When I think back to being a teenager, I remember how self-conscious I felt in front of a camera.

Even when we’re young, most of us find something to pick apart spotty skin, “puppy fat,” awkward smiles. Later in life, it might be the changes that come with parenthood, work stress, or simply the passing of time. For years, I avoided being in photos if I could and when I did see one of myself, I’d pick it apart. I thought I looked fat, my pimples and lazy eye were all I could see!

It’s only in the last decade after losing my Mum in her 60’s and some close friends who were only in their early 40s, that I’ve really realised how short life can be, and how important it is for your family and friends that you exist in photos too. None of them give a damn if you don’t look perfect in them. I wish I had more photos of those we have loved and lost regardless of how well they actually looked in the photos!

That realisation changed everything for me. I finally started to consciously make myself choose 2 or 3 things that I liked about myself in photos. It was usually my smile, or my hair looks nice or I like the outfit I was wearing, and I’d force myself to ignore the negative voices and eventually I started to feel comfortable in my own skin and even enjoyed being photographed. But looking back, I keep asking myself… what was I waiting for?

The Myth of the “Right Time”

So many of us put off photos until we feel more Ready! When we’ve lost a bit of weight, feel fitter, or when your childs front teeth grow back, or when life feels less busy. But the truth is, life doesn’t wait.

As a Suffolk Family Photographer, I see this all the time. Parents tell me they want to wait until they look “better” in front of the camera. But remember your children won’t stay the same size for long, and once those front teeth grow back, they’ll loose other teeth, and soon enough they’ll be teenagers and all those family moments in the meantime are too important to miss. 

Your loved ones don’t want polished perfection; they want you, as you are, right now.

How to Feel More Comfortable in Photos

The good news? It’s absolutely possible to feel relaxed and even enjoy being in front of the camera.

As a professional Portrait Photographer, I guide my clients every step of the way, from wardrobe suggestions to gentle posing that feels natural, never forced. My aim is always to help you see yourself the way your family sees you: with love.

Over time, I’ve learned that the secret of how to feel more comfortable in photos isn’t about looking a certain way. It’s about creating a space where you can drop the pressure to perform or look perfect and simply BE YOURSELF.

Photos as a Legacy

One of the most precious things you can leave behind isn’t material, it’s memories. Photos tell the story of your life, your love, your connection with those closest to you.

Whether I’m working as a Cambridge Family Photographer or here in Suffolk, I hear the same thing from clients again and again: “I wish I’d done this sooner”

Why Autumn Is the Perfect Time

If you’ve been putting off photos, I’d love to invite you to grab one of the last spaces in my Autumn Mini Photoshoots on the farm in Stoke By Clare this October. 

Sessions are short and relaxed (just 30 minutes)

They’re a more affordable way to update your family photos (£249 including 3 digital images)

The farm is at its most beautiful with autumn colours and golden light

You’ll walk away with memories captured forever, ready to enjoy in time for Christmas

And of course, if you’d prefer a longer, bespoke session later this year or early next year, you can book a full photoshoot on a date that suits you best.

Don’t Wait for Perfect

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: there’s no such thing as the “perfect” time. The perfect time is now.

Exist in photos. For yourself. For your family. For the people who love you most.

And if you have any questions, feel free to reach out and contact me here!