Need help making subject feel comfortable in front of camera

[Southern22]

I have been trying to focus more of my efforts on photographing people but have found it a hard field to get into, specifically many of the people who I ask to photograph say they don't like getting their picture taken or that they are uncomfortable in front of a camera. Any tips to overcome this roadblock?

[johnastovall]

Three or four Bombay Sapphire gin martinis is a good start or depending on the neighborhood a short dog of MD 20/20.

[CaptainTom]

Originally Posted by Southern22

I have been trying to focus more of my efforts on photographing people but have found it a hard field to get into, specifically many of the people who I ask to photograph say they don't like getting their picture taken or that they are uncomfortable in front of a camera. Any tips to overcome this roadblock?

Here's what I think.. ymmv

1- CONFIDENCE
in yourself.
if you exude confidence in yourself and what you are doing it will go a long way to let the client know that they are in good hands.
2- No time deadlines.
I try to let the client know that we will move along at a comfortable pace, and if they are uncomfortable we'll slow down.
3- ATTITUDE
A good image is one where the subject has some attitude happening. A little acting is OK.
"90% of the attitude is the subject, and 10% is the photographer".
4- HUMOR
I don't let things get too serious. This ain't brain surgery, and if somebody
makes a mistake or something isn't exactly right we've got another chance.
5- I explain the laws of physics.
Sometimes the model will feel a little uncomfortable because of a pose (arm bent, legs bent, hips thrown, etc.) I explain how the camera only has one eye and I need to place the model in a position that looks good to this "one eyed" machine.
6- complement them all the time. "you are doing great, you'll love this, that's fabulous, etc." Lieing works.

[toverman]

Get to know the people a bit before whipping out your gear, too. This is especially helpful with kids, but can work for adults, too. Make it less about posing for photos and more about having a good time. After loosening them up, then you can go for poses if need be.

[big-buck]

humor works

[bondarnes]

First, I try to have everything set up ahead of time with the correct exposure already dialed in. This will eliminate a lot of fumbling with equipment and looking non professional.

Next, I almost always use a tripod, so that I can get my face from behind the camera and make eye contact with my subject. This helps them to relax and not be so camera aware.

Third, I prefocus on the subject and then just begin talking to them. They soon forget about the camera and relax. When their expression is good, I trip the shutter.