Today’s world is all about self-expression, and our camera phones are leading the charge! But without a photographer, you might feel lost when it comes to poses for your photo shoot. So today, we’re going to break down 10 poses for pictures so that you ALWAYS look and feel incredible!

Poses For a Photo Shoot: What You Need To Know

Posing is all about expressing your story through your portraits. The kind of story you want to tell is entirely up to you.

Our number one tip? Pose with confidence. This may sound daunting, so here are a few things to consider to help convey your message.

RELATED: Senior Portraits: A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Shoot

Pose Tip #1: Style is the key to confident photos.

Think back to when you were a little kid. At some point, you may have had to go to a relative’s party or some sort of celebration, and you were required to dress up.

You were most likely dressed in an uncomfortable outfit you tugged and pulled the whole time. If you were able to wear something you preferred, you probably would have felt better and had a more memorable experience.

This would have been reflected in those old family photos you look at from time to time.

The idea still rings true as an adult. In fact, we are what we wear. Psychologists suggest our outfits alter how we view and interact with society. What we wear influences our attitude and how others see us.

Your photo session outfit choice can elevate your photos or hinder them— even if you’re at a stunning location.

When searching for the perfect outfit for your photo shoot, be true to yourself. Select well-fitting, comfortable clothes you feel great in when you are wearing them. Wear something reflective of your personality – this will give you more confidence.

For additional styling suggestions, grab our “What to Wear Guide.”

Pose Tip #2: What’s your good side?

It may surprise you to know people don’t actually have a “good” side. We just happen to favor one side over the other.

You can usually determine this by noticing where your hair parts naturally or which way you tilt your head when in deep conversation (something we all do). Photography is all about angles, lines, movement, and lighting.

Ask yourself these questions:

• When a friend is taking your picture, how often do you move your head or shift your body?
• Do you find yourself leaning forward or back?
• Are you facing the light or are you obscured by shadows?

Often, these are movements we make without thinking. You don’t realize it, but you are working the angles. 

RELATED: 4 STUNNING SPRING PHOTOSHOOT OUTFIT IDEAS FOR ANY OCCASION

Pose Tip #3: Practice.

To help contribute to the success of your photo session, it’s a great idea to practice poses for your pictures a week or two before your photoshoot.

Try this:

• Sit down in front of a mirror and take in all that wonderful uniqueness in front of you.
• Practice making faces. Be angry and sad. Think of something funny and laugh out loud. Notice the incredible range of emotion your face can show!
• And, of course, don’t forget to SMIZE! Smile with those big, bold eyes of yours!

You may feel a little silly, and that’s OK. Relax and embrace the silliness!

In addition to all those wonderful facial expressions, you can change the angles of your head:

• Tilt your head from side to side.
• Turn your face towards the light and away from it.
• Rest your hand on your face and play with your hair.

Pose Tip #4: Have Good Posture

Posture matters, especially in the world of photography. You never want to appear stiff or hunched over in your photos.

• Look ALIVE: Start with slightly bending or angling your legs and arms. Keeping both legs and arms straight creates a rigid and flat appearance.
• Exude Confidence: Stand or sit with your back straight and shoulders back. Imagine you’re being held up by a string that runs through the top of your head.

A confident pose makes an amazing portrait! 

RELATED: 6 STEPS TO A STRESS-FREE BIG FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT

Pose Tip #5: Add Movement

Movement captures genuine emotion!

Twirl in that radiant dress, crash into the waves or show us your best slam dunk.

Small movements work just as well. Take a walk, run your fingers through your hair, or just laugh (and no worries, we’ll keep you laughing during your session)!

If none of these options sound very appealing, we’ll help guide you and find something that is comfortable for you.

Always remember to speak up during your photo session. We want to know how you feel and what works and doesn’t work for you. There are no silly questions, and we consider your input very valuable.

Additionally, spend time figuring out your good angles and what makes you most comfortable. Practicing these exercises will help your photography session feel more natural. Keep in mind, you will be fully supported, engaging in your surroundings, incorporating any props you want featured, and, as your photographers, we will be there to make sure everything comes out beautifully.  

RELATED: WHEN TO TAKE MATERNITY PHOTOS

Pose Tip #6: Use Your Hands

Working with our hands may be one of the most awkward feelings with taking a photo. We just never know what to do with them!

One of the poses for pictures is to occupy your hands. This may look like:

• Hooking your thumb through your belt loop
• Placing your hands in your pockets
• Playing with your hair

Your hands and arms can also act as a frame for your face and body. They help shift the focus in your photo.

For example, placing your hands around your face will draw attention to your eyes, but be sure to keep those fingers loose and relaxed.

Avoid making fists or spider fingers!

RELATED: WHAT TO WEAR FOR SENIOR PICTURES

Pose Tip #7: Turtle!

No, not the reptile!

This is when you extend your neck and lean forward a bit (like a turtle), pushing your face toward the camera and adding a slight downward tilt of the nose.

Only an inch or two will do the trick. This little maneuver elongates your neck and face and slims out your jawline.

RELATED: HOW MUCH DOES A PHOTOGRAPHER COST?

Pose Tip #8: Location Matters

We LOVE shooting on location. I mean, who doesn’t?

Your photo session gives you the chance to be your authentic self. Finding the perfect location can help bring your vision to life.

It could be as adventurous as exploring the art district in St. Petersburg, strolling through the ornate architectural beauty of the Ringling, or hanging out at a chic café in downtown Tampa.

Looking for something low-key? Take a stroll through Philippe Park in Safety Harbor or just lounge on one of the many beaches of Clearwater.

Whatever your dream photoshoot is, we will make it happen!

10 Poses for Pictures: Putting it all together

Now that you’re done with the prep work, here are 10 poses for pictures that don’t feel awkward and make you look INCREDIBLE:

1. The “I’m Ready” Pose

Standing with one leg in front of the other

2. The Mermaid Pose

Lying in a field or on the beach with your knees slightly bent. You can put your hand on your belly, neck, or the back of your head.

3. The Got It Together Pose

Hands together in front, holding a prop (like flowers), your jacket, or your other hand.

4. The Natural Walking Pose

This one is easy— just walk!

5. The Bent Knee Pose

Put all your weight on your back leg while bending the front. You can also kick one leg back while looking over your shoulder or do a variation on The Mermaid (far right or bottom pose)

6. The Just Chillin’ Pose

Simply lean against a wall or object

7. The One That Got Away Pose

Turn your body, and look back over your shoulder.

8. The “Who— Me?” Pose

Lightly touching your face or chest with one hand or both

9. The Hair Tuck Pose

Lightly tuck one strand of hair behind your ear with one hand. Or use both hands for a more dramatic look (middle)!

10. The “This is Me” Pose

Put your hands above your head— but make it you.

When In Doubt…

Trust your photographer! Whether you’re graduating high school or taking your engagement photos, we’re celebrating a momentous occasion. Our goal is to capture this moment in time.

Photography is not “one size fits all.” Using our nearly 30 years of experience, we are here to listen to your ideas, make the experience a memorable one, and offer suggestions so that you have unique poses for your photo shoot.

Ready to practice your poses for pictures in real life? Wonderful! We want to chat with you today! Let’s book a chit-chat and see if we click!