I. Foundational Principles & General Tips
* Communication is Key: Talk to your subject! Explain what you're looking for. A simple "I want you to look confident and relaxed" can go a long way. Give clear, concise instructions, not vague ones.
* Start Simple: Begin with basic poses and gradually add complexity. Don't overwhelm your subject.
* Consider Body Type and Clothing: Poses that work for a lean, athletic build might not be the best for someone with a larger frame. Also, certain clothing looks better in certain poses. Adjust accordingly.
* Pay Attention to the Hands: Hands can be awkward if not addressed. Give them something to do (hold an object, rest in a pocket, lean on a surface). Avoid clenched fists unless it's specifically for a powerful pose. Keep hands relaxed.
* The Jawline: A strong jawline often looks good in portraits. Have the subject slightly jut their jaw forward and down. This tightens the skin under the chin. It might feel unnatural to them, so tell them it's for the camera.
* Posture: Good posture is crucial. Imagine a string pulling the subject up from the crown of their head. Shoulders should be relaxed, not hunched.
* Angles: Experiment with different angles. Shooting from a slightly higher angle can be slimming, while shooting from a lower angle can make someone look more powerful.
* Weight Distribution: Shifting weight onto one leg can create a more relaxed and dynamic pose.
* The "Squinch": (Coined by Peter Hurley) A subtle narrowing of the eyes (bottom eyelid raising slightly) conveys confidence and authenticity. It's not a full squint, but a controlled narrowing.
* Mirroring: Mirroring the subject's body language (if they're already standing naturally) can help them feel more comfortable.
* Practice: Practice with friends or family to get comfortable with directing and posing.
* Know your Lighting: Posing goes hand in hand with lighting. The angle of light can drastically change the look of a pose.
II. Standing Poses
* The Classic Stance:
* Feet shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly forward.
* Weight shifted slightly to one leg.
* Hands in pockets (thumbs out or completely in), one hand in pocket, or arms crossed (but not too tight).
* Slight turn of the body to the camera (usually about 45 degrees). This is generally more flattering than facing the camera straight on.
* Leaning:
* Leaning against a wall, tree, or other object.
* One shoulder against the surface, the other slightly forward.
* One leg bent, foot against the wall.
* Use the leaning surface to ground the hand.
* Arms Crossed (Use Sparingly):
* Can convey confidence, but can also look defensive.
* Avoid crossing arms *too* tightly. Leave some space between the arms and chest.
* Try crossing at the forearms instead of the upper arms for a less aggressive look.
* Consider a slight lean.
* The "Power Stance":
* Feet wider than shoulder-width apart, grounded.
* Hands on hips (optional).
* Straight back, chest out.
* Confident expression.
* Walking/Motion:
* Capture the subject mid-stride.
* Focus on a natural gait.
* Experiment with different speeds.
* Use continuous shooting mode to capture a sequence of images.
* Using Props:
* Holding a jacket over the shoulder.
* Carrying a briefcase or bag.
* Holding a book or newspaper.
* Holding a sports item (ball, bat, etc.).
* Back to Camera:
* Subject facing away from the camera, looking over their shoulder.
* Good for showcasing clothing or a scenic background.
III. Sitting Poses
* The Relaxed Lean:
* Sitting on a chair, bench, or steps.
* Leaning forward slightly, elbows on knees.
* Hands clasped loosely or dangling.
* Can also lean back, using one arm to support the body.
* The Cross-Legged Sit:
* Sitting on the ground with legs crossed.
* Keep the back straight.
* Experiment with different hand positions (resting on knees, on the ground).
* Sitting on a Stool:
* One leg slightly forward, the other back and resting on the rung of the stool.
* Slightly leaning forward.
* Arms resting on the thighs.
* On Steps/Stairs:
* Sitting on a step, one leg extended, the other bent.
* Vary the position of the arms (resting on the extended leg, on the step next to them).
* Formal Seated Pose:
* Sitting upright in a chair, back straight but not stiff.
* Hands resting on the lap or on the arms of the chair.
* Legs crossed at the ankles or knees. (At the knees often looks more relaxed)
IV. Lying Down Poses
* On the Stomach:
* Lying on the stomach, propped up on elbows.
* Look towards the camera.
* Can be done on grass, sand, or a bed.
* On the Back:
* Lying on the back, arms relaxed at the sides or above the head.
* One leg bent, the other straight.
* Soften the chin area with light.
* On the Side:
* Lying on the side, one arm supporting the head.
* Legs slightly bent.
* Soft lighting is key for this pose.
V. Portraits & Headshots
* The 45-Degree Angle:
* Turning the body slightly to the side (about 45 degrees) is generally more flattering.
* It creates shadows that define the face.
* Chin Out and Down (Slightly):
* This helps define the jawline. Tell the subject to imagine they're pushing their chin forward and down (it's a subtle movement).
* Eye Contact:
* Direct eye contact creates a connection with the viewer.
* Experiment with looking slightly above or to the side of the camera for a more thoughtful look.
* The Squinch: As mentioned above, the subtle narrowing of the eyes.
* Smile vs. No Smile:
* A genuine smile is always best. Encourage the subject to think of something that makes them happy.
* A slight smirk or a more serious expression can also be effective.
* Head Tilt:
* A slight head tilt can add interest and personality.
* Hair:
* Make sure hair is styled and in place.
* Consider wind or movement for a more dynamic shot.
VI. Posing for Different Styles
* Casual/Lifestyle:
* Focus on natural, unposed moments.
* Capture the subject doing everyday activities.
* Candid shots are key.
* Business/Professional:
* Convey confidence and professionalism.
* Pay attention to posture and attire.
* Consider the setting (office, meeting room).
* Fashion/Editorial:
* More stylized and dramatic poses.
* Experiment with angles and lighting.
* Focus on showcasing the clothing and accessories.
* Fitness/Athletic:
* Highlight the subject's physique.
* Action shots can be effective.
* Use dynamic poses that show strength and power.
VII. Things to Avoid
* Stiff, Unnatural Poses: The goal is to make the subject look comfortable and confident.
* Awkward Hand Placement: Pay attention to where the hands are and make sure they look natural.
* Double Chins: Be mindful of the angle of the head and chin.
* Closed-Off Body Language: Avoid crossed arms (unless intentional) and hunched shoulders.
* Forcing a Smile: A fake smile is never flattering.
* Ignoring the Background: Make sure the background is clean and uncluttered.
* Over-Posing: Sometimes, the best poses are the ones that happen naturally.
VIII. Developing Your Eye
* Study Posing Guides: Look at magazines, websites, and books to see how professional models are posed.
* Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better you'll become at posing.
* Get Feedback: Ask other photographers or models for feedback on your work.
* Trust Your Instincts: If a pose doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to change it.
By combining these tips and practicing regularly, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of posing men! Good luck!