Want to look natural in your photographs??
One of the most common things I hear from clients is: “I don’t know how to pose!” - don’t worry, I’ve got you! During your session I will help you and give you some guidance of where and how to stand. Looking natural in photos doesn’t mean you have to know how to model, some times simple things like putting a hand in a pocket or bending a knee can make a big difference. Here are some simple posing tips and tricks to help you feel a little less nervous for your next photo session.
family photograph. Huon Valley. Tasmania.
One of the first things I will tell you to do is: Bend Something (Seriously — Anything!)
When we stand stiff and straight, we tend to look awkward. A simple bend in the knees or elbow can bring movement and life to your pose. Try bending one knee and shift your weight to one side or place a hand on your hip or let it rest gently in a pocket. So, if it bends, bend it (just a little!)
2. The second thing I will tell is: Lower Your Chin Slightly (But Not Too Much!)
A lifted chin can create an unflattering angle, especially in close-ups. Often we tend to say ‘cheese’ when getting a candid photograph taken, but that brings our chin back and even if we don’t, it can appear as if we have a double chin, and no body wants that! Lowering your chin and moving it out just a touch helps define your jawline and makes you look more relaxed and engaged.
3. Angle Your Body, Don’t Face the Camera Head-On
Standing squarely to the camera can make you appear wider and more rigid. This also looks really awkward if you are all standing in a row! You can turn your body slightly to the side with your shoulders at an angle. If you do this as well as tip number one (bending the knee) you will look natural, and flattering.
4. Relax Your Hands
Hands can be awkward and we often don’t know what to do with our hands! Keep them relaxed and purposeful, you can place your hands in your pocket, or on your hip or lightly tuck your hair behind your ear. If you have a little ones, holding their hands or placing your arm across their chest can look and feel natural. Keep your hands slowly moving to different positions and you will avoid making them look and feel awkward.
5. Move Between Shots
Don’t freeze! Some of the best photos come in those moments between poses. Shift your weight, laugh, fix your hair, or look away for a second. Slow movement allows you to move your hands, bend your leg or even hold your loved ones arm or hand. Slow movements keep you relaxed, in control and creates candid moments.
6. Smile With Your Eyes (Yes, Really!)
We’ve all seen a fake smile in photos. To bring real warmth into your expression, think of something that makes you happy — a person, a memory, or even your pet. I will often ask you to do a stupid laugh, or make a funny face, not because I want to capture the funny face or the funny laugh, but because I want to capture what comes after those silly things - and it’s almost always a genuine laugh or smile.
7. Lean In
Whether sitting or standing, a slight lean toward the camera feels more connected and inviting. Often we move backward away from the camera, which can make us look a bit awkward and definitely not natural. Leaning toward the camera makes you look confident and engaged.
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Great posing is all about relaxation, movement, and small intentional tweaks. You don’t need to be a professional model — you just need to feel at ease and trust your photographer (that’s me!) to guide you.
During our shoot, I’ll talk you through each pose and give gentle direction so nothing feels forced or awkward. You’ll be amazed at how just a little guidance makes all the difference. If you have little ones, playing games like round and round the garden, or red light green light always creates fun and the kids will enjoy mum and dad playing their favourite games with them!
