Because most people do not have professional portraits taken very often, the photo experience can create some anxiety and tension. The tips below are intended to help you feel more relaxed and confident. A good professional photographer will coach you through posing tips, but if you have some basic knowledge before the photo shoot, you increase the likelihood of capturing even better images and your can feel a little more relaxed.
1. Keep your back straight. There is nothing quite like a photograph of a sloucher. The best photo can be undermined by a hunched-over look. Visualize someone placing a finger in the small of your back and gently pushing it in. By straighten up and throwing your shoulders back, you project a strong, positive image. It is that simple.
2. Position your body and face to be slightly away from the camera, NOT straight on. A common, very flattering pose is to turn your body 45 degrees from the camera and also turn your head in the opposite direction from your body (towards the main light source). Some prefer a 7/8 or 2/3 rotation of the head from the camera. In many cases, your eyes still look toward the camera, but the slight angle of your face creates more dimension and can also serve to slim the face (when lit properly).
3. Lean slightly towards the camera. When you lean towards someone in a conversation, it reflects your interest; it shows you are engaged. The same is true for portrait photography.
For more information, visit my Facebook page and I also post photo tips on Twitter (@mycityphotos)
1. Keep your back straight. There is nothing quite like a photograph of a sloucher. The best photo can be undermined by a hunched-over look. Visualize someone placing a finger in the small of your back and gently pushing it in. By straighten up and throwing your shoulders back, you project a strong, positive image. It is that simple.
2. Position your body and face to be slightly away from the camera, NOT straight on. A common, very flattering pose is to turn your body 45 degrees from the camera and also turn your head in the opposite direction from your body (towards the main light source). Some prefer a 7/8 or 2/3 rotation of the head from the camera. In many cases, your eyes still look toward the camera, but the slight angle of your face creates more dimension and can also serve to slim the face (when lit properly).
3. Lean slightly towards the camera. When you lean towards someone in a conversation, it reflects your interest; it shows you are engaged. The same is true for portrait photography.
For more information, visit my Facebook page and I also post photo tips on Twitter (@mycityphotos)
