Hi! I want to start off by saying that I am in no way shape or form an expert at taking pictures, a professional poser, or anything in between.

For the longest time, I would always see my peers exert so much confidence and cute, fun poses on the pictures they would post. I wanted to mimic that! I just had no idea how. As someone who was always awkward or uncomfortable when someone else took pictures of me, I didn't know the right approach.

Now, as I'm learning, I'm gaining new tips and insight on how to look more confident, on how to pose better, on how to overall make photoshoots fun and less awkward!

Don't Think, Just Do

This is easier said than done. It can be extremely uncomfortable when you're trying to take pictures in front of a cute landscape and there are other people around. The best thing to start being awkward with pictures is to not care about the surrounding population or who may or may not be looking at you. Instead of thinking about how others are viewing you as you pose, forget about it. Let it leave your mind. Take the pictures you wanna take without worry or influence of anyone else. It can take awhile to get the hang of, but you got it!

Take a Few Practice Shots

To get the jitters out of the way, I suggest standing awkwardly in front of the camera or whoever is taking your picture and stand there. Just get used to having a camera and a person right in front of you. The photos will look incredibly awkward (not softening the blow here), but at least you'll get a feel for what it'll be like when you model and you'll feel a bit more comfortable.

Do It With a Friend!

Posing and taking pictures alone can be scary! Having someone to do it with you is much more comforting! It adds to your confidence and plus you both will have great memories together!

Look It Up

Something that helps when you're confused on what to do with your hands or how to stand is simply looking it up! There are so many resources at your fingertips! Instead of doing the same three poses over and over, look up some other ones and try them out!

Hype Yourself Up

Seriously. You are gorgeous! And you deserve to tell yourself that! If you are feeling a little low, go in front of a mirror and repeat things you like about yourself. Practice complimenting yourself! Loving yourself shines brightly in every photo!

Love the Bad and the Good!

Understand that not every picture taken is going to look great. Out of 100 pictures, maybe only one or two really look great. The key is to embrace them all! Love them all! And keep trying! You're killing it!