“Just act natural.” It's easier said than done when you are in front of a camera and trying to look your best while feeling a little awkward and maybe even a little insecure. Even the top models need some help to look and act more natural in front of the camera. There's no need to be nervous going into your shoot, with a little bit of practice in front of a mirror and these tips you'll be feeling confident and relaxed from the very first click!

• Have Something to Hold

Hands can be the most difficult things to figure out what to do with. For some reason, it always feels awkward just having them at your side so bring something to hold onto. Flowers, a book, musical instrument anything that is significant to you can be the perfect addition to your shoot.

• Natural Smile

You don't want to get caught with the deer in headlights look and faking a smile is often not very flattering. One of the best ways to show your natural smile is to press your tongue to the roof of your mouth. The corners of your mouth will naturally draw up and it won't look forced at all.

• Wear Something Comfortable

If you aren't comfortable in what you're wearing this will show through in your images no matter how much you try to fake it. You want to wear something you feel comfortable in not only so you can move around easily but so that you will be more confident in front of the camera as well.

• Posing

While your photographer will help direct you in how you should sit or stand it's a good idea to know a few simple tricks when it comes to posing. First, just about everyone has an asymmetrical face and most often one of the eyes is slightly larger than the other. You want to turn the side of your face with the slightly larger eye towards the camera. This will help balance out the face. Second, stick your neck out slightly. This helps elongate the neck and will eliminate the dreaded “double chin” that many people have. Third, ladies, cross your feet at the ankles. This elongates the body and adds a little depth to your images.

• Think Happy Thoughts

Before you go into your shoot you want to have an image, joke or happy story in the back of your mind. During the shoot, you'll want to recall on these thoughts to help bring out a genuine smile. If you start to get nervous just think your happy thought and you will instantly begin to relax and feel more comfortable.