I Don’t Know How to Pose!
One of the most common things I hear from clients is “I’m nervous,” quickly followed by “I have no idea how to pose!”
Don’t worry – it’s normal to be nervous. And it’s normal not to know exactly what to do with your body. I have some “warm up” poses I usually start with that are very easy – you get to lay there looking gorgeous!
My Posing Guide is in the House!
I also have a posing guide with photos from previous clients who have given me permission to share their photos. You’ll be able to flip through the posing guide while you get your hair/makeup done and start thinking about what you’d like to try.
Since I’m a big believer in “studying up” on anything new, I’d also suggest grabbing some magazines and looking at how people are posing in ads and fashion shoots. Sometimes that will give you an idea – remember that you don’t have to use the exact pose – change an arm or a leg and it is completely different. Feel free to bring ideas with you – lots of clients do!
Some magazines to check out for posing ideas:
Vogue
W
Maxim
I regularly tear out pages from magazines and also have a magazine-inspired posing notebook that you can flip through for ideas. And guess what – I also have a posing guide written specifically for photographers that inspires me. I also love trying new ideas, so bring new poses. We can also play with the surroundings – beds, couches, chairs and bathroom mirrors are just a few of the things we can work with – in addition to either a bathtub or shower.
What do I do with my FACE?!
Believe it or not, posing your body is often the easy part. It’s making the right face that’s tricky! I suggest this: think about HIM, making eyes at him across the room. What is your face doing? Go look in the mirror. See that look? That’s what you want to do during your session.
Don’t be nervous! You can also smile, laugh, giggle, throw you head back – and you should. All of your natural, beautiful facial expressions are part of your session. I also have clients look away from me. Look at the magazine fashion spreads – they aren’t always making eye contact. You can look away, look down and even close your eyes. See, told you it wouldn’t be so bad!
