How to Pose for Stunning Photos!

Christina-Houser-Photography-High-School-Portfolio

If you are one of the millions of women out there that are apprehensive about your appearance in photographs, I assure you that YOU ARE NOT ALONE! 

If you run and hide when your Aunt Jinny pulls out her camera and smile awkwardly with the mindset of the road runner, I HEAR YOU! 

“I look heavy.”

“Ugh…all I see is wrinkles”

“Everything looks great in the image, except me”

Well, I have some great news.  The most photogenic people are not always the most beautiful.  It is all about confidence.  These tips will curb your fears, and leave you smiling after the picture taking is over.

 

1. TILTING YOUR HEAD

Most people have asymmetrical features. One ear may be lower or perhaps one eye appears smaller when you smile (like my daughter. ) To minimize this, simply turn 1/3 of your face away from the camera.

This angle also has a slimming effect, as it draws the eye up and down (forehead to chin), not left to right (ear to ear). Angle your face slightly away from the camera, so that shadows are created along the cheekbones and the nose. Slightly tilt your chin down. But push your chin down too much and you’ll get three chins.

Even if you weigh 100 lbs. On the contrast, having a high chin looks unnatural and positions the camera to peek up your nose. Ugh. Who wants that?!? Finally, project your chin out an inch or so more than you normally would. You may feel a bit awkward, but I promise you, it looks better.

 

2. S-CURVE

Women, push your hips to one side to create an S curve with your body. Click here to see what I’m talking about: https://www.designbolts.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Best-Photo-Poses-for-women.jpg 

Also, push your Hips AWAY from the camera. The closest body part to the camera will look the largest, so go ahead and push your chest out 😉

 

3. LENS AT EYE LEVEL

Make sure the lens is at eye level or higher. If the lens is below your eye level, most likely you will look like you have an extra chin. If you’re taller than the photographer, sit in a chair and look up toward the camera.  Or ask your photographer to bring along a step ladder.

There is one time that I break the eye level rule and that is when someone is requesting a power or hero pose. I will then shoot slightly below eye level looking up.

 

4. LEAN AND RELAX THOSE HANDS

Is there a wall or doorway nearby? Lean on it. Or Try interacting with your husband, child or puppy.  Never, ever keep your hands to your side. It looks stiff.  Hold hands with your partner or intertwine your arms with them. Hold a cup of coffee. 

You can even clasp your hands together in front of you. Maybe put your thumbs in your jeans front pockets. Also try one hand resting on the top of your head. This will help elongate your stomach. Just do something to help relax your entire body.

 

5. LOOK PAST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

I often ask my clients to look past me… to look at something directly behind me and not directly into the camera. It gives you a less “deer in the headlights” appearance. And more of that sexy model look you see gracing the cover of every fashion magazine on the grocery store stands.

Have specific questions about how to pose?
Feel free to hit me up on my Facebook page here and leave a question!