Posing For Portrait Photography - Fastest Way to Make Your Model Look Natural and Comfortable

Photography is an art more than a science. When going for the portrait, there is no natural first place to start from, neither are there hard rules that always apply. Rather, there are simply some things that look good on a photo and many things which can break the whole composition.

When posing your model for portrait photography, keep in mind your #1 goal - make them look and FEEL comfortable and natural. And the way you achieve that is by building a good connection.

People are naturally wary of getting their photo taken. Let them relax and be themselves. It’s tempting, but they shouldn’t be actually “posing” as someone else - they should simply display more of who they already are.

You need to be aware that you don’t only work with your camera and other equipment, but that when you’re shooting people you are working with people. So don’t focus on getting the camera settings or lighting right, start by connecting with your client.

Some of the best photographers actually get to know their subject better than their friends, even, because they are focusing on gaining rapport. When you have this kind of flow going on, it’s easy to get the model to look good. Not a lot of effort required from your side.

The other thing is that you also need to learn how to really listen to your client. Try to get a feeling for what they are trying to convey to you. Also, make it a rule that whatever he or she is thinking or feeling that might affect the photo, have them let you know. If they’re uncomfortable, the option should be left open to look for a more suitable pose.

You can also take this the other way - if you don’t like what you see through the camera, have them try something different - such as conveying a different emotion.

If you liked this advice and want to learn further about posing for portrait photography, then I suggest you check out this blog on posing for portrait photography. It contains more useful bits of information. Click on this link and read the blog.