how to pose for photos

Posing for photos can range from daunting to outright silly (depending on the situation!). However, if you want to nail self-portraits, print photos or use your photos for other personalised gifts, then learning some basic posing techniques for a variety of situations will certainly help!

After all, your body positioning and facial expression can create dramatic differences in how you look in a photo. With some simple tips and tricks, you'll go from taking amateur snapshots to photos you’re truly happy with. In this guide, we'll explore techniques for posing in all sorts of situations - from family photos to weddings, taking good selfies and everything in between. 

9 general posing tips for photos

1. Shake it off

When you’re asked to pose for a photo, it’s not uncommon to look and feel stiff. Do some stretches and shake your arms, hands and legs to get them nice and limber. This can also help relieve some tension and get you ready for posing.

2. Practise good posture 

Maintain a straight back and relaxed shoulders when taking pictures. If standing, shift your weight to one leg, slightly bend the other, relax the shoulders and bring them back. This posture can help create a more engaged and confident appearance when having your photo taken. You can even try tilting your body to one side slightly, to create a more streamlined look.

3. Engage the camera with your eyes

Eyes are the window into your soul, so they say! Plus, eyes are naturally expressive. For example, direct eye contact can forge a connection with the viewer, whilst looking away can create an air of mystery. You can even “smile” with your eyes to show those positive vibes! 

4. Position your hands and arms carefully

Placing hands and arms can be awkward when posing for photos, especially if you’re not used to it. Avoid letting your arms hang limply by your sides; instead, try placing a hand on your hip, in a pocket, or gently touching your waist, face or hair. This looks more natural and adds interest to your pose. Be careful not to make your hand positioning look too staged - keep it soft and relaxed. If in doubt, hold a prop or place your hands behind your body.

5. Use your natural smile

To pose for the best photo, using your natural smile can go a long way. Rather than forcing a big grin, think of something that makes you happy or amused to create a natural, soft smile. A forced smile can look stiff, but a natural smile lights up your face and makes the photo more engaging. Practise in the mirror to find a smile that feels comfortable for you.

6. Position your legs for seated poses

When sitting, how you position your legs can impact the overall look of your photo. Cross your legs at the ankles or knees for a polished look, or try a more relaxed pose by casually bending one knee and extending the other.

These positions add interest and can make your legs look longer and more elegant. Always be mindful of your posture, even when seated, to ensure you look your best. Sit forward a bit more to appear more engaged with the camera, as sitting as you would normally can look “slouched” on camera. If you want something a bit more laid back, place yourself at the edge of the seat, lean on the backrest of the chair and extend your legs.

7. Don’t be afraid to move

Static poses can sometimes look stiff, especially if you hold a pose for too long. Adding a bit of movement can bring a photo to life! Try walking towards the camera, playing with your hair, or gently moving your head from one side to the other. Movement can create a natural, spontaneous feel and add an element of fun to your photos. Plus, it gives you a variety of shots to choose from, increasing the chances of finding that perfect picture.

8. Use a prop

As we mentioned previously, using a prop can help with posing. Plus, it can significantly enhance the photo’s interest. It can guide the viewer's eye through the photograph and often provide context or insight into the subject's personality or the scene's mood. Whether it's a simple accessory, a musical instrument, or toys for the kids, props are a great way to help you or others pose for photos!

9. Don’t pose!

Is posing simply not working? Then don’t pose! Get some candid photos instead. Laugh, walk, skip, run, twirl, play, create - these are all ways you can get those candid poses in photographs for a truly natural look. This way, the subject doesn’t have to concentrate on “looking” a certain way for photos and can instead have some fun or do what they love. Want that fun retro look? Use a disposable camera to capture your photos, and when you run out of film, use it as a prop!

Posing for family photos

Family photos capture special memories that can be cherished for a lifetime. Whether you’re trying to shoot them yourself or book a professional studio photoshoot, here are some family photo posing tips to keep in mind. 

1. Coordinate your colours

Planning and coordinating your family's outfits can make a big difference in your photos. As humans, we’re naturally drawn to contrast and patterns, so consider opting for colour-coordinated clothing that looks cohesive together. Whether you choose neutral tones or vibrant ones, ensure the colours look the part. Not sure where to start? You can use sites like Coolors to make your own colour palettes, or get a colour analysis with a professional stylist! 

You don't need perfectly matching outfits, but make sure the colour palette flows nicely. Avoid patterns that could clash or distract. 

 

2. Get into position

When arranging family members, it’s common to place parents at the back, with children in the middle. Alternatively, you can have the tallest family members stand in the back and shorter ones in the front. Just ensure everyone can be seen clearly, and if anyone is positioned to the side, instruct them to turn their body inwards towards the camera.

3. Bring out the kid’s personalities

Kids are full of energy and often distractible, so if you want to get them smiling (or showing their silly sides!), use toys and noise-makers to get their attention. It’s also not uncommon for kids to get restless during a photo session, so just keep calm and let them have a few moments to relax or play, so they can divert their attention back to having their photos taken. Alternatively, make it a game to really get them engaged!

4. Use props

Posing can often lead to stiffness - making family moments look unnatural. So think outside the box a bit and consider using fun props like hats, magic wands, feather boas, sporting equipment and the like. Use fun themes that capture your family's personality too such as on the beach, at the park, playing sports or other games you enjoy as a family. 

Want some more ideas? Check out our family photo ideas blog post to find out more!

