Model Posing Tips from a Professional Photographer

Whether you are searching for a career in fashionfrom the lens. Let your hands fall naturally into
modeling or glamour modeling, it is very important forposition whenever possible. Remember, you want to
you to realize that there is more to becoming abe yourself - on purpose.
model than just standing there looking beautiful.Now that you have learned what to do, consider
One very important factor in becoming a good modelthese things you should try to avoid while posing.
is posing, and in order for you to learn the differentThings to Avoid when Posing for a Photographer
poses needed for the type of modeling career youMisplaced Body Language
are seeking it will take practice, practice, practice.Body language and expressions come naturally but
Make Your Posing Look Naturalthe language you are projecting might not be what
When preparing for your photo shoot, there areyour photographer wants in a particular pose. You
numerous steps you can take to ensure you areneed to conciously focus on ways to prevent these
comfortable while posing and your photos will lookhabits while posing.
more natural.Don't hold your breath during a pose. Stay relaxed
Get Posing Ideasand your photos will look as if you just happened to
Before you head to your photo shoot, pick at leastbe sitting this way when the photographer walked
ten poses you really like from fashion or glamourup.
magazines, or poses you've learned from previousIn most pose situations you want your arms, legs,
photo shoots. Take time to practice each pose inwrists, etc. slightly bent unless you are directed to do
front of a mirror until you feel comfortable and haveotherwise Most people don't stand or sit with their
the confidence of knowing you look great doingarms and legs completely stiff. A good point to
these poses.remember is, if it will bend, bend it.
Hands and Facial ExpressionMona Lisa Smile?
Also, focus on what to do with your hands and payAnother posing tip to remember is that you don't
attention to facial expressions. A pose is virtuallyalways have to smile. You should have a good
dead and unimaginative without a "look". You shouldvariety of smiling and serious looks. But, sometimes
be able to close your eyes, imagine a thought, openyou will want to give a large, open-mouthed laugh. If
your eyes and sell that thought. Practice thisyou are susposed to be happy, look the part!
technique and your photos will come alive.Your Eyes are the Windows to Your Soul
Become an Idea FactoryDon't always look straight into the camera. When you
Unless you are shooting for an advertising agency orcut your eyes to the left or right, you create an air
some other type of special interest session manyof mystery. When you look up and away, you are
photographers recommend that you bring some ofannoyed. Tilt your chin slightly down and look straight
your own posing ideas to the shoot. In addition toahead for a sexy look.
your ideas, the photographer may have his or herAbout Blinking
own idea of how the session should go.Beware of the Blink! If you have to blink, try to blink
Rapport with Your Photographerbetween exposures. This is not always easy,
Always work with a photographer you feel you canespecially if you are working in a photography studio.
trust. This will make communication between the twoSome models get into a habit of anticipating the
of you easier and give you the confidence tostrobes and start to close their eyes when the
express your own ideas.picture is about to be snapped.
Always listen to what the photographer tells you. IfGet into the habit of not paying attention to the
you are really uncomfortable with the pose, let yourflash and concentrate wholy on the pose, your body
photographer know how you feel, in a nice way.language, hand position, etc. and your images will
Remember, he is looking through the camera lens andcome out as you expect.
might see something you don't.Be Bold!!
If the photographer says she wants somethingNever be afraid to try out some of your own poses
different in the pose, try looking away from thein front of your photographer. Most photographers
camera or giving a unique facial expression. This isare glad to hear suggestions from you.
where your practice in front of the mirror really pays.How do You See Yourself?
PostureWhen you look at your final images don't be critical
When posing you should always keep good postureof yourself. Find positive ways to improve your
unless the photographer instructs you to doposing. Discover your strengths and weaknesses and
otherwise. Hold your stomach in to give yourshoot for the stars.
abdomen a more toned appearance. If you haveI am certain that Tyra Banks still works on her
gained a few pounds stick out your chin a little toappearance and her posing artistry even though she
avoid the appearance of a double chin in your photos.has achieved a degree of stardom. Shouldn't you?
Keep your fingers slightly apart and pointed away