This week in photography we're going to take everything we learned about light + composition and add in the third layer of taking great portraits-- posing like a pro.
The key to posing lies in a few simple tips + an ability to make the people you're taking pictures of feel confidant, good looking and natural in front of the camera (no big deal, right?!)
Study and Learn:
Watch this short slideshow of my most relied upon posing tips.
WATCH HERE
Next, check out my
pinterest page of posing inspiration. I always like to seek out new ideas for posing before a shoot, especially if I'm taking pictures of something I don't do that often (like newborns and weddings). I often write a list of poses I want to try during a photoshoot so that I come prepared to try new things and run out of ideas (I've been at this for 11 years and I still do that). These photos can give you inspiration for your next assignment so take note of what poses you like and why you like them.
Do these pose examples follow my rules for posing? If they broke a rule, does it still look flattering and natural? Why?
Know and Understand
1. Take a photo of a person (or persons!) with GREAT posing. Do pay attention to your light and composition. We are building our skills here so don't leave those out.
2. BEFORE NOON ON WEDNESDAY email me your BEST photo. If you send me more than one I'll pick the one I think is the best to put in the slideshow. As usual I'll be picking a 1st, 2nd and 3rd place and we'll all see one another's photos :)
Also, has there ever been a more true meme then this one:
Become and Serve
Feeling confident in front of the camera comes from feeling confident in your own skin. I've taken pictures of people of all ages and it's obvious when they don't feel confident in who they are! Loving yourself and knowing your value whether you are dealing with pimples, braces, extra weight or a bad hair day is essential! Our value doesn't come from cute jeans, clear skin or a waistline. Your natural smile, the happiness radiating from your eyes, and your confidence that you look GREAT comes from knowing who you are and loving yourself where you're at.
Watch this short video and when you are done spend some time journaling about why knowing WHO YOU ARE matters to you.