1, 2, 3...say CHEESE!

Not all people were created to be natural in front of the camera.

Growing up, we were used to people taking our photo saying "Say cheese!" often accompanied by a "1...2...3!" More often than not, we ended up with fake, wide grins, sometimes toothless, and at times, eyes wide open. As we became adults, some habits didn't change. We think a lot of the face we will show in front of the camera. As per my experience in being a photographer, too much thinking or being overly conscious resulted in a tentative look, flashing a half-baked smile or a deer in front of the headlights look, or a blank stare.  

That's not such a bad thing since we are not professional models anyway. Models know their angles and the "look" they need to show. The job of the photographer is to make ordinary people to look good and natural. Ever since I was trained by the top headshot photographer in the world, Peter Hurley, my view on taking photos of people has permanently changed. Now, it is more about deliberately bringing out the natural beauty in people. Not because of my technical know-how, or even photoshop skills, but by being a director.

Here's an example. 

I photographed Ryan during his wedding. He's a cool dude. I had heaps of beautiful shots of him, which can be seen on our wedding gallery page. However, it was a different story when he was in a studio and all the lights were on him. He felt very uncomfortable. That is a normal and valid feeling for non-models. 

I got my work cut out for me. It was my job to make him comfortable. It was not his fault that his smile "freezes" after I click the camera. It was just a matter of loosening up. By using some directing techniques, I saw the natural smiles, albeit fleeting. Again, it was my job to capture that fleeting smile.

Now this is his natural smile. Subtle difference, but big impact. He is beaming with confidence! That's a big plus in one's CV or LinkedIn profile.

Here's another example.

Meet Cherrie, she's a lovely lady. She was also not comfortable in front of the camera. She was more comfortable in having her photos taken by her kids or friends. But in a studio setting? Again, a very different story. 

Here are the before and after shots.

Subtle difference, but again, big impact. It is the photographer's job to make that happen. That's why professional photographers are here to stay.

Note: Identity Headshots was formerly called Fotojorno.