So, you’ve booked your portrait session—yay! 🎉 But now, the nerves are kicking in because you have no idea how to pose. You’re not a model, and the thought of standing in front of a camera feels, well… a little awkward. Sound familiar? You’re not alone!
The good news? Your photographer has you covered! My job is to guide you, help you feel comfortable, and make you look amazing. But if you want to take your photos to the next level and feel more confident in front of the camera, a little posing know-how can make all the difference.
I asked some of my model friends for their best posing secrets, and let me tell you—some of them are game-changers! So let’s dive in and get you prepped for a picture-perfect session.
Step 1: Practice Makes Perfect (and Less Awkward!)
📸 Mirror, Mirror on the Wall… – Spend a few minutes in front of a mirror to figure out which angles you love. Do a slight head tilt, shift your weight from one side to the other, and test out a soft smile versus a big one. See what feels most natural for you!
📸 Pose Like a Pro – Find inspiration photos before your session and try out similar poses. This isn’t about copying someone else’s look—it’s about getting a feel for body positioning so you’re more comfortable when the camera is on.
📸 Small Moves, Big Impact – Don’t make huge, drastic pose changes. Instead, make small adjustments—move your hands slightly, tilt your head, shift your shoulders. These tiny tweaks create a natural flow and give you more variety in your final images.
Step 2: Nail the Basics of Posing
✨ The Invisible String Trick – Imagine a string gently pulling the top of your head toward the sky. This keeps your posture upright and elegant (without looking stiff).
✨ Don’t Run Away from the Light! – Always angle yourself toward the best light source. Good lighting enhances your features, while poor lighting can create harsh shadows and make you look tired.
✨ Find Your Power Side – Most people have a side they prefer in photos. If you don’t know yours, take a few test shots or check out your mirror practice session!
✨ Give Your Hands a Task – Hands can be tricky! Instead of stiff, awkward fingers, think soft and relaxed. Lightly touch your face, rest a hand on your hip, or gently play with a piece of jewelry. Avoid hiding fingers or making them look stiff—think Barbie hands (soft, graceful, slightly curved fingers).
✨ Smile Naturally – A forced smile can feel awkward. Instead, think of a happy memory, chat with your photographer, or even fake a small laugh to get that natural glow.
Step 3: Move & Have Fun!
🎶 Play Music & Loosen Up – If your photographer allows it, bring some music! Your favorite tunes can help you relax and make the session feel more like a fun experience rather than a serious photoshoot.
💃 Add Some Movement – Instead of stiff, posed shots, incorporate small, natural movements:
– Twirl slightly.
– Look over your shoulder, then turn your head back toward the camera.
– Run your fingers gently through your hair.
– Shift your weight from one foot to another.
These tiny movements make for effortless, natural-looking portraits.
Step 4: Secret Model Tips for That Extra Edge
💄 Check the Little Details – Before your session, do a quick checklist: No hair ties on your wrist? Hands clean? No chapped lips? (Pro tip: Avoid chewing gum right before your session—it can dry out your lips!)
🫧 Breathe & Relax – Holding your breath or tensing up will show in your photos. Take a deep breath, exhale, and let your shoulders drop naturally.
👄 The Lip Trick – If you’re going for a serious look, let out a small puff of air just before the photo. This relaxes your lips so they don’t look stiff or overly tense.
🦶 Point Your Toes! – Whether sitting or standing, lengthen your posture by pointing your toes and stretching out your body. Even in relaxed poses, keeping everything extended creates a graceful look.
Step 5: Trust Your Photographer & Enjoy the Experience!
The most important thing? Have fun! A great portrait session isn’t just about looking good—it’s about capturing your personality and confidence. Your photographer is there to help guide you, adjust your poses, and make sure you look amazing.
If you feel awkward at first, don’t stress—it’s completely normal! The more you relax and enjoy the process, the better your photos will turn out.
So take a deep breath, strike a pose, and get ready to shine in front of the camera! ✨📷
