On Photography 101

Photography is no different. You don’t have to come up with a thousand new ways to pose someone. Use the ways that work for you and your model. Here are 5 of the best “go to” poses

1. The Controposto (or S) pose. It’s a great starting point for both men and women because it’s flattering for almost any body shape and doesn’t require any special props or locations.

2. Lean on me (or working the wall). This is a particularly good pose for people who are really awkward. Some people have a real awareness of their body and they will always look comfortable, but it’s not as easy as that for others. Simply giving your model something to do, like leaning against the wall, can be enough to relax them.

3. Jump in my Car. A car is another great prop. On a bright sunny day, the shade of a car will give you great light and again, your model will have something to do to help them relax.

4. A leap of Faith. As with many of the other poses mentioned, if someone is awkward simply standing, giving them something to do can really bring the photo to life.