactly the same thing before a photoshoot. And yet, they often leave saying: “In the end, it was easier than I imagined.”
The Good News: You Don’t Need to Know How to Pose
Contrary to what we sometimes see on social media, a photoshoot is not about doing complicated poses one after another. My role is not to ask you to become a model for an hour.
I guide the session step by step: posture, hand placement, gaze, movement… everything is supported. The goal is not to recreate a perfect image, but to create something that feels like you.
Moving Is Often Easier Than Posing
One of the things that makes people the most uncomfortable is standing still. No worries — during the session, we move. We walk, look around, adjust a jacket, play with hair, sit down, turn around…
These small movements create more natural images and often help people forget about the camera. Paradoxically, the most spontaneous photos are sometimes the ones where we “pose” the least.
Hands: Everyone’s Biggest Concern!
Knowing what to do with your hands is probably one of the most common questions I hear.
A few simple ideas:
put one hand in a pocket
hold a jacket or piece of clothing
adjust your collar
lightly cross your arms
touch your hair
keep one hand relaxed by your side
And sometimes… doing nothing works perfectly too 🙂
The Location Matters More Than You Think
We rarely feel the same depending on where we are. Some people prefer nature for a calmer atmosphere. Others feel more comfortable in the city, where movement helps them forget about the camera.
In Montreal, places like Mont Royal, Old Montreal, or Downtown Montreal all offer very different atmospheres. Choosing the location is therefore also part of the experience.
And for those who are more shy, a studio session is always an option, away from everyone’s eyes.
You Don’t Need to Be Photogenic
I’m going to tell you something many people find surprising: I don’t really think “not being photogenic” exists.
Being photographed is an unusual experience. It is normal to feel a little tense at first. But with time, movement, and conversation, that discomfort often fades naturally. Helping with that is also part of my role.
The Most Important Thing: Stay Yourself
The best photo is not always the one where everything is perfectly placed. Often, it is the one where, for a few seconds, you forget you are being photographed.
A glance, a subtle smile, a natural expression… Sometimes, the simplest things tell the strongest stories.
Looking for a photographer in Montreal but worried that you don’t know how to pose? Don’t worry: most of the people I photograph had never done a photoshoot before.