Portrait Photography Posing
Everyone takes a posed photo at one time or another. You may look back on it after it's been snapped and think that you could have taken a much better photo. You may look stiff, not like your smile, or just think something looks off. The truth is, most people need a little training on how to pose for photos in order to look their best. It's just not natural for everyone.
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Instructions
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Go through photos of yourself. Pick out ones where you like the way you look and ones where you don't like how you look. Study both sets of photos to determine why you like or don't like your appearance. It may be the way you smile, the side of your face, the tilt of your head, or even your hairstyle. Take note of all the things you like and see if there's a pattern.
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Stand in front of a mirror. Try to duplicate some of your favorite looks. Then have a friend take photos of you with a digital camera trying to duplicate your favorite looks. Examine the photos afterwards and see how close you came. Notice the things you did on purpose, and determine whether you like the changes or not. If you want to practice again, then do another shooting session.
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Get a good night of sleep the night before a posed shoot such as school photos, your family holiday card or other planned photography sessions. Get up and exercise to get the blood flowing and energize your body. This will loosen your tension and help you relax.
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Think back to those poses, gestures and looks you practiced. Assume a comfortable position, but allow yourself the privilege of being able to move around. Sink into your poses, and continue to slowly move or hold for a moment. Then adjust slightly so you are still alive and active.
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Think happy thoughts. Think back on things that make you laugh, this will ensure that you have a real smile and not a forced, corny smile you will look back on later and regret. Just continue to breath, listen to the photographer, and relax. Remember, it's supposed to be fun, not torture.
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Tips & Warnings
Remain relaxed.
Maintain your posture the entire time.
Don't strain holding a pose.
