I. Core Principles & General Tips (Apply to All Poses):
* Communication is Key: The most crucial thing is to communicate clearly with your subject. Explain what you're looking for, and give specific directions. Don't just say "look natural," tell them what natural looks like in *your* mind for that shot.
* Start Simple: Begin with basic poses and then build upon them. Don't overwhelm your subject with too many instructions at once.
* Micro-Adjustments are Powerful: Small changes in posture, hand placement, and facial expression can make a huge difference. Pay attention to details.
* Relaxation is Vital: Tense shoulders and a stiff posture are the enemy. Encourage your subject to loosen up. Tell him to shake it out, take deep breaths, or wiggle his fingers and toes.
* Avoid Symmetry (Generally): Perfect symmetry can look unnatural and static. Encourage slight asymmetry in the pose. One shoulder slightly higher, one arm slightly bent.
* The "Triangle" or "Diamond" Shape: Think about creating shapes with the body. Angles and diagonals are more dynamic and visually interesting than straight lines. Bending arms, legs, or torso can create these shapes.
* Natural Light is Your Friend (but not always): Good lighting is essential for any portrait, but especially important for men. Consider side-lighting to accentuate features. Avoid harsh direct sunlight which can create unflattering shadows.
* Pay Attention to the Hands: Hands can be a telltale sign of nervousness. Give them something to do, or make sure they look relaxed.
* Watch the Jawline: A strong jawline is often considered masculine. Encourage the subject to push his jaw slightly forward and down. This creates a more defined look.
* The Power of the Squinch (for eyes): The "squinch" is a subtle narrowing of the eyes that conveys confidence and intensity. It involves slightly tightening the lower eyelid. Tell the subject to think about squinting with their *lower* eyelid. (Google "Peter Hurley squinch" for a great explanation)
* Confidence is Contagious: Your confidence as a photographer will translate to your subject. If you're confident in your directions, he'll be more likely to follow them and relax.
* Mirroring (Subtly): If you're struggling, stand in front of the subject and demonstrate the pose yourself. They can then mirror your movements.
* Don't Be Afraid to Break the Rules: These are guidelines, not rigid rules. Experiment and find what works best for the individual and the specific shot you're aiming for.
II. Standing Poses:
* The Lean: Leaning against a wall, tree, or other structure instantly adds a relaxed vibe.
* Variations: Lean with one shoulder, cross arms, place a hand in a pocket, or look off to the side.
* The Cross: Crossed arms can convey confidence, but be careful it doesn't look defensive. Ensure the shoulders are relaxed.
* Variations: Crossed arms with a slight lean, crossed arms looking directly at the camera, crossed arms with a serious expression.
* The Hand in Pocket: A classic pose that looks natural and casual.
* Variations: One hand in pocket, both hands in pockets, hand partially in pocket with thumb showing.
* The "Slight Angle": Have the subject stand at a slight angle to the camera (around 45 degrees). This is more flattering than standing straight on.
* Variations: Angle the body but turn the head to face the camera. This creates a dynamic twist.
* The Walking Shot: Capture the subject in motion. This creates a sense of energy and spontaneity.
* Variations: Walking towards the camera, walking away from the camera, walking and looking over the shoulder.
* The Power Stance: Feet shoulder-width apart, shoulders back, chest slightly out. Conveys confidence and strength. Be mindful of not making it too "macho."
* Variations: Hands on hips, hands clasped behind back.
III. Sitting Poses:
* The Leg Cross: Crossing one leg over the other while sitting is a classic pose.
* Variations: Crossed legs with hands clasped in lap, crossed legs with one arm resting on the leg, crossed legs with a slight lean.
* The Armrest: Sitting with one or both arms resting on the arms of a chair.
* Variations: Leaning back in the chair, sitting forward with elbows on knees.
* The "Perched": Sitting on the edge of a table or desk.
* Variations: Arms crossed, one leg dangling, looking off to the side.
* The Ground Sit: Sitting on the ground can create a more relaxed and approachable feel.
* Variations: Legs crossed, legs outstretched, leaning back on hands.
* The Stair Sit: Sitting on stairs offers great compositional opportunities.
* Variations: Sitting with one leg on a higher step, sitting with hands on knees, looking up or down the stairs.
IV. Poses with Props:
* The Classic: A newspaper or book can make a great prop that gives the subject something to do.
* The Tool: An instrument, a camera, a sketchbook, can all reflect a subject's personality and skills.
* The Drink: A cup of coffee, a glass of water, or even a beer can create a relaxed atmosphere. (Use responsibly!)
* The Vehicle: A motorcycle, a car, a bicycle - these can add a sense of adventure or lifestyle to the photo.
* The Animal: Pets are always a great way to show warmth and personality.
V. Poses for Different Body Types:
* Slim Build: Focus on creating volume and shape. Encourage layering of clothing. Poses that involve movement and energy work well. Avoid poses that make the subject appear too narrow.
* Muscular Build: Emphasize the physique. Poses that show off the shoulders, arms, and chest are ideal. Avoid poses that make the subject look stiff or uncomfortable.
* Larger Build: Focus on creating flattering angles and lines. Avoid poses that compress the body. Encourage the subject to stand tall and maintain good posture. Darker clothing can be slimming.
VI. Facial Expressions & Eye Contact:
* The Direct Gaze: Looking directly into the camera can create a powerful connection with the viewer.
* The Off-Camera Gaze: Looking off to the side can create a sense of mystery or contemplation.
* The Smile: A genuine smile is always welcome, but it's not always necessary. A subtle smirk or a relaxed expression can be just as effective.
* The Serious Look: A serious expression can convey strength, intensity, and intelligence.
* The Squint/Smize: As mentioned earlier, mastering the subtle squint (or "smize" - smiling with the eyes) is crucial for adding confidence and allure.
VII. Location, Location, Location:
* Urban: Brick walls, alleyways, and cityscapes offer a gritty and modern backdrop.
* Nature: Parks, forests, and beaches provide a more natural and relaxed setting.
* Industrial: Factories, warehouses, and train yards can add a sense of history and grit.
* Home: A comfortable home environment can create a more intimate and personal feel.
VIII. Key Reminders to Tell Your Subject During the Shoot:
* "Relax your shoulders. Drop them." This is a *very* common issue.
* "Slightly push your jaw forward and down." (For jawline definition).
* "Loosen your hands. Imagine you're holding something fragile."
* "Breathe deeply."
* "Shift your weight slightly to one leg." (Adds asymmetry and relaxation).
* "Think about [insert emotion or thought here]. (Helps create genuine expressions).
IX. Practice and Experimentation:
* Practice with friends or family: The best way to improve your posing skills is to practice.
* Study other photographers' work: Pay attention to the poses and compositions that you find appealing.
* Experiment with different poses and angles: Don't be afraid to try new things.
* Get feedback from your subjects: Ask them what they liked and didn't like about the poses.
* Most Importantly: Listen to your subject. If a pose feels uncomfortable or unnatural, adjust it or move on. The goal is to create images that are both visually appealing and authentic to the individual.
By understanding these principles and practicing regularly, you'll be well on your way to creating compelling and flattering portraits of men. Good luck!