The Biggest Myth I’ve Heard my Couples Say

Hey y’all, Kailah here busting a huge photography myth that I think I’ve probably heard at every. single. session. I’ve ever done.

Let me know if you’ve said any of the following, just a show of hands…

“We’re super awkward in photos.”

“We just don’t know how to look good in pictures.”

“I always look horrible in pictures.”

Yeah, ME TOO!

That’s right, photographers aren’t excluded from this way of thinking either. But I’ve based this whole business on breaking that limiting belief that you and your partner can’t look super cute in your photos, or feel amazing at your session.

So why do we all think that way? Maybe you’ve never had a flattering photo taken of yourself, or maybe your insecurities take hold when you look at your own picture – whatever the case, what if you could look at a photo and only see all the love that was there?

Here are some ways that I help my clients prepare for their sessions to avoid the “awkwardness” and “picture self doubt” that starts to creep in:

1. RESIST THE URGE TO PINTEREST!

I know it can be so easy to hop on and scroll for “ideas”. I mean that’s literally what Pinterest is for. BUT. It also creates self doubt, unrealistic expectations, and a fear that your own photos won’t look as good.

2. Make a session playlist!

I always ask my couples to sit down and compile some of their favorite songs, whether it be their first dance pick or songs that make them think of each other. I then add this to my own engagement session playlist and have it playing in the background during the shoot. This can be a great ice breaker that gives you a sense of familiarity!

3. Wear clothes that make you feel GOOD!

This may be kinda obvious, but I’ve had couples in the past show up in a gorgeous dressed up look… but it isn’t them. I could tell they wore what they saw on others and thought that was what they should do which is WHY I made all my future couples a style guide to help them create looks that work for THEM. If you aren’t comfortable, you’re not going to look comfortable in a photo!

4. If you feel awkward, you’re doing it right!

We don’t have paparazzi following us around in our day to day life, so why would it suddenly feel natural and comfortable to have a camera in our face when we’re kissing or having a cute, intimate moment? It wouldn’t! It can be super weird to have someone cheer you on while you kiss and snap a photo, so if you feel a little awkward you’re absolutely normal for it.

I hope this little pep talk makes you feel more ready and open to photos in the future, because the world needs more people and more couples like you! Don’t miss out on capturing those little things because of a feeling that is temporary, and even moreso – a feeling that can be untaught when you surround yourself with the right people!

XX,

Kailah