Forced smiles usually happen when people feel awkward in front of the camera. The main fix is to help them relax or forget the camera is there.

For candid-style portraits, shoot from farther away with a longer lens so you’re less intrusive. Spending more time with the camera out can also help—people often stop “performing” once they get used to it.

For posed portraits, build rapport and give calm direction. A little conversation or humor can make people more comfortable, while you still guide the session confidently.

A useful trick is to let them give you the smile they think you want, then keep shooting and wait for the expression to relax. Often the more natural face appears right after the first “camera smile.”

You can also prompt a genuine reaction: ask them to do something playful, like a jump if appropriate. Even if that frame isn’t the keeper, the moment after often includes real laughter and relaxed expressions.

In short: reduce self-consciousness, keep shooting past the obvious smile, and create situations where natural expression can happen.