This is probably the most frequently asked question….”how do I stand?” “What do I do with my arms?” “I’m so awkward!” Let me tell you a secret….EVERYONE is awkward! Unless you have professionally modeled, this is NOT going to feel natural! And that’s okay! The more you do it and practice, the less awkward it feels. I put myself in front of the camera to test some tips!
TIP 1: STAND A QUARTER TURN AWAY FROM CAMERA
Think about your feet. Try not to have both your feet facing forward toward to the camera with your weight equally distributed, but instead turn your body a quarter turn away. You show your widest when facing the camera, but a slimmer sliver if you turn slightly!
TIP 2: tWIST AND POP YOUR FRONT LEG
Twist your waist toward the camera so your shoulders are more square to the front. Place the weight on your back leg and bend your front leg- this gives a nice feminine curve and lengthens your body. Pop your hand on your hip for some negative space. Keep your front shoulder dipped slightly down away from your ear.
TIP 3: WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR ARMS??
You can create negative space with a hand on the hip, or a natural arm cross (not too tight!) can give a relaxed feel to the photo.
TIP 5: HAND IN POCKET
Another option is putting your hand in your pocket to give the negative space but feel a little more casual and natural. Don’t put all your fingers in your pocket (otherwise it looks like you have no hand!) but just a thumb works perfect.
TIP 4: PLAY WITH YOUR HAIR
I know this sounds silly, but having SOMETHING to do with your hands is so helpful. Playing with your hair feels odd in the moment, but can look natural and casual. You can also look slightly off camera for more “candid” feel.
TIP 6: HAND ON FACE
Again, this can feel SO staged, but comes across natural and relaxed! Be careful not to mash your hand into your face, but just lightly touch your cheek with your hand and tilt your head. Be sure your hand isn’t in a “claw” or super stiff, but relaxed and gentle.
So there you have it! 6 easy ways to instantly change the game of your photos!
Interested in updating photos of yourself and need some help! Reach out to schedule a session in studio or on location!
