How do you appear professional and authentic in business portraits?

Everyone knows the feeling: you’re sitting in front of the camera, and suddenly you feel anything but relaxed. Your posture slumps, your smile feels forced, and you wonder why business portraits always seem so stressful. Don’t worry—these simple tips will help you appear both professional and authentic.

1. Activate your posture muscles!

Before the shoot, give your back a quick workout. Simple exercises like shoulder rolls or gentle stretches will engage your muscles, making you stand taller and look more confident. After all, no one wants to look like a slouching question mark in their photos.

2. Chat with the photographer

You know how tension rises when waiting for the shutter click? My advice: relax before the shoot. Grab a coffee (or water) and chat with the photographer about travel plans, the weather, or your favorite music. This breaks the ice and helps you feel more at ease in front of the lens.

3. Hold something

A pen, notebook, or phone—it sounds simple, but props can work wonders. They subconsciously give you confidence while subtly telling a story. Plus, they make the pose feel more natural.

4. Smile—only if you want to!

Here’s the thing: you don’t have to grin like a Cheshire cat in every photo. A serious expression can be equally powerful and professional, depending on your role or personality. What matters most is that you feel comfortable, whether smiling or not.

5. Authenticity beats perfection

At the end of the day, it’s not about perfect hair or a flawless outfit. It’s about being genuine. Show who you are, embrace your individuality, and you’ll naturally appear professional.

With these tips, your next photoshoot will be more relaxed, and the results will shine. Try them out—you might surprise yourself!