Stop Telling Your Photography Clients “Act Natural” and Try This Instead
If I could retire one phrase from the photography world forever, it would be this one:
“Just act natural.”
Make sure you read to the very end for a HUGE pro tip that’s gotten me through so many sessions when I’ve been feeling totally “dry.”
Why “Act Natural” Doesn’t Work
Storytelling or documentary-style photography absolutely has its time and place. But I can’t tell you how many clients have expressed total exasperation at being in front of the camera and being told to “just act natural.”
What does that even mean?
Clients aren’t photographers. They’re relying on you for more than just your ability to click the shutter and edit afterward. They’re trusting you to create an experience that helps them feel confident and connected.
Don’t cheat your clients out of that and call it “storytelling” when what’s really happening is leaving them stranded, trying to figure out how to look cute on their own.
Do This Instead: Direction + Prompting
The next time you’re on the beach in Virginia Beach (or wherever your next session is!), try this approach instead.
Give a specific direction or pose:
“Walk down the beach holding hands.”
“Stand belly to belly looking at each other.”
“Sit side by side all snuggled in close.”
Then give them a prompt — something that encourages a small movement or a natural reaction:
“Whisper your favorite ice cream flavor like it’s a secret.”
“Take a deep breath and sway side to side.”
“Look at each other and laugh about what you had for breakfast.”
Encourage constantly.
Don’t go quiet. Silence kills confidence. Say things like:
“That looks so good!”
“You’re doing amazing!”
“YES—do that one more time!”
When clients hear affirmation, they loosen up. Their real personalities start to shine—and that’s when your images come alive.
A Real Session Example
Here’s how that sounds in real life:
“Cami, walk down the beach toward the water holding the baby. Peek back every once in a while as you walk!”
“Steven, you and Nora—chase Cami down the beach!”
“Nora! Go get Mommy!”
Instantly, the moment becomes playful and natural. The laughter, movement, and emotion you were hoping for start happening organically—all because you gave specific direction instead of asking them to “act natural.”
Why Direction Helps You Too
I promise, giving your clients direction isn’t limiting your creativity—it’s enhancing it.
Clients want to feel held, encouraged, and confident that you know what you’re doing. The burden of posing and prompting shouldn’t rest on their shoulders—it’s part of your expertise as a professional photographer.
Flexibility Is Key
That said, not every client wants to prance through a field, splash in the ocean, or run around tickling each other. Some just want the perfect Christmas card photo—and that’s okay.
Serving your clients should always be your top priority. Some sessions will light your creative fire; others might feel more routine. Both are valid. Both deserve your best.
My HUGE Pro Tip for Dry Seasons
Feeling stuck or uninspired before a session? Here’s my go-to trick that never fails:
👉 Before your shoot, open Pinterest and take a few photos of posing ideas with your actual camera—not your phone.
Then, when you’re mid-session and start to feel “dry,” scroll back to the beginning (or forward!) on your SD card to see those saved posing ideas.
It’s a quick visual spark that instantly refreshes your brain and helps you find new inspiration on the spot.
Every photographer goes through dry seasons. You’re not alone—and this little hack has saved me so many times.
Pin This for Later 📌
This post is packed with posing and prompting inspiration, so make sure to save it to your Pinterest photography board for your next session.
Whether you’re a Virginia Beach photographer, an educator teaching others how to direct with confidence, or simply someone who wants to elevate their client experience—remember:
Don’t tell your clients to act natural. Help them feel natural.