Public Speaking

Body language is a significant part of public speaking but you don’t have to be speaking to roll out your best body language.  Take advantage of the number of photos that get taken over the holidays to practise these tips.

1. Get grounded

Plant your feet so you’re stable.  If your feet are wobbly, your brain is busy wondering how to stay upright so you’ll look distracted or stiff in photos.

2. Breathe out

Exhale and let your shoulders and face relax.  You’ll look way more confident than you do holding your breath.

3. Angle a little

If you’re not fond of photos, standing face on to the camera can feel exposing.  Turn your body just slightly.  (If you want to, you can go full model pose, looking backwards over your shoulder, but see Tip 1 to make sure you’re balanced! 😊)

4. Be definite about your hands

One of the things people think about most when they’re speaking in public is what to do with their hands.  It’s similar in photos.  Decide whether you’ll put them in your pockets, around someone’s shoulders (remember, consent!), holding a glass or leaning on something.  Like getting stable, knowing what to do with your hands gives you confidence.

5. Smile with your eyes, not just your mouth

Real smiles reach your eyes.  You might not be thrilled at the sight of a camera so think of something that makes you think warm thoughts.  That will be reflected in your face.

If you’re comfortable in photos, you’ll look more confident.  Practise these tips over the holidays so they’re natural in your public speaking.  (Probably not the model pose every time though, right? 😉)