Posing tips for self-portraits

Self-portraits or “selfies” allow you to show off your fun and creative side. Plus, without the added pressure of someone else taking your photo, you can take your time and be hyper-aware of any micro-adjustments you need to make. When taking a selfie, keep these tips in mind:

1. Experiment to find your best angle

Many people have a preferred angle or profile, so try experimenting by holding your camera above, below, and at eye level. Angling the camera slightly above eye level can give a more streamlined effect, but we all have different preferences - so take selfies from multiple angles to see which is most flattering.

2. Use natural light

Position yourself near a window or outdoors for attractive, diffused lighting. Side lighting that accentuates your features is ideal. Shooting in the morning can provide a softer look, but if you want something warmer, then definitely opt for golden hour in the evening for a flattering glow. Always avoid fluorescent or harsh overhead lighting, but if you don’t have any natural light available to you, then consider getting a selfie light that you can easily clip to your phone. 

3. Try different expressions

From candid laughs to moody faces, channel different looks and emotions to see what works. The results may well surprise you! Once you have a gallery of shots and expressions you prefer, take more of those and adjust accordingly to get a good set of selfies that show you at your best. If something isn’t working, don’t be disheartened! You can dramatically change a look by shooting in a different light or adjusting your angle slightly.

Posing for group shots

Getting a great group photo can be challenging, but it’s certainly not impossible! Here are some tips to nail the perfect group shot - which can make for a perfect photo album gift!

1. Create shapes

One of the most flattering ways to arrange a group is in a pyramid or triangle shape. This allows you to layer people so everyone can be seen. Place taller people in the back and shorter people in the front. Also be mindful of spacing - you don't want people right up against each other or too far apart. Leave some space between each person (unless you want it to look crowded, of course!).

2. Countdown your shot

By making a countdown, you can get your subjects to do the right thing once the photo is taken. If you want a cohesive group photo, have people tilt their heads in slightly to avoid lined-up heads that look awkward. Make your subjects say something like “Cheese” to encourage smiles where you need them. You can also take some shots with people looking at each other and laughing instead of the camera to capture natural interactions. Don't be afraid to get creative with fun poses and activities for groups, like:

  • Jumping in the air
  • Lying on the ground
  • Sitting on someone's shoulders
  • Making silly faces
  • Holding handmade signs or props

The goal is to show the energy and relationships of the group in their true element. Let personalities shine through!

Posing for graduation photos

Graduations are a milestone event that calls for capturing the moment with great photos to look back on. When posing for graduation photos, keep our graduation photo book ideas and posing tips in mind:

1. Traditional cap and gown poses

The classic graduation photo pose is standing full length in your cap and gown, holding your diploma and looking proud. Make sure the gown is properly ironed and the cap is straight. Stand up straight with shoulders back and smile genuinely (and proudly!) at the camera. 

Other traditional poses include:

  • Sitting in a chair with your legs crossed, diploma in hand
  • Leaning against a wall or pillar, looking off into the distance
  • Standing and shaking hands with your dean or professor
  • Walking across the stage or down a hallway in your cap and gown

2. Try fun poses

Whilst traditional standing poses are great, don't be afraid to get creative with your graduation photos - these will stand out in the wall art you proudly mount at home too! Jumping in the air, sitting on steps, or lying in the grass can capture fun and excitement. Get coursemates and lecturers involved too for a truly fun memory to look back on.

3. Individual vs group shots

Along with solo shots, be sure to get photos with your classmates, friends and family on your graduation day. Capture the camaraderie you feel by:

  • Lining up and standing shoulder to shoulder
  • Gathering together and throwing caps in the air
  • Hugging friends, parents, and professors

Group shots showcase the relationships that helped you reach this milestone, so enjoy celebrating together!

4. Use props

Props can add extra meaning and personalization to your graduation photos. Consider using:

  • Your diploma
  • Your cap and tassel
  • Your graduation ticket or program  
  • Signs, banners, or pictures from the ceremony
  • Flowers or gifts you received

Make sure not to cover your face with props - hold them at waist level or below to keep the focus on you.

Posing for wedding photos

Wedding photos capture precious memories to cherish for a lifetime. Use our posing tips below to capture those beautiful moments - and print them into wedding gifts and keepsakes!

1. Embrace all of the feels

When posing for wedding photos, encourage the couple to focus on each other's eyes and express genuine emotions. Whether it's a tender look, a soft caress, or a heartfelt smile, capturing these candid moments creates beautiful and authentic displays of love and happiness. 

2. Natural interaction

Advise the couple to interact with each other as if the camera wasn’t there. Simple actions like whispering a joke, sharing a kiss, or gently holding hands can provide natural and romantic images. These unposed interactions often lead to the most heartfelt and memorable photos, capturing the essence of their connection.

3. Add some movement

Instruct the couple to walk, dance, or twirl. Movement creates dynamic images, adds an element of fun, and often results in genuine laughter and joy. It helps the couple to relax and results in a variety of shots that capture the day’s excitement.

4. Keep your joints relaxed

As we mentioned previously, proper posture is key - although this can easily lead to stiffness. Ensure you relax the knee and elbow joints for a softer, more relaxed look. This can add gentle curves to the poses, leading to a more relaxed silhouette. 

5. Don’t overthink it

Thinking too hard about how to pose and what to do with your body when posing for wedding photos can actually make them appear quite stiff and forced! The poses are really in those micro-moments - holding your partner, sharing a kiss, whispering, seeing your partner in their wedding get-up for the first time… the list is endless. So we advise to just be yourself and truly enjoy your day, as that’s where the “poses” will really happen.

 

We hope this guide has you pumped up and ready to strike poses for photos with confidence. Keep up to date with our tips and tricks on the Max Spielmann blog, and shop our same day gifts you can pick up using our photo store locator.