How to Pose Models for Fashion Photography?
Modern fashion photography is a real art form where the task of the photographer and the model is to convey not only the image but also the mood with the help of photography. A good photo is like a still from a movie where the model plays a given role. So, a talented photographer should know how to properly pose the model for a photoshoot giving clear directions.
We have prepared some helpful tips on how to reveal the model during a photoshoot, creating an atmosphere of ease on the set in order to come up with pieces of art and sell your photos on various platforms. Let’s get to know how to pose models right away!
Discuss the Process of the Photo Session
It is very important to discuss the work with the model before starting. Discuss the style of the photos you want to take with your model. This will help the model to pose understanding the main standards of the photoshoot. You should tell them if you’re receiving calls for photography exhibits that should further motivate them to collaborate and pose in the best way possible. Moreover, ask the model to show you some of their best poses and advise them on what you like so that they can pose accordingly.
Lighting is perhaps one of the most important details in photography, as any incorrect shadow can significantly spoil the photo. If there is a main lighting fixture in the studio, the model needs to face it so that the light on the face is as soft as possible. If the studio light is symmetrical, then they should pose in the center.
Follow Common Posing Rules
As photography is, first of all, a two-dimensional space, all poses with bent elbows or knees are not correct. The model doesn’t need to push their elbows or knees forward or backward unnecessarily. Fingers should never be hidden, as this will give the feeling that they are simply not there. The correct pose can be the one with hands over the head and the fingers are visible, and the body is slightly deployed in a semi-profile.
When posing in profile, consider correct shoulder and neck curvature. The latter is a very important element when it is necessary to emphasize femininity. When posing, the neck of the model should always be open and slightly extended forward, in order to avoid the formation of folds under the chin. To emphasize the mystery of the image, the shoulder should be slightly raised.
When posing, the legs are either in a crossed state or in a half-step position. This should be done in such a way that the front leg does not cover the back leg, merging with it into one. Therefore, make sure that the back leg is always visible.
No sharp movements! Smooth and slow movements from one position to another will help to create a logical continuation of the poses, without changing the angle from the direction of the light.
Photography is much more sensitive than our eyes. It may seem that in order to change something in it, it is necessary to perform a series of complex movements or changes. But in fact, to achieve a change in a photograph, only the slightest movement of the arms, hips, legs, or a change in mood is enough.
Take Photos of Your Model Sitting or Standing
Let’s discuss some nuances of photographing your models while they’re sitting or standing. When standing the muscles of the body shouldn’t be strained. Avoid any deformation of posture in order not to have an unnatural result. One of the legs should be bent a little, shoulders straightened, creating a natural pose with one shoulder towards the photographer and one hand elegantly put on the belt.
When sitting, the body shouldn’t be turned to the front of the camera. Ask them to expand the body three quarters in relation to the camera, straighten the palms, and stretch the legs slightly to emphasize their aesthetics and beauty.
When posing for a portrait the facial muscles shouldn’t be strained. In order to create aesthetic proportions, a model with a wide face should turn and tilt her head slightly.
Choose A Correct Head Turn
You should create a look not with the forehead, but with the chin, that is to say, keeping the face open in the direction indicated without lowering the head unless the specifics of shooting require it. If you are posing a model in a semi-profile position, then you should ask them to turn towards you with the front temple, that is, slightly tilt the head forward, but in no case tilt it back. The head shouldn’t be lifted too much.
Make Your Model Look Special
In fact, there is nothing but a glance. No special pose, outstanding beauty, but there is a look that holds the viewer and attracts their attention for a long time. How do you achieve such a mesmerizing look? There are several rules. First, the model must have artistic skills or practice them a lot starting with a mirror, trying different emotions in front of it – anger, joy, sadness. A professional model must be able to give the photographer the look he needs.
Don’t Copy
Only a model who tries to be herself and not a copy of her idols can learn to pose correctly and create a unique image. Your models should not be equal to the looks of popular models and strive to become similar to their copies being photographed, in the end, no photographer, if it is not necessary for the task of photography, wants to repeat someone else’s photo. Each photographer has his own vision of composition and, in addition, each person is an individual personality. Try to manifest an individual style that will make your photos stand out from the others.
How to pose models for fashion photography: conclusion
In most cases, models are taking care of the new ideas with fashion poses. However, ultimately it is up to the photographer to decide which pose is the most relevant. Try to imagine the poses and come up with the best resolutions for each photoshoot.
Taking photos is not enough, you should regularly read fashion magazines and follow photography blogs. Get acquainted with various poses and keep them in mind. The created visual basis concerning the poses of the model will help you perform your job with high standards.
