Every year, one of my intentions is to make sure I get more photos of my family and friends, and to make sure I am in them, too. It never lasts though, in part because I always feel self-conscious in front of the camera. And I know I’m not the only one. I asked Jo Bishop, a local professional photographer, if she had any tips for helping people feel calmer in front of the camera, and also how she keeps her cool as the one behind it!

Jo, you've done shoots with me and know that I can feel awkward in front of the camera, but you help me look natural and calm. What advice would you give to someone having a professional shoot done, to help them feel more at ease and get the best shots?

“I always offer pre-shoot consultations with my clients so they get to know me a little. I totally appreciate how daunting being in front of a camera can be, coupled with the fact I am a total stranger: it’s a big ask, of even the most extrovert, to come across natural and relaxed.

Chat with your photographer: tell them your concerns, nerves and about the parts of you that you would like them to focus less on. We all have them! I like to chat as we’re shooting too, not about the shoot but just normal day to day conversation. I find it relaxes the client but I’m also a big people person.

I like to give pointers on what colours to wear, so that when they view their images it shows them off perfectly.

The odd sneak peek on the back of the camera can help too, so they know it’s going in the right direction and if by chance it isn’t, it can be rectified there and then.

You've produced some incredible new-born and family shoots. How do you keep your calm if a baby is crying or the shoot doesn't seem to go to plan? 

I go into every new born or baby shoot with the same expectation – that the baby will sob throughout and refuse every single pose! Anything up from that is a bonus! It’s my job to make beautiful images happen regardless. I always explain to new parents that it’s completely normal if they are a bit upset.

A new born session is in the first 4 weeks after birth and they are brought into a lovely cosy warm studio, but – it’s bright and they are moved around a little from prop to prop. As much as we want those beautiful images to look back on and remember, the baby just wants mummy/daddy cuddles! They don’t care about our agenda! If baby is unsettled I pass them back to parents. I have my white noise in the background set to soothe them, the temperature is perfect for baby and, if the parents like it, I have a little spa music playing. I only take one new born shoot per day, so there is no rush. We have as many breaks as needed, feed, fresh air and if baby really dislikes props and poses, I incorporate Mum and Dad in the shots holding baby instead.

Most parents are anxious about getting it "right" and feel apologetic if their baby lacks cooperation – all I will say is, that they are in the majority, most babies are the same and I’m totally used to it. I love my job, crying baby or not.!

I imagine doing wedding shoots must come with a lot of pressure. How do you keep yourself (and the couple) calm?

Alcohol! Just kidding, but a cheeky prosecco can assist if that’s your thing! It really does come down to communication. I start with a consultation: even before they put a deposit down, they can take up an engagement shoot so they get to know my style and I get to know how they are in front of the camera together. It’s a great way to break the ice before the big day and gets them excited for their wedding images when they see the quality of the engagement session!

I am totally led by the couple. If  they don’t want to be posed, I will stick to candid shots. I always make them aware that even if posing is on the agenda, it is very relaxed and not in the slightest bit cheesy! No popping from behind trees with me!

And finally, you talk on your Facebook page about the importance of taking photos and being in photos. Why do you think that is important for our wellbeing?

On a personal level, I hate being in front of the camera, so I know how many feel about it. But I know the importance of pushing through that.

Photographs evoke memories. They can transport you to a different place and time and you can remember smells or feelings from that precise moment. They are everything and, not wanting to be morbid, but photographs (and memories) are all that will be left of us.

Jo Bishop is a Northwest based photographer, who lives in Bolton with her young daughter, husband and 2 dogs.

Jo covers all the major milestones in life: from pregnancy, birth, new-born stage, engagement, wedding, family, pets, birthdays and more! Bespoke packages in business branding are available. Jo works from her purpose built summerhouse studio, although always offers the option for a shoot in the comfort of your own home, giving a more personal and lifestyle feel to your images.

You can see examples of Jo’s work on her website, Facebook page and Instagram feed.