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How To Get Over The Fear of Taking Photos and Video in Public - Even If You're Camera Shy

Updated: Jul 31


Let's be real – creating content in public can feel awkward. Whether it's posing for photos or shooting a video, the thought of all those eyes on you can be enough to send your heart racing.


But what if I told you it doesn't have to be a cringe-fest? What if it could actually be FUN, empowering, and a total confidence booster?



As a personal branding photographer who's worked with countless women to overcome their camera shyness, I know firsthand that this fear is more common than you might think. In fact, I used to be terrified of being in front of the camera myself!


But I pushed through those fears and discovered a world of creative expression, self-discovery, and confidence-building that I never knew existed. And today, I want to share that journey with you.


Feeling awkward about taking photos of yourself in public? I've been there. But trust me, it doesn't have to be a cringe-fest!

Here's how I got started:

In the early days of my business, I much preferred being behind the camera, capturing other people's stories. But as my brand grew, I realized I needed to step into the spotlight and share my own.


At first, the idea of creating content in public was daunting. But I was determined to overcome this fear, so I started small.I began shooting in familiar places like my favorite coffee shop, where the friendly baristas offered encouragement and support.

I also enlisted the help of my son, who became my first "director." His playful energy and creative ideas made the process so much more fun, and his presence helped me relax and let go of my inhibitions.


Gradually, I started venturing out to new locations, experimenting with different poses, props, and video styles. And you know what? The more I did it, the easier it became. I realized that people weren't judging me as harshly as I was judging myself. In fact, most people were too busy with their own lives to even notice me.


10 Tips for Conquering Your Camera Shyness

Now, I'm sharing the tips that helped me transform my fear of the camera into a love for creating content in public:


  1. Start Small and Familiar: Begin in a comfortable environment where you won't feel overwhelmed.

  2. Bring a Friend for Support: A trusted companion can provide encouragement and make the experience more enjoyable.

  3. Use a Tripod and Self-Timer: This gives you control over the framing and allows you to experiment without feeling rushed.

  4. Practice Makes Perfect: The more you practice, the more confident you'll become. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun!

  5. Embrace the Awkwardness: It's okay to feel a little silly at first. Just laugh it off and keep going.

  6. Find Your Light: Good lighting can make or break a photo or video. Look for natural light sources like open shade or indirect light near a window. Avoid harsh overhead lights or direct sunlight.

  7. Play with Movement: Even small movements like fixing your hair or adjusting your sunglasses can add a natural feel to your content.

  8. Tell a Story: What are you doing? Where are you going? What are you feeling? Use your photos and videos to share a glimpse into your world. Check out the narrative prompts in my POV Playbook for inspiration!

  9. Interact with Your Environment: Lean against a wall, sit on a bench, or playfully touch a flower. This can help you look more relaxed and at ease.

  10. Confidence is Key: Remember, you are beautiful, powerful, and worthy of being seen. Let that confidence radiate through your images and videos.


The Power of Visibility

Creating content in public is not just about getting pretty pictures or videos. It's about self-discovery, self-love, and owning your power. It's about challenging the unrealistic beauty standards that we're bombarded with every day and embracing our unique individuality.


And it's not just for professional photographers or influencers. Anyone can benefit from creating content in public. It's a powerful tool for building confidence, expressing creativity, and documenting your life journey.


So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera (or your phone) and start capturing your own magic. You might just be surprised at what you discover.


If you're ready to take the next step, be sure to check out my No More Bad Photos course and the POV Playbook. They're packed with resources to help you overcome your camera shyness and create scroll-stopping content.

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