Before I start, let me just say that I am no expert…at least not yet. I’m not claiming that these tips are going to change your life. I just want to tell you what helps me in the hopes that it might help at least 1 other person out there.
Ok, so let me back it on up for just a minute & let you in on a little secret.
I get nervous, people.
Like, REALLY nervous…about everything. I didn’t used to be this way. I used to be super brave & pretty fearless as a kid…and I have 3 sets of stitches, 2 broken bones, a couple of sprained ankles & several missing {baby} teeth to prove it. Maybe you call that clumsy, but whatever, who asked you?!
Anyway, somewhere along the way, all of that changed & now I get nervous…a lot…and it seems to get worse as I get older. Before a session, I get major butterflies stampeding elephants in my stomach. I’ve found a few ways to calm myself down, so I thought I would share those tips with you. A couple of weeks ago I blogged about how to get fabulous engagement photos, which was geared toward the couples, but this post is for all of you photographers out there that need a little advice on how to calm those pre-shoot butterflies elephants.
Alright, here goes…
1. Be prepared. I’ve found that the #1 reason for my nerves is a fear of the unknown. Not knowing what to expect when I show up for a session is beyond nerve wracking, but if I have fully prepared myself the day before, then I’m a lot less nervous.
The 1st thing I do, if at all possible, is scout the location. I try to go to each location around the same time of day as I would for the session so I can get a good feel for how the light will look. Then I do a practice run. If you have someone that can go with you, that’s even better because you could take some test shots on a live model and you’ll be able to get a good idea of what your camera settings will be.
The 2nd thing I do is Pre-Visualize. I make a mental list of different poses and/or actions I’d like to happen in specific areas so I’m not scrambling for inspiration and drawing a blank in front of my precious clients. You have NO IDEA how much this helps. If you haven’t already, just try it. I promise it helps.
2. Relax! Easier said than done, I know, but if you’ve prepared, you can relax and HAVE FUN! Engagement sessions are a favorite part of the wedding experience because I am able to use that time to get to know my clients before their wedding. It’s a great practice run for the big day & it allows me to see how they interact together as a couple as well as allowing them to see how I work, which goes a long way in helping them to relax & have fun, too…a win-win!
I hope this at least helps someone a little bit, but at the very least, now you know that I was a clumsy brave kid.
Happy Monday y’all!
