As an event photographer, your job goes beyond simply capturing moments. It's about telling a story, preserving memories, and making sure your subjects look their best. However, not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera. Whether you’re photographing corporate events, parties, or other gatherings, helping guests feel at ease is crucial for natural, candid shots. Here are some strategies to ensure your subjects feel comfortable and confident during the shoot.


1. Create a Relaxed Atmosphere

Start by fostering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Introduce yourself warmly and engage in casual conversation. Ask about their day, the event, or common interests. This not only helps in breaking the ice but also makes them feel valued and more comfortable around you.


2. Be Approachable and Friendly

Your demeanor plays a significant role in how guests perceive the photo session. Smile often, maintain good eye contact, and be genuinely enthusiastic. A positive attitude is contagious and can help ease any nervousness or tension the guests might be feeling.


3. Provide Clear and Gentle Guidance

Many people feel awkward because they don’t know what to do in front of the camera. Provide simple, clear instructions and offer gentle guidance on poses. Avoid technical jargon and instead, use everyday language. For example, instead of saying “stand at a 45-degree angle,” you might say, “turn your body slightly to the left.”


4. Encourage Natural Poses

Encourage guests to act naturally rather than striking stiff poses. You can suggest activities like talking to someone, holding a drink, or even walking. Capturing them in action often results in more authentic and relaxed photographs. Sometimes, candid moments turn out to be the best shots.


5. Use Humor and Light-hearted Comments

Laughter is a great icebreaker. Use humor to lighten the mood and make guests laugh. A well-timed joke or a light-hearted comment can transform a nervous subject into a relaxed and smiling one.


6. Compliment and Reassure

Positive reinforcement can do wonders. Compliment your subjects genuinely on how they look or how well they are doing. Reassure them that they look great and the photos are turning out well. This boosts their confidence and makes them more comfortable.


7. Show Some of the Shots

If appropriate, show them a few shots on your camera’s screen. Seeing how good they look can alleviate fears and make them more cooperative and relaxed for the rest of the session. However, use this sparingly to avoid them becoming overly critical of themselves.


8. Be Patient and Adaptable

Patience is key. Some guests might take a little longer to warm up to the camera. Be patient and give them time. Adapt your approach based on their comfort level. Sometimes, stepping back and capturing them from a distance can help them feel less scrutinized.


9. Respect Their Boundaries

Always be respectful of personal boundaries. If someone is extremely uncomfortable, don’t force them. Politely offer them the choice to opt-out of photographs. Respecting their wishes shows professionalism and empathy, which can make others around more willing to participate.


10. Keep the Focus on the Fun

Remind them that the event is about enjoyment and celebration. Emphasize that the photos are meant to capture the fun and special moments. When guests are having a good time, their genuine expressions will shine through, resulting in beautiful, candid shots.


Personal Experience: Transitioning to Event Photography

As I step into the world of event photography, I draw on a rich background of experience. For about two years, I second-shot at weddings, learning the art of capturing intimate moments and the dynamics of photographing people under various circumstances. Additionally, my full-time role as a photographer at a college institution has seen me shoot countless events, from graduation ceremonies to student activities. These experiences have honed my skills in making people feel at ease in front of the camera.


During my time at the college, I often encountered individuals who were camera-shy. By engaging with them in friendly conversation and providing gentle guidance, I was able to help them relax and enjoy the process. I found that showing them a few shots could boost their confidence, making them more comfortable for the rest of the session. These techniques, along with a positive and approachable attitude, are essential in my transition to event photography.


Final Thoughts

Being an event photographer is as much about connecting with people as it is about technical skills. By creating a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere, you can help guests feel at ease, resulting in natural and stunning photographs. Remember, the goal is to capture the essence of the event and the joy of the participants, so keep it light, fun, and professional.


Have an event in mind? Let's chat! I'm excited to help you capture your special moments and make sure everyone looks and feels their best in front of the camera.


Happy shooting!