I'm a poser, baby: 7 steps for posing naturally in photos

One of the hardest things for me to figure out when I first started taking outfit photos was how to stand and look great. I couldn't figure out where to put my feet or hands, and the whole process seemed so artificial. But after almost a whole year of snapping daily outfit photos, I think I've got a few things figured out. Here are my tips for posing and looking natural in photos. And, bonus: none of these include the word "smize":

1. De-mystify your camera. 

I hate it when someone takes a photo and makes me say "cheese." It's like a sneak attack that forces me to quickly assume a pose and create a fake smile, which often can give off a "deer in the headlights" effect. I think this is why it's sometimes difficult to be in outfit photos -- because most of our experiences in front of the camera are in groups and in unnatural poses. So, it's time to get more comfortable with your camera. Spend an afternoon with your camera, a tripod or a willing photographer. Do any sort of pose you can think of -- stand, sit, lean and take pictures from different angles. And don't be self-conscious -- emulate Vogue models, pretend to be a ballerina, be a clown, whatever! The point is to find the poses that make you feel natural and look your best.

2. Find inspiration.  

Look at your favorite magazines, photos and blogs. How is the subject standing? How is their posture? Where are they standing? If you like these elements, how might this translate to your own photos? The pose above was inspired by an old magazine shoot. After some practice and setting up my camera, I got the shot I wanted.

3. Lean on something.

Okay, this sounds like something a cool cat like James Dean would have done. But the reason why I often gravitate toward fences, walls or docks is because they are a natural place to rest, and they often give you something to do with your hands. The leading lines that these structures have also add a geometric, visual interest to the photos as well.

4. Use a prop.

Holding something in a photo doesn't have to look staged or artificial. Having something tangible in your hands puts you at ease, gives you something to do with your hands, and often implies an action. So go ahead -- grab a purse, hold your bike handles, hug a puppy. Experiment!

 5. Put one foot in front of the other. 

Look at any red carpet and you will see this particular pose in play. By putting one leg in front of the other, it shifts your weight, elongates your torso and makes your legs look longer.

6. Posture, posture.

I'm not trying to sound like your mom, but this advice does have some good use. It straightens your body, and creates a smooth line from your back to your legs. In addition, I think it can also elevate your own mood: you stand taller, and probably feel more confident and elegant. 

7. Lead by doing. 

Our eyes are drawn toward action. Moving around is probably the most natural thing you can do because it makes your camera a mere background observer, rather than the instigator of the action. When my sister Nik used to take outfit photos, she would just move around naturally in front of the camera until she got the shots she wanted. So go ahead -- walk away, jump around, dance, or whatever your heart desires! Some of my favorite outfit photos imply some movement on my part.

How do you pose in your photos? What's your best tip for looking easygoing and flattering? What doesn't work for you?

Earlier:
[How to take outfit photos when you're uninspired]

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