One thing our talent can all agree on – modelling is definitely harder than it looks! Our job is to make it look as effortless as possible, modelling is not as effortless as it may seem. Professional models experienced in the art of posing are experts only due to hours upon hours of practice.
So here are some of our top tips from Bettina HQ on the art of posing! Use a mirror and follow the steps, and remember – practice makes perfect!
Whether it’s a simple snapshot or a rigorous test shoot, if you know how to pose rather than just standing for a photograph, you can help create shots that stand out in a positive way.
Asymmetry
Compare the photographs here, which one do you think is more interesting? We prefer the one on the right as it is asymmetrical: one side of the models body is doing something different to the other.
Asymmetrical poses are generally more interesting to look at: rather than a symmetrical image, asymmetry draws the eye to particular aspects of a photo and catches the viewers’ attention.
Here is another asymmetrical pose. Not only is it more interesting than the top photo on the left, the model also looks less stiff and more natural.
Tilt Your Head
People rarely hold their heads in line with their bodies. So, one of the easiest ways to create and interesting and natural looking pose is by slightly tilting your head to one side or the other.
Encourage your child to get used to subtly tilting their head in shots. Rather than having their head straight, tilting to either side helps to create dimension in an image, and is also helpful in models appearing less stiff and more robust.
Keep joints slightly bent
With exceptions and without taking it to the extreme, the more bends in your body the better. Including elbows, wrists, knees, ankles and toes. Just remember to make your pose asymmetrical! Soft bends of the elbows, knees, wrists and other joints make poses look more natural and comfortable than standing limbs straight and rigid. Avoid overextending joints, as this may make them appear unnatural. Locked joints, especially knees and elbows can look like that part of your body is bent in the opposite way that it’s meant to.
Create shape and shapes.
Models often practice their posing in front of the mirror. Your child can have fun creating asymmetrical shapes with the body in the mirror whilst also practicing their posing at the same time.Posing can be looked at as creating shapes with your body. When you’re posing, think about the basic outline of your body and try to create interesting asymmetrical shapes with it.
Once they get used to the body positioning and constant movement used for shooting, they can start to memorise and collect their favourite poses.
When models are required to hold a pose and keep still, they can still give the illusion of movement. Positioning the body in a way that mimics walking is often a great way to practice this.
Consistent movement and fluidity also helps your child to appear more natural and at ease, rather than rigid and uncomfortable. A dip of the shoulder or hip helps a model create interesting poses.
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