I have invited author, artist, speaker, yoga instructor and creativity coach, Nancy Falconi to share her insights on what it takes to shine in front of the camera…….

Top 5 Tips for Shining in front of a Camera
By Nancy Falconi

In the age of social media you have 7 seconds or less to make an impression. A professional photograph is one of the best ways to do that. Everyone has at least some kind of photograph SO how do you make yours stand out? Experts say that an image that says “I love what I do” & “I love my life” will really help boost your profile.

It has been my experience that at least 90% of the people I have photographed have major levels of discomfort in front of the camera. I think it must rank right up there with fear of public speaking and death.

Part of the fear seems to stem from a feeling that we have to measure up to the models we see in advertising campaigns. I hear comments all the time like: my nose is too big, my thighs are too big, I am too short, my eyes….. However I believe a major part of the fear stems from much deeper issues. Helping individuals be at ease and shine in front of the camera is my specialty. My colleague referred to her recent photo shoot as “Transformational” and another said “My entire experience with you and your team yesterday, changed my life forever.”

In my 10 years (plus) of experience photographing lifestyle/people images for major National & International clients, I have culminated a list of my Top 5 tips to shine in front of the camera which will lead to a successful photo & video session, so that the results are a reflection of the true, beautiful you.

5. Investing in yourself

Your commitment to your overall wellness rituals really becomes apparent when in front of studio lights. Taking the time to eat well, exercise, sleep, hydrate and meditate. Also investing in yourself includes working with professionals like a stylist and makeup artist to prepare for your shoot.

4. Breath

When you are nervous your sympathetic nervous system gears up, this flight or fight reflex of our body does not make for natural photographs! The mouth, throat, eyes tense up, shoulders rise…. Breath breaks are something I lead my subjects through many times during shoots to get the parasympathetic nervous system helping us out during the photos.

3. Love your life

Doing what you love – living an authentic life – being happy and inspired in your life. Your joy will shine through during the session. The success of your photos is a direct representation of how much you love your life and my next point, of how much you love yourself.

2. Love yourself

A positive self image is essential. My photo shoots are a no negative self talk zone. Self love is a key component to exude confidence in front of the camera.

1. Presence Is the magic ingredient.

When you love yourself and love your life- Presence abounds. Being grounded and present is the number one most important factor for shining in front of a camera. Posture, confidence, expression all flow into place and you start to communicate your unique beauty, especially through your eyes.

 

Nancy Falconi

Nancy Falconi is the author of The Creative Heart: Five Steps to Unleash Your Unique Creative Genius and of Elephants Up Close. She is also an artist, speaker, yoga instructor and creativity coach.

In 2002 Falconi started a commercial and editorial photography business, which developed an international clientele, including Entrepreneur magazine, Yoga Journal, Organic Gardening, Canadian Living, Today’s Parent, Children’s Aid Society and the Toronto Regional Conservation Authority. Many of her images have been used in international advertising campaigns to convey emotional concepts. Her photographic vision is the foundation of the many creative aspects of her work as an author, painter, photographer and filmmaker.

The wisdom and experience gained during her transition from corporate to creative life led her to develop the Creative Heart(TM). This unique process helps people unblock their creativity by connecting with the wisdom of their heart and right brain to find innovative solutions and ultimately create the life of their dreams.  The Creative Heart process is the foundation of Falconi’s signature talks, programs, products and her book, The Creative Heart: Five Steps to Unleash Your Unique Creative Genius.