Sessions with new clients get my stomach in knots and my nerves bubbling over. I really think I will deal with this for my entire photography career! To battle my internal anxiety, I have a few products that I recommend to ease the stress.
1. Manduka’s eKO Lite Mat
This yoga mat has been heavenly! Before I purchased the eKO Lite, I was using an inexpensive mat from the grocery store and I had no idea what I was missing! This mat is incredibly supportive and actually stays put! Better yet, it’s biodegradable and made of natural tree rubber. After a quick sun salutation I’m calmed down for my session! $64
2. Posing App
The core of my nervousness is my need for variety and strong posing with family sessions. Even though I know how to achieve this I’m always concerned I’m going to go blank at the wrong moment! To remedy this I loaded up a posing app on my iPhone. I know it is available for moments when I completely blank out and can’t come up with my next idea on the fly. The app shares over 300 poses for just about any situation. $2.99
3. Rescue Relief Spray by Bach
Before one of my big presentations at Click Away last September, I was super nervous. A friend let me try a few sprays of Rescue Relief and it calmed my nerves quickly. Once I got home, I purchased it and keep it in my purse for moments when anxiety creeps in! $20.55
4. Photographers Charm Necklace
What if the kids don’t cooperate? This is always a concern, but this sweet little charm necklace has the perfect little whistle to grab their attention. I save it until I really need it! $29
5. Photographer’s Field Guide Breakout Session
When I have a location and plan in place I’m able to calm down and focus on the clients! Lauren Sanderson’s Photographer’s Field Guide is a fabulous read to help you choose your locations and learn how to use them to their fullest potential! $30
6. Zoya Polish in ‘Blu’
Blue tones are both calming and peaceful. Just a glance down at my nails can be the reminder I need to take a deep breath and feel more zen. $9
7. DIY Bath Bombs
I made a few batches of these bath bombs for my sister’s bridal shower and then continued to make more for myself afterwards! This is my own recipe adapted from a few recipes I found online. Throw one or two of these bath bombs into the bathtub before or after a photography session to relax the stress away.
Ingredients for a 24 cup mini muffin tin:
- 2 cups Baking Soda
- 1 cup Citric Acid
- 5-10 sprays of Witch Hazel
- 3-5 drops of your favorite calming essential oils
- Optional: Soap colorant, lavender buds, rose buds
Instructions:
Mix baking soda and citric acid in a large mixing bowl. Add essential oils and colorant, if using. Spray a few sprays of witch hazel and mix thoroughly with your hands. Depending on the humidity where you live the amount of witch hazel sprays needed will differ. Continue spraying and mix with your hands until it begins to clump together slightly. If you are using lavender buds or rose buds sprinkle them into the bottom of the muffin tin first. Spread the mix in the muffin tin and press down compactly. Allow to dry for about 10 minutes. They should pop out quite easily when ready! Enjoy!
Thanks for the mention Melissa! I have a session tomorrow that I’m nervous about so I’m excited to try some of these other ideas!!
Your welcome, Lauren! I loved your breakout session. Do you think the nerves will EVER go away?!!!
Gah! I type too fast 😉 YOU’RE*