5 Simple Ways To Make Camera-Shy Clients Feel At Ease

In this digital age, where everyone’s used to selfies and filters, a professional photoshoot can still make clients feel nervous, awkward, or just plain camera shy. Even if they’re used to snapping pics every day, being in front of a real camera feels different. As a photographer, you’re the one directing the shoot, setting the energy, and guiding every move. Clients pick up on your energy, so it’s important that you stay relaxed, keep things moving, and set a vibe that helps them feel at ease and natural in front of the camera.

Here are five ways to help camera-shy clients chill out, get comfortable, and actually enjoy the shoot so you can capture their best selves.

1. Chat Before You Shoot

Honestly, the first few minutes are everything. Camera-shy clients often walk in stiff, unsure, and staring at the floor. Let them settle in. If you’re shooting in a studio, try asking about their favorite playlist, comment on something in the space, or chat about how their week’s been. Small moments like this break the tension and help them loosen up before the camera even comes out.

It’s all about making them feel like they’re hanging out with someone they trust. Once that’s happening, they start moving, relaxing, and the best shots just happen.

2. Take a Few Test Shots

I always start with a few quick test shots before diving in. I check the angles, lighting, and how the client moves. Sometimes I’ll even let them peek at the screen—it gets a laugh, sparks conversation, and immediately makes camera-shy clients feel more relaxed.

I’ve seen it a hundred times: the moment they realise they actually look good, shoulders drop, smiles come out, and the session suddenly feels effortless. Those first few clicks help build confidence and keep the whole vibe easy and fun.

3. Give Gentle Direction

Camera-shy clients don’t need stiff poses or long lectures—they need small, clear nudges. I like to guide them with easy suggestions like “take a step this way” or “tilt your chin slightly,” keeping my energy upbeat and playful. As they follow your direction, drop little comments like “yes, that’s perfect” or “just like that” to show you’re noticing their effort—it goes a long way in boosting confidence and keeping them relaxed.

By the time you’re halfway through, camera-shy clients are often moving, laughing, and starting to own their shots without even realizing it.

4. Let the In-Between Moments Shine

Some of the best shots happen when clients aren’t thinking about the camera. For couples it could be a quick laugh while they adjust each other’s jackets or brush hair from a face. Maybe a shared glance between parents and kids, holding hands, or a gentle nudge and playful interaction that feels real for families. For solo clients it’s those little stretches, spins, or glances that show personality without a stiff pose.

These moments are pure gold because they’re real, effortless, and packed with vibe. Keep your eyes open, move with them, and let those tiny unscripted actions tell the story. They often become the shots that make the session unforgettable.

5. Keep Your Energy Up

Trust me, camera-shy clients pick up on your vibe instantly, so stay switched on. Take a quick stretch, roll your shoulders, shake your arms out—whatever gets you moving and feeling alive. I like to pace a little, walk around the set, and reset my own energy between shots

Being fully present and engaged makes a world of difference. When you’re moving, noticing small gestures, and keeping your energy high, clients start to relax, play around naturally, and the best shots almost take themselves.