How to Pose for Portrait Photography

Portrait photos don't have to be stern and boring.

The thought of sitting down in front of a camera for a portrait may make some people cringe. It doesn’t have to. You can pose for portrait photography like a pro mainly by staying relaxed. If you remember to breathe, sit upright and follow a few simple tips, you can pose for portrait photography sans nervousness and a goofy grin. Here’s how.

Instructions

1. Find a background that you want in the portrait. Most studios will have an array from which to choose. If you are picking your own, go with something neutral that does not detract from the subject, but is pleasant. Don’t pose in front of a window and steer clear of the blank white wall. Nature makes for a good background, as long as you don’t end up with a tree branch sticking out of your head or the blaring sun directly behind you.

2. Sit. Have a seat on a backless stool or other item that will not detract from the subject, which is yourself. You can pose in a giant, leather chair or other comfortable piece of furniture, but sit perched on the front and not engulfed in cushions. You can also have a seat on a tree trunk, large rock in front of the sea or other natural item as long as it allows you to sit upright.

3. Adjust your body. Straighten your back, roll your shoulders back and place your hands neatly on your lap. Your neck should also be straight and your head tilted slightly upward and slightly to one side of the lens.

4. Pick a gaze. A popular one is to look into the distance. Your look can be straight ahead from your tilted head or off the side a bit. You can also look at the camera but do not stare directly into the lens. You also don’t want to look like you are staring off into space. Pick a spot on which to concentrate and then concentrate on it.

5. Smile. Or don’t. Forced smiles are going to look goofy but real ones are priceless. If you can think of something amusing that makes you laugh, go for it. Otherwise a natural, relaxed face also works well. Just make sure you do not frown or scowl.

6. Breathe. As the photographer is snapping numerous photos, don’t forget to breathe. You can still stay erect, upright and slightly smiling while you inhale and exhale. You do not have to hold your breath to get a good shot.

Tips & Warnings

• The more comfortable you are with the photographer, the more natural and relaxed the photo is going to be.

• Make sure your hair is not sticking up in weird places or covering your face and you don't have smeared makeup or spinach stuck in your teeth.

• Feel free to add props or pets to the portrait for a little flair. You can also make silly faces if you want your portrait to reflect a fun and whimsical nature.

• Don't make funny face in a serious portrait, like the infamous family portrait we all have to pose for.

• Don’t slouch.

• Don’t put your hands around your face or press them together like you are praying and lay them on your shoulder. Nobody is sure where the origin of that common pose came from, but folks do know it looks tacky.