EVERYONE IS UNPHOTOGENIC… with bad Portrait Photography | Sydney
- Lila Marvell
- Nov 18
- 3 min read
Some people just aren’t photogenic. There, I said it...
And if you’ve ever seen a photo of yourself and thought “Ugh, is that really me?”—you’ve probably believed it too.
But here’s the truth: Everyone can look unphotogenic… with the wrong photographer.
Ever accidentally opened your front camera and caught a surprise triple chin, weird lighting, and the panic of seeing yourself from the worst possible angle? That’s not what you look like. That’s just what happens when no one’s guiding the shot.
Being photogenic has nothing to do with your face and everything to do with who’s behind the lens.
You’re Not Unphotogenic. You’ve Just Been Photographed Badly.
The biggest thing I hear from clients, especially when I’m shooting headshots or portrait photography in Sydney, is this:
“I hate photos of myself.” “I’m not photogenic.” “I’ve never had a good photo taken of me.”
Let me be clear: it’s not you. It’s the person taking the photo.
You are not unphotogenic. You’ve just been photographed without care, without direction, and without someone behind the lens who knows how to bring out your best side.
What Makes a Portrait Actually Good?
Here’s what makes a portrait work, what actually makes you look like you at your best.
Lighting that flatters, not flattens
Angles that are tailored to your features
Guidance so you’re not left feeling awkward
A relaxed space where you feel seen, not judged
With my portrait photography work in Sydney, I don’t expect you to know your angles or how to pose. That’s my job. I take the time to direct you gently, to read your comfort levels, and to create an image that feels natural but elevated.
Whether you're booking professional headshots, creative personal portraits, or team photos, the process should feel empowering, not intimidating.
Photogenic Isn’t a Trait. It’s a Process.
Being photogenic isn’t something you’re born with. It’s not a personality trait. It’s not exclusive to influencers or models.
It’s the result of being supported by a photographer who knows how to light, pose, and guide you properly and who actually cares about getting it right.
What to Expect in a Portrait Photography Session
Never had a proper portrait taken? Here’s what it’s like to work with me:
We’ll start with a quick chat about your goals, whether it's a new LinkedIn headshot, creative portraits, or content for your brand.
I’ll guide you through wardrobe choices, styling, and location or studio setup ( I can even bring my studio to you!).
During the shoot, I direct you every step of the way, no awkward silences or guessing how to pose.
I shoot live so you get to see a preview during the session so you know we’re on the right track.
Final edited images are delivered to you, ready to use with confidence.
You don’t need to be “good in front of the camera.” That’s what I’m here for.
The Right Photographer Makes You Look Like You. Just On Your Best Day
If you’ve ever left a shoot feeling more self-conscious than when you arrived, you haven’t been photographed by the right person.
When I work with clients, whether it’s for business portraits, or creative headshots, I bring both technical expertise and human care to every session.
Because yes, we’ll find your best angles. Yes, we’ll work with lighting that flatters you. And no, you won’t walk away with a gallery full of awkward shots you never want to post.
Final Thought
Everyone can look unphotogenic. But no one is unphotogenic.
With the right photographer, a thoughtful setup, and real guidance, you’ll not only love your portraits, you’ll finally feel seen the way you want to be.
Let’s change the way you see yourself with portrait photography in Sydney that’s made for real people.
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