How to Pose Like a Pro for Your Photoshoot (Say Goodbye to Awkward Portrait Photography)

oksanakemp
Oct 15, 2024
3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Feeling awkward in front of the camera is one of the most common concerns I hear from portrait photography clients — and it’s completely normal. The good news? Great posing isn’t about knowing what to do with your hands or memorizing stiff positions. It’s about guidance, movement, and creating an environment where you feel comfortable enough to be yourself.

As a professional portrait photographer, my role is not just to take photos — it’s to help you look confident, natural, and like the best version of yourself. Whether you’re preparing for LinkedIn headshots, personal branding images, or editorial portraits, posing becomes effortless when the process is intentional and collaborative.

Below are posing principles that help clients feel confident — and offer insight into how photographers can guide sessions more effectively.

Start With Posture (But Don’t Stiffen Up)

Good posture instantly elevates a portrait photography session. Think length through the spine, shoulders relaxed, and weight evenly balanced — not rigid or forced. The goal is confidence, not tension.

For clients: You don’t need to “stand up straight” like you were told as a kid. Instead, imagine a gentle lift through the crown of your head while keeping your body relaxed. Shoulders are rolled back and neck is long.

For photographers: Subtle verbal cues work best — “give me a little length,” “chest lifted and roll your shoulders,” or “shift your weight slightly.” Avoid overcorrecting, which can create stiffness. And when you capture that pose - show the client for the "ahh, I see exactly what you mean!."

Use Movement Instead of Holding Poses

Some of the strongest images happen between poses. A small shift of weight, a breath, a step forward, or a change in gaze can completely transform a photo.

For clients: You don’t need to freeze. Moving naturally helps your body relax and keeps expressions authentic.

For photographers: Build motion into the session — walking, turning, adjusting clothing — then shoot through the movement rather than waiting for a static moment.

Hands Matter (But They Don’t Need to Be Perfect)

Hands often feel like the most awkward part of a photoshoot, but they don’t need to be center stage. Light touch, gentle bends in the fingers, or resting hands naturally on clothing or furniture keeps them relaxed.

For clients: If your hands feel unsure, that’s okay — your photographer will guide you.

For photographers: Watch for tension in fingers and wrists. Encourage softness and give hands something subtle to do rather than letting them hang.

Angles Over Straight-On

Most people look and feel more natural when their body is angled slightly away from the camera rather than facing it straight on. This creates shape, dimension, and ease.

For clients: Turning your body slightly can instantly feel more flattering.

For photographers: Small adjustments in shoulder and hip angles can dramatically change how relaxed a subject appears.

Expression Comes From Connection

A genuine expression doesn’t come from saying “smile.” It comes from feeling comfortable. Conversation, pauses, and trust are what bring real emotion into a portrait.

For clients: You don’t need to perform. Just show up as you are.

For photographers: Talk through the shoot. Build rapport before lifting the camera. The best expressions come when clients forget they’re being photographed.

Environment Influences Posing

Where you’re photographed affects how you move and feel. Many clients relax more in familiar spaces — their home, office, or a quiet location — which naturally improves posture, expression, and confidence.

For photographers: Choose environments that support ease. Overly formal studios can heighten tension for camera-shy clients, while lived-in spaces often bring out authenticity.

Posing Is a Collaboration

The most successful sessions aren’t about perfect poses — they’re about trust. When clients feel guided, supported, and un-rushed, they often look at their photos and say, “That actually looks like me.”

That moment is always the goal.

If you’re preparing for a photoshoot and want to feel confident rather than awkward, know this: you don’t need to know how to pose. That’s my job.

Don’t Be Afraid to Get Silly

Some of the best photos come from moments when you’re just having fun! If you’re feeling awkward or stuck in the same poses, get a little silly. Laugh, twirl, jump—whatever makes you feel like yourself. Those spontaneous moments often lead to the most genuine and flattering shots.

Pro Tip: Trust your photographer! If we suggest something that feels a little goofy (like running, jumping, or spinning), go with it. Those fun moments can lead to magic!