Say what you want, but everyone cares about how they look in a photo.
Whether you’re modeling or at an event; knowing how to quickly position your body for a photo makes taking pictures much easier and less uncomfortable in front a crowd of people.
Taking pictures
Coming up with photo shoot ideas is the first step.
You want to browse a few popular social media platforms to get inspired.
Save the images on your phone and use them as a reference before or during taking pictures.
It’s a great idea!
You don’t have to be a model to create a mood board.
This idea goes for a couples photo shoot, graduation photo shoots, or for someone looking to build their Instagram.
Burst Pictures of You Casually Posing
Smart phones have a handy camera ‘burst’ feature.
You can set your smart phone on this feature and with one click, you camera phone will take multiple pictures in a matter of seconds!
If you take multiple ‘burst’ images of you swiftly posing, you’re bound to get the right shot!
Don’t try to pose like a model until you’re comfortable. Just pose naturally until get to know your angles.
Just be you and naturally move.
Posing at a photo shoot
photo shoot poses can be intimidating, but that’s only because you’re not experienced.
Often, I preach about practicing modeling when you’re off duty. You don’t have to ONLY model when you book a job. Practice throughout the day or week.
For independent models
You want to be sure to get your money’s worth, so practice!
For signed models
When shooting for a brand, you want to make the best facial expressions and the best poses possible.
When shot with experience, directors are more reluctant to hire you again.
It’s also important to show clients that you have what it takes to sell their brand.
Practice quickly, yet swiftly moving your body, hands, and face to get the best photos within minutes.
The first thing I do is plan ahead
When I get a notice that I’m having a photo shoot, I create a collage of poses I want to portray.
This method is used most when photographers have a specific vision for a photo shoot.
Sending the model a mood board allows them to understand the ‘theme’ of the shoot and the emotion to portray.
Also, it helps if you have to bring a few clothing options to the photo shoot. You’ll have a guide on what to bring.
Instagram’s ‘folder’ feature allows for an easy way for anyone to archive images!
You can create a mood board within a photo editing software such as Canva or Photoshop.
If you’re not that tech savvy
I’d suggest you use the ‘screen-shot’ feature on your computer or tablet, for pictures you like and drop them in a folder
You can also google ‘Collage Maker’ and see what pops up!
Send the collage to your phone, and use it as a reference while you’re practicing or if you’re out taking candid images.
It’s Time To Practice!
Well, you can’t just stare at the poses and hope to memorize them! You have to get into motion and start emulating these poses.
Prop your smart phone on a tripod, or lean it up against something! Record your self modeling, or use a body mirror!
You need to see yourself in action
If your left arm is extended to the left, what position is your right arm and left leg in?
Symmetry when posing is ideal for great shots.
Not one part of your body needs to be lifeless!
That doesn’t ONLY apply to models, that goes for candid images too!
You don’t want your face to look happy, your left arm to appear broken, and your neck to have a crook in it.
A body mirror is the best option. It’s cheap and doesn’t require batteries. They’re also about 8 bucks at Walmart.
#InvestInOne
Don’t limit yourself to ‘safe’ poses. The most awkward feeling pose, looks the best.
You’d be surprised.
Stay Ready So You Won’t Have to Get Ready
For a photo shoot, practice two weeks in advance.
For an event, festival, or attraction site practice at least 3 days prior. Get inspired by your favorite influencers.
Find time in between your busy schedule to practice posing. Dancers do it all the time.
They’re constantly dancing everywhere they go!
When you’re in the bathroom getting ready, practice a few poses.
When you’re headed back to your room, strike a few poses in front of your body mirror.
Practicing constantly will advance your skills. You’ll be more than ready on the big day!
Plus, it allows you to quickly remember specific poses!
At a museum? Quickly take a picture.
It’s about to rain? Oh, let me hit about 5 memorized poses I know before the showers pick up.
The train is 1 minute away? Take a picture of me really quick.
During a photo shoot, you don’t want to appear unprepared.
Make something up and act like you know what you’re doing!
Better yet, follow my techniques and you WILL know what you’re doing.
Make sure to periodically practice new poses.
Make a collage, watch videos, save images from Instagram, and contact me for advice!
Practicing will always advance you and allow you to be ready, so you won’t have to get ready.