So, I suck at posing....

[bunny99123]

I found posing myself helps me pose others. I will set a tripos up and use a remote timer. Also volunteer to pse as a practice shoot for another photographer.

I model some, and I realize what someone feels like posing. Hey, this position feels weird. This is taking for ever! What seems like seconds for a photographer is much longer for the person posing.

I agree the more you do it, the easier it gets.

 

[DiskoJoe]

http://www.thephotoforum.com/forum/articles-interest/268210-guide-classic-portraiture.html

This is a MUST read!!!!

 

[DiskoJoe]

there are many posing refernce materials. THe best one I saw was like a deck of cards.... was it Doug Gordon, I think so. What helped me was helping out more experienced friends. If you can offer assistance holding a light...do it. I suck at posing people too.

Yours has been getting better. The models you work with seem to be comfortable at least. Thats always key.

If you need some other ideas you can check this set I did a while back. The girl I worked with was really good and I didnt have to direct her much at all.

Jessica Wahlquist - No Flash Photo Shoot - a set on Flickr

 

[DiskoJoe]

Something to keep in mind for group shots: typically you want "higher" rather than "wider" though some exceptions exist (ie, bridal party). Build in a pyramid style when photographing large or small groups. And keep every one tight together, nice and cozy

The good thing about posing in a single row is that you do not have to change the aperture since everyone will be in the same focal plane. When you have people stacked you might have to use a smaller aperture which could cause lower quality or additional lighting

 

[DiskoJoe]

I really suck at posing adults...or anyone really.

Hum...you got any examples?

YUP and they are BAD! I'll think about posting some when I get home from work.

Definitely do!!! You may not be as bad off as you think. We are always the most critical on ourselves.

 

[TheEditor]

Posing adults can be very difficult! Especially when they're not the most photogenic or have a natural sense of ease around the camera. Here are some pose sketches that I have found very helpful. Difference between men & women are interesting too!

Posing Guide: 21 Sample Poses to Get You Started with Photographing Women ? Part I

Posing Guide: 21 Sample Poses to Get You Started with Photographing Women ? Part II

Posing Guide: 21 Sample Poses to Get You Started with Photographing Men