“Oh no, I don’t know how to pose!”
Joana @ Photoshoot in São Miguel island
It’s so ok to be apprehensive if you are not used to it or if it’s your first time.
What is it going to be like? Will the photographer be nice? What kind of places are we going to? These are all fair questions.
Well, first thing first: A photoshoot is an awesome experience. Even more in the Azores, especially in São Miguel Island. The scenery is different from the rest of the world.: Lakes, Forests, Coastlines. And besides all of that, I have been a professional for many years, both as a Photographer, a Tour guide, and a Marine Biologist passionate about wildlife.
On top of all that, photos are eternal. It will freeze time and capture that beautiful smile of yours forever. Specially with this island as a background.
So the first thing you need to do is book that experience immediately and take that leap of faith. You won’t regret it.
Ok, now you made your reservation ( If not I know you will at some point, hahaha), everything is set but a doubt remains in your head:
- Oh no, I don’t know how to pose for the camera.
Don’t worry, I got you covered :)
“You are not alone and many people book this experience for the very first time”
Every year, arround the world more people are booking professional photoshoots during their vacations. As a family trip, a couple or even single travelers. They understand to beauty of this experience. Even more when you combine with a local tourguide that can take you to the most special places.
But for everybody there’s always that initial step. You are not alone and many people book this experience for the very first time. Remember, I’m your photographer and your friend. I’m here to help you. So, here are some pro-tips just for you:
Relax & Enjoy
Did you know that the majority of photographers start with a simple walk? That’s right. Just a walk. This is because it’s such a natural move and we can capture your authentic self. Can you imagine? Just walk on a field, a tea plantation, by a lake. It’s that easy. Just relax and enjoy, look at the landscape, and take a normal breath in the fresh and pure air of the Azores.
Side by side
2. Curves
Whether you’re a woman or a man, straight lines don’t go very well. For example, do you prefer to see a person with both arms hanging loose or, one arm on a hip and the other close to your head, while you stroke your air? Or you are a man, a hand on the pants pocket and the other adjusting the sunglasses on the face?
Under this text, there are some real examples of real people who decided to book this experience with me. So they are not models. Just tourists. But you already can see how combining curved lines with triangles and straits lines creates a beautiful body composition.
Body Lines
Man posing -Niksa
Posing curves with triangle. Noura at photoshoot Azores Islands
It’s all about combining curves with triangles, especially if you are a lady. Also, look for examples on social media. Instagram and Pinterest are excellent for taking examples, with fresh ideas.
On the other hand, if you don’t want to be worried so much about posing, you can leave it to me, but training and gaining new ideas before the photo session is always preferable. This way when we meet at the photoshoot you already will have some “cards on the table” to play with. Above all, what I want is for you to have fun. To enjoy. To laugh and visit this magnificent island :)
3. Props
I’ve covered this matter in another article of this blog but it’s always good to refer them. Props are accessories you can use during a photo session. It can be as simple as sunglasses, a hat, or more complicated such as a big mirror or a self-illuminated umbrella.
Props add that extra level of detail that helps to improve the overall esthetics and to tell better your story.
Picture this, you are sitting and relaxing in the grass by a tree trunk. The photo would be awesome, but if you have a book with you, we could already get 2 different stories. Or if you are walking on a path along the woods while grabbing a red umbrella, that picture will be awesome. The umbrella in this case not only adds an extra element, but the red contrasts with the green of the woods. Even better if you have red lipstick and red shoes.
See how everything joins together in great harmony to create a different story?
Be creative and talk to your photographer about your thoughts.
Umbrella as a Prop - Marian Photoshoot
4. Hydration
I know it sounds basic, but many people forget to drink during the photoshoots. They are having fun, they are walking and all this after a while it starts to show. Specially on dry lips, and on their mood. Keeping yourself hydrated not only maintains your good spirit but also helps your skin to be more healthy.
But you don’t have to worry about that. I always provide a Bottle of water for you ;)
5. Comfortable shoes and clothing?
In the majority of times, comfortable clothing is not the most fashionable, unless it’s the look you're looking for. And this is all fine. It all depends on how you would like to see yourself(s).
But if not, I do recommend bringing both: 1) comfortable shoes/clothes until you reach the location and then; 2) switch on-site for a dress, high hills, or others of your choice.
You see, sometimes we need to walk from the car to the destinations such as in the photo below. This incredible lake takes a 10-minute walk on a dirt road. Other places might take more. So take that into account. We are here to photograph in natural light and a natural landscape.
They look so happy, don't they?
Natalia in 7 Cidades Volcano.
So, this is all for this article. I hope you got some ideas and now you can feel more comfortable in taking photos with me, at San Miguel island (Azores). Let’s explore together and register those moments.
Thank you so much for reading this and if you enjoy it, take the opportunity to read more of my blog.
Kind regards from the Azores. :)
