Many models starting out in this line of work will feel uncomfortable looking into the camera. I think modeling is even more of a challenge because you need to pose in various positions for strangers. What I recommend doing is to first look at the camera with a serious and natural face. You don’t have to smile at first, but what you can do is turn your head from left to right.
Crossing the legs is also a very natural pose. Sometimes when I’m shooting models I start a conversation on a light topic. I make them sit down and cross their legs. I ask them to introduce themselves and talk about their favorite dessert or animal. It is important to feel comfortable with the topics you are talking about.
As a personal preference, I like to start with the model’s fingers and nails because that’s what a lot of models take pride in. Show your nails to the camera. If a model has clean and well-groomed fingernails and toenails, she will feel more confident showing them off, especially if they are decorated in pastels, hot pinks, and various patterns. I think it’s easier to show your hands in front of a camera than your body. Start a conversation about her nails. If you have a male model, maybe you can talk about her workout routine.
Humor is also a plus since it always helps the subject to relax and be more natural. Beauty is natural; having fun is natural; smiling is natural and being happy with what you are doing is totally natural. She begins to open up and find the charm inside of her. You as a photographer must encourage them and reaffirm their beauty and that everything they are doing is good and that no pose is the wrong pose. A good model needs to have a good cameraman who can cheer up the aspiring model.
Affirmations are another great way to feel confident in front of the camera. He repeats positive words like beautiful, sunshine, bubbles, and butterflies. You can say these things to the camera. The more you do this, the less shy you will become. Hopefully, you’ll soon realize that posing in front of a camera isn’t such a bad thing. Modeling less rehearsed and choreographed is what your goal should be.
In modeling, the challenge here is trying to get over your fear of being lewd by a cameraman who wants to bring out your sexy side. The photographer will do everything possible to get the best image of you on film because it is his reputation that is at stake, so he will help you relax by helping you discover the true essence of your beauty. As you gain more experience working in front of the camera, you will become less shy and more confident, so good luck.