As a professional photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to capture numerous portraits, and photographed a great many weddings. One thing I’ve learned over the years, is that looking your best for a photograph is not about trying to do a specific pose. It’s much more about being relaxed and being yourself. In this article, I’ll explain why being natural and comfortable is more important than trying to do a certain pose. So I’ve got some great tips on how to look your best in photos!
Firstly, I’ll explain why trying to do a specific pose may not work. When you’re trying to pose, you might feel awkward and stiff, and this can sometimes show in the photograph. It’s natural to feel self-conscious when being photographed – I totally get that. But when you’re trying too hard to do a pose, this can make you look stiff or unnatural. If there is any tension in your body, it can also show in your face.
Additionally, when you’re trying to do a pose, you may be focusing too much on your body, and not enough on your expression. This can result in a photograph that looks forced and lacks emotion.
On the other hand, when you’re relaxed and being yourself, your natural looks and personality will show through. You’ll look more confident and comfortable in the photo, and this will give the photo a more authentic and genuine feel. Basically, it’ll look more like you. So instead of trying to pose, focus on enjoying the moment, and letting your natural self come through.
So let’s talk about how to achieve that all important relaxed and natural look in your photos. Whether you’re getting married, or doing a studio portrait shoot, the key is to be comfortable and relaxed.
Here are some great tips to help you achieve this:
- Choose clothing that you feel comfortable in. If you aren’t comfortable in your clothing, you won’t be comfortable in your photos. So choose clothes that you feel confident and comfortable in, and that reflects your personal style.
- Take deep breaths: Before a photo shoot, take a few deep breaths to help you relax. This will help to calm your nerves and prepare you for the shoot.
- Interact with the photographer. I always like to have a little chat before I start a portrait shoot. This help’s clients to feel more comfortable and relaxed, and gives me a better idea of who they are, and how they want to come across.
- Focus on each other. If you’re a couple getting married, focus on each other, and just enjoy being in the moment. This will help you to forget about the camera, and be present in the moment, which will result in more natural, authentic photographs.
- Be open to direction. While it’s important to be natural and relaxed, it is also important to be open to direction. I may suggest a certain way of standing or sitting that will help to flatter your body or bring out your best features. Often my direction will be subtle, like ‘chin up a bit’ or ‘turn your face a little more towards the light’. Sometimes just a small change can make the shot alot more flattering!
- My last tip is to keep your face towards the light. If the light is hitting your face from the side, it casts unflattering shadows. So as a general rule, always angle your face towards the main light, or the brightest source of light.
So remember – posing for a photograph is more about being relaxed and being yourself than trying to do a specific pose. By following these tips and focusing on being present in the moment, you can achieve more natural and authentic photographs that truly capture you, and show you at your best. And ultimately, that’s what what we really want!