Barbie, branding & feeling awkward: How acting can help you show up confidently in photos

I accidentally learned something about confidence at my 40th birthday party. The theme was Never Grow Up, and I went full cowgirl Barbie. Pink two-piece, boots, the lot.

And as I looked around the room, everyone was having way more fun than usual.

Not because anyone needed permission to have fun, but because dressing up helped us get out of our heads and be more present. 

Which is basically the same trick I use when someone tells me;

“I’m awkward in photos.”

“I hate being in front of the camera.”

“Please don’t make me do that weird hands thing.”

Here’s the reframe I teach, and use myself. 

Act, (But like… in a not-cringe way.) Not pretend to be someone else, more like step into your Personal Brand Avatar.

The version of you that’s, grounded, clear, warm, or bold, or calm, or CEO-energy, whatever you want to lead with. The one you actually want people to meet when they land on your website, LinkedIn, about page

And yes, you can bring nerves along for the ride, just don’t let them drive the car. Here’s three practical ways to make it easier.

1) Choose your avatar before you arrive
What would they wear? How would they stand? What energy would they bring?

2) Compartmentalise the awkward
You don’t need to erase it. Just  pop it in the back seat for 30 minutes.

3) Stop trying to “know how to pose”
That part is literally the photographer’s job (hi 🙋🏻‍♀️). I’ll put you in good light, give you simple direction, and keep it feeling like you’re hanging out with a friend, not auditioning for America’s Next Top Model.

Final thought, you don’t have to feel 100% confident to look confident. You just have to give that version of you permission to show up first.

And if it helps, throw on something a bit extra, Barbie knew what she was doing.

If you’re overdue for updated portraits, personal branding photos, and you’re camera-shy, we’ve got you.