Personality without Pretense

So often we feel that when we are in front of a camera we have to be the “best version” of ourselves.

Of course we all have many expressions of self. Some people are more mutable than others, but we are all in a constant process of balancing and counterbalancing our life goals, our present needs, our moods, our level of hydration, hunger, etc…

With all this in mind, when you are preparing to stand in front of a camera for a portrait, headshot, engagement, or any other photoshoot which is planned with the intent to showcase you as the subject - not a product or a service - I recommend allowing your personality to shine through - without pretense.

What does this mean?

If we accept the following definitions of these words as:

Personality - “a set of distinctive traits and characteristics”

and

Pretense - “an inadequate or insincere attempt to attain a certain condition or quality; professed rather than real intention or purpose : PRETEXT”

Then we can agree that we are discussing on both parts the expression of the traits or qualities of yourself as a person. When I say personality without pretense, I mean that you are welcome to be the most authentic version of your wonderful self; and I only say version because I am acknowledging that everyday you might be a different version of yourself depending on whatever your emotional or physical state is. When I say without pretense I mean this:

Maude created this look herself!

Do not perform being yourself. Just be. Be yourself.

I think we sometimes feel pressured to be consistent and predictable. Say you’re an actor and your agent says, “ hey [your name], for your headshots I want to see the best version of your on your very best day.”

Well. No pressure, right?

Hair and makeup does a lot, and true, if you want to show your best self you’re better off not showing up hungover or un-showered, but how can we begin to define our best selves? That feels like a very broad idea, and one which we can’t action in a given moment whilst we stand in front of a camera, possibly feeling very vulnerable.

So be yourself, where you are, in whatever moment you find yourself in. Breathe. If you feel silly, be silly! If you feel vulnerable, be in that space!

I can’t speak for other photographers but I know for myself, having been on both sides of the camera, I make an effort to check in with whomever I’m working with. I want you to say when you need a break, when you’re feeling lost/uncertain/in need of direction. I suspect most photographers would be receptive to the needs of their models/clients. Remember that just because a photographer is behind the camera it doesn’t mean we have all the power, or that we are without insecurity. Both sides of the lens are vulnerable. Both photographer and subject are trying to please the other and make them feel that their artistry is seen and appreciated.

Sadie rocks this MOD vibe

When I shoot portraits I aim to capture something true about the person who is sitting for me. I know you have many facets, and I know, like a diamond, the light has to reach each facet to really let it shine. I want to create a safe space for you to shine. Before every shoot I take the time to find my center, so that when you walk in the room I can focus my energy on you. Focus your energy inward, and then let it leak out when that lens is pointed your way. Show us your personality - without pretense - and your best self will make it into the photos.

Check out more examples of my work by clicking the image below!