The Camera Can be Your Friend, Really.
Getting in front of the camera is not about losing a certain amount of weight first or waiting for that latest break out of pimples to clear. It’s about having fun, overcoming self-doubt and feeling like you - the you that dances around the living room when your favorite song hits your playlist or that just signed a really big client and does an excited shimmy to celebrate.
But I know there are many of you who shy away when a camera is pointed your way.
Instead of surrendering and focusing on your flaws, let’s awaken, evoke, and ignite your inner champion. When the camera is pointed your way, I want you to think about how you want to feel (not how you expect to feel) when you see your image. Channel how you want and deserve to be perceived.
Recently, I did a little experiment and turned the camera around for a self-portrait - a reminder of what it is like to be the center of a lens’ attention. I went through the same process I offer clients. I asked myself how I wanted to look and be seen in the portrait and then I did the work to create that vision. I set up the studio (Beyonce wind machine and all), did my hair and make up and put together a few outfits that spoke to my vision - professional, elegant, strong, healthy, knowledgeable, wise, and friendly.
Do you see that when you look through these images? I do - which is what matters. Telling myself those words over and over again while I took those photos helped. They made me feel confident, purposeful and a little curious and excited because I was experimenting with new lighting. Ok, and the fan putting a little wind in my hair empowered me too.
For the longest time, I also didn't want to be in front of the camera - I was especially shy to be on video, but I realized that I need to share my gifts with the world, and I can't do that by hiding. Of course I sometimes focus on my flaws and insecurities that no one else probably sees. But I also realize I need to use my voice, share my thoughts and be seen. And guess what? You too deserve to be seen.
So let’s all ditch the self-hate talk and be a little nicer to ourselves. The next time a professional photographer or a friend points the camera your way, don’t shrink. Stand tall and say “Sure, I’d love to be in a photo”, and exercise your inner champion.