Raise your hand if the idea of being in front of a camera makes you want to run and hide

 

You're not alone.

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As a branding photographer working with small businesses all over Vermont, I hear this all the time. From therapists to bakers, wellness coaches to makers—so many brilliant, creative entrepreneurs struggle with one thing:

“I know I need to show my face more… but I hate having my photo taken.”

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Whether it’s awkwardness, self-doubt, or just never knowing what to do with your hands (trust me, I get it), this feeling is so real and is very common. But here’s the good news: you can and will feel confident and (gasp!) even enjoy your branding session—with the right approach and the right photographer (oh heyyy, that’s me  Barbee👋).

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Let’s break this fear down and talk about how to overcome it with intention, kindness, and a whole lot of strategy.

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Why So Many Small Business Owners Avoid Being in Front of the Camera

It’s not vanity. It’s vulnerability. It's putting yourself out there which is scary.   

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Most small business owners everywhere, really are the face of their brand. So being on camera feels personal. You’re not just showing your product—you’re showing yourself.

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Common thoughts that come up:

• “I hate like how I look in photos.”

• “I always feel like I look awkward or that I'm trying too hard”

• “I don’t want to look sales-y.”

• “I’m not photogenic.”

 

Spoiler alert: Photogenic isn’t a personality trait. It’s a comfort level.  And I'm here to help you find that sweet comfort spot.  Like any other skill, being comfortable in front of the lens is a practice (take it from me, I'm the perfect example!)​

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What Makes a Branding Session Feel Less Scary

The secret? It’s not about being “camera ready.” Well, not entirely. It’s about having a photographer who:

• takes the time to not only get to know your brand, but you as a person (if the vibes don't fit, it's okay with find someone else)

• Understands your brand vibe and goals (they will know what questions to ask to get real, deep, and poignant answers from you)

• Makes the session feel relaxed and effortless- not at all like you're working (cuz you actually are.. how fun!!) 

• Coaches you with gentle direction, good times, and movement

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During every session, my goal is to create a safe, low-pressure space where we can play around with poses, props, outfits and environments—so you can actually have fun and feel like you on camera.  And don't be afraid to think a little outside-the-box.  I think getting weird can be a good thing.

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How I Help Female Entrepreneurs Feel Natural in Front of the Lens

Here’s what my clients say makes a difference:

✅ In Depth Pre-Session Planning: We talk thoroughly through your brand voice + personality, what favorite (and least favorite) angles are, and the feeling you want to give off—whether that’s warm and welcoming or bold and bossy (both are great and both service their purpose- your clients will naturally gravitate towards you)

✅ "There Is No Time To Rush": My favorite Tara Brach quote and mantra I've been saying for the last few years. This is not a 10-minute photo booth, this is not a "quick photo shoot" or a "fast headshot". We move at a pace that feels good, with space to take breaks (yes, that includes lunch and snack breaks), check the back of the iPad (we are pros and shoot tethered over here1), and adjust as we go.

✅ Using Natural Prompts, Not Posing: I love to use movement-based prompts, conversations, and “do this, not that” guidance to get authentic expressions and flattering posture. You’ll never be left wondering what to do.  We'll play around a bit and see what works. 

✅ You Don’t Have to Be “On” the Whole Time: Branding sessions can include lots of non-headshot shots (to give those smiling cheeks a break!)—we can crafts flatlays, organize a group of products or tools, hands at work, showing aspects of your space and its details, and so much more*

 

*PRO TIP: You’re not the only subject of your photos, and these "filler" images are incredible for an array of marketing uses.  We can really think about these filler images and get strategic about what kinds of shots we want- from shots of a mug and a journal to full on color stories (great for seasonal and holiday announcements), the possibilities are endless.

 

From “I Hate the Camera” to “That Was Actually Fun!”

Now, I can tell you about it myself, but I think my clients can do it better: ​

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“Barbee immediately just got the essence of my business. She captures the joy of my biz, BirdieBlue, and her work is truly magic.”

— Kate H., Owner of BirdieBlue

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“Barbee is one-of-a-kind! She's a talented brand photographer and a great person to work with. The whole process, from start to finish, was clear and comprehensive. The resulting photos brought my brand to life in exactly the way I had envisioned.”
— Bethany Sadler-Jasmin

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“Absolutely loved working with Barbee!! She is so fun and down to earth, any nerves about being in front of the camera... quickly went away!”
— Sasha Quattrocci

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“Working with Barbee was great... I appreciated how she brought an excited and easeful energy to a big day for my business.”
— Allison H. Jacob

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“Barbee proved to be a talented and intuitive photographer and a very easy person to work with... Barbee was a great communicator, super professional, and really chill.”
— Christine, Owner of Tender Warrior Co.

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"Barbee made sure to spend the time getting to know us and helping us feel comfortable in front of the camera so that in our special moments she could capture our authentic connections."
— Callie 

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"Barbee was wonderful to work with!!! She made us feel super comfortable and captured each moment naturally and beautifully."
— Victoria 

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"Barbee was wonderful to work with, and made our shoot a really fun experience for two people who aren't great in front of a camera."
— Emily & Simon

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"Barbee is incredibly friendly, laidback, and creative, and her artistry is reflected in her photographs."
— Marcie

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"Barbee is a great communicator, diligent, professional and talented. Highly recommend this service!"
— Alexandra

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"Barbee is an outstanding photographer that turns a client's vision into a reality."
— Tanaisha

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Ready to Feel Confident and Camera-Ready?

If you’ve been putting off branding photos because you hate being on camera, I want you to know this:

You don’t have to be a model.
You just have to be you—and I’ll guide the rest.

📸 Let’s make it easy, fun, and totally on-brand.
Click here to get started, or reach out for a free call where we’ll chat about your goals, fears, and ideas for your session.