Photographs of Lena Hayden. Graphic design by Gwynith Hayden using Canva.
Picture Perfect: 7 Posing Tips for Portraiture
Whether you’re the one taking the picture or the one posing, finding the right pose is always challenging.
People very seldom feel natural in front of a camera, but looking natural is one of the most important elements of posing for a portrait.
So, whether you’re planning your first photo shoot or preparing for your senior portrait, here are seven key tips to get you started!
- Depth in a portrait.
Gwynith Hayden
Position your model on a diagonal facing you to provide depth in your portrait.Depth is an important aspect of photography, even in portraiture.
Ask your model to stand on a diagonal facing you, so one shoulder is closer to you than the other.
This technique helps to provide depth in your portrait and keeps your model from looking two-dimensional.
- Hold something.
Gwynith Hayden
Keep your model’s hands naturally positioned by giving her something to hold.People often have trouble finding something to do with their hands in a portrait.
Give your model something to do with his or her hands, such as holding an object or playing with leaves.
- Natural expression.
Gwynith Hayden
Ask your model to turn away from you and then glance back as you take the photo. This helps the model to keep a natural expression.It is extremely challenging to keep a relaxed, pleasant expression, especially over the course of a long photo shoot!
Ask your model to turn away from you, then look back.
Take the picture as soon as he or she turns back because the expression will be more natural. - Staring down the lens.
Gwynith Hayden
If your model feels uncomfortable, ask him/her to look away from the camera slightly.If your model has trouble feeling comfortable in front of a camera, ask him or her to look away from the lens slightly while you take the photograph.
Taking your model’s attention off the camera can help him or her to feel more relaxed. - Let’s get moving.
Gwynith Hayden
Having your model perform a simple action can help him/her find a natural pose.Sometimes, the best way to find a natural pose is to have your model move around.
Ask him or her to twirl, run, or even perform a simple motion like moving a hand through his or her hair. - Do something fun!
Gwynith Hayden
Bring an element into your portrait that your model enjoys to help him/her relax.Engage your model by having him or her do something he or she enjoys.
My sister loves playing with shawls, so bringing that element into her portrait helped her to relax and enjoy it. - Conversation.
Gwynith Hayden
Talk to your model and share your photos with him/her throughout the shoot.Your model won’t be comfortable if you aren’t.
Talk to your model throughout the shoot to make him or her feel more comfortable.
A model will always appreciate it if you pause to show him or her your photographs too!