How I Direct Non-Actors to Feel Natural on Camera
Why Confidence Matters More Than Acting Skills
Most of the people I work with aren’t actors — they’re business owners, musicians, creatives, or people simply looking to capture something meaningful for their brand. Being in front of a camera can feel intimidating, especially if you’re not used to it. Stiff poses, nervous laughs, or constantly worrying about how you look can take away from the moment. My role as a director is to take that pressure off. It’s not about forcing someone to “perform” — it’s about helping them feel comfortable enough to just be themselves.
Using Prompts Instead of Poses
One of the first things I learned is that telling someone to “pose” often makes them more nervous. Instead, I use prompts and movement. For example, I might ask someone to walk towards me slowly, adjust their jacket, or look off to the side as if they’ve just noticed something interesting. These simple actions give people something to do, which helps them relax and forget about holding a stiff smile. The natural expressions that come in between those moments are often the strongest shots of the day.
The Power of Conversation
Conversation is another tool I rely on during shoots. Talking to someone while I’m shooting helps them shift focus away from the lens. I’ll ask questions about their work, their favorite music, or even just how their day has been. When people start telling stories or laughing at their own jokes, they stop worrying about how they look. That’s when I see the most authentic expressions — a quick smile, a thoughtful pause, or the spark in their eyes when they’re talking about something they love.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
The environment also makes a big difference. I try to keep shoots relaxed, playing music in the background or giving people time to warm up before we start. Sometimes the first few shots are just practice — a way to get used to the process without any pressure. Once clients realize they don’t have to “get it perfect,” they start to settle in. It’s about creating a space where mistakes are part of the process and where they feel supported rather than judged.
Forgetting the Camera
The best shots usually happen when someone forgets the camera is even there. That’s the moment where their personality comes through. I’ve learned not to rush towards that point, but to guide people there naturally. Some need more direction, others just need reassurance. Every client is different, but the goal is always the same: to capture them at their most genuine.
A Lesson for Anyone Behind the Lens
Working with non-actors has taught me that directing is less about technical perfection and more about human connection. You don’t need a professional model to create powerful images — you just need someone willing to be themselves, and a director who knows how to help them get there. If you’re a photographer or filmmaker, focus less on rigid posing and more on prompts, movement, and conversation. The images you capture will feel more alive, and your clients will walk away feeling confident instead of self-conscious.
Final Thoughts
Helping non-actors feel natural on camera is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. Every client comes in with a little bit of nervousness, but by the end of the shoot, they usually leave saying, “That was easier than I thought.” For me, that’s the real success not just creating great photos or videos, but helping people see themselves in a new, confident light.