Strike a Pose: The Do’s and Don’ts of Posing

Posing

 

 

 

 

 

 

Everyone with a camera phone does it at least once a week: we take photos of ourselves. Many of us have come to rely on that front-facing camera and know what angle we look just right. We know how far to extend our arms, how to slouch our shoulders or pull them back and we all know what filter looks right. I hate to be the barer of bad news, but it doesn’t translate in portrait photography or executive portraits.

Most of the poses you’re using for Instagram or Facebook selfies don’t work on a shoot. But here are a few tips on how to strike the perfect pose in your headshot.

DO:

Relax
Take it easy, it’s just a photo. Breathe, listen to direction and don’t get too stiff!

Keep your chin down
I cannot stress this enough. Keep. Your. Chin. Down. Not only will it actually slim your face, it will generally hide double-chins. Just make eye contact with the camera and make sure you’re facing the photographer unless otherwise directed.

Take suggestion
More times than not, photos come out odd for two reasons. The first is the lighting was off in some way. The second reason is the subject decided to go overboard with expressions or movement. Don’t get me wrong, it’s important to feel free in front of the camera, but always be open to suggestion. I promise, I’ll make sure your photos turn out flawless.

 

DON’T:

Look up
Keep. Your. Chin. Down. Please!

Do the “thin lean”
This is what’s commonly referred to as the “college girl pose” or “my little tea pot.” You know it – hand on hip, turned to the side, knees slightly bent, head tilted. This doesn’t go well on a DSLR, despite looking suitable on your Instagram feed in sparing doses. Please stand up straight and look at the photographer, you will be pleasantly surprised.

Freak out!
Again, relax. We’re just taking photos. I’ll make sure you’re retouched in post-production. Just keep calm and smile.

2 Responses to “Strike a Pose: The Do’s and Don’ts of Posing”

  1. Deborah Reeves

    Wanting a professional picture for my career. I am a hair stylist. Want a headshot and a few fun ones. Thank you.

    Reply
  2. Megan

    Just looking for some advice on how to better pose in photos.
    Although I’m working on the facial expressions and am no longer trying too hard, I feel so disconnected from my body and to the camera when I pose. What I perceive looks good, like a good pose, ends up looking really bad on camera and I end up feeling clueless. If this is something you could help with, please let me know as would greatly appreciate it.

    Reply

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