Why Telling People to “Smile” on Camera Needs to Stop Being The Norm…
We’ve all heard it… That automatic command right before the shutter clicks:
“Smile for the camera!”
It’s well-meaning, sure, but it’s time we rethink it.
Not everyone is a smiler, and that’s completely okay!
Even people who smile all the time in real life might not want to show up that way in photos. How we express ourselves on camera is personal, and deserves respect.
Not Everyone Wants to Smile (and That’s Fine)
As a portrait and brand photographer, I’ve met people across the spectrum: some who light up the second a camera appears, and others who feel instantly tense.
For my non-smilers, I often suggest a gentle “baby smile” which is just a small lift at the corners of the mouth.
It keeps the expression soft and open without forcing it.
Because forced smiles? They never look right!
Authenticity always looks better than perfection.
Why Forced Smiles Don’t Work
A forced grin rarely tells the truth.
You can see it instantly: The eyes don’t match, the energy feels off, and the person looks uncomfortable.
Expecting everyone to beam on command is unrealistic and, frankly, unnecessary. Instead, the focus should be on making people feel good.
When someone relaxes, laughs naturally, or simply connects with the moment, that’s when real emotion shows up, and that’s what creates powerful, timeless portraits.
Let’s Retire “Say Cheese” (Especially With Kids)
If there’s one photography phrase I wish we could retire forever, it’s “say cheese.”
Especially when it comes to photographing children.
It doesn’t work and it creates stiff, unnatural smiles and takes away the joy of the moment.
Kids respond to connection, play, and presence, not performance.
There are so many better ways to bring out a child’s natural happiness: storytelling, games, gentle conversation, even a bit of silliness.
Those moments are what create beautiful, genuine photos.
Let’s Normalise Real Expressions
Whether you’re behind the camera or in front of it, it’s time to let go of the idea that smiling equals confidence or approachability.
Real expressions: serious, soft, curious, calm, are just as powerful.
So if you’re not a smiler, don’t worry. You’re perfect as you are.
And if you’re someone who tends to say “smile for the camera!” maybe pause next time.
It’s often more pressure than encouragement.
Let’s normalise letting people show up as themselves, smiling or not. Because authenticity always looks better than forced perfection!
Ready to capture your authentic self, with no forced smiles, no awkward posing?
Let’s create images that feel like you! Contact me to start planning your shoot today!
Click on the Get In Touch button and send me your message.
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