Many models starting out in this line of work will be uncomfortable looking at the camera. Modeling is an even bigger challenge, I think, because you need to pose in various positions for strangers. What I recommend doing is first looking at the camera with a straight, natural face. You don’t have to smile at first, instead what you can do is turn your head from left to right.

Crossing the legs is also a very natural pose. Sometimes when I’m shooting models, I start a conversation on a light topic. I ask them to sit down and cross their legs. I ask them to introduce themselves and talk about their favorite dessert or animal. It is important to be comfortable with the topics you are talking about.

As a personal preference, I like to start with the model’s fingers and nails because this is what many models take pride in. Show your nails to the camera. If a model has clean and well-groomed finger and toenails, she will feel more confident showing them off, especially if they are decorated in pastel hues, hot pink, and various patterns. I think it is easier to show the hands in front of a camera than the body. Start a conversation about your nails. If you have a male model, maybe you can talk about his exercise routine.

Humor is also an advantage, since it always helps the subject to relax and be more natural. Beauty is natural; having fun is natural; Smiling is natural and being happy with what you are doing is totally natural. She begins to open up and find her inner charm. You, as a photographer, should encourage them and reaffirm their beauty and that everything they are doing is good, and that no pose is the wrong pose. A good model needs to have a good videographer who can encourage the aspiring model.

Affirmations are another great way to feel confident in front of the camera. Repeat positive words like beautiful, sun, bubbles, and butterflies. You can say these things to the camera. The more you do this, the less shy you will become. Hopefully, you will soon realize that posing in front of a camera is not that bad at all. Modeling less rehearsed and choreographed is your goal.

In modeling, the challenge here is trying to overcome the fear that a cameraman will lewd you and want to bring out your sexy side. The photographer will do everything possible to get the best image of you on film because it is his reputation that is at stake, so the photographer will help you relax by helping you discover the true essence of your beauty. As you gain experience working in front of the camera, you will become less shy and more confident, so good luck.