Good posing techniques will help you obtain that memorable
portrait from your photo.

The art of posing is to help render the three dimensional
human shape in a two dimensional medium. There are two very
important elements to consider in posing; the pose must
appear natural, and the features of the individual are
undistorted.

By succeeding in obtaining a natural pose and the facial
features are rendered normally, and in proper perspective,
then you will have achieved your major goal, and the
portrait will be considered pleasing.

Some simple guidelines to follow:

Head and Shoulders

The subjects shoulders should be turned at an angle to the
camera, you decide on the angle that most pleases you. If
the subject faces the camera, the person will look heavier
and wider than actual. One shoulder should be higher than
the other; the line of the shoulders should not be
parallel to the ground.

Feet

Feet should be held separate with one foot brought forward.
The weight should be resting on the back of the leg. If
subjet is seated, have him/her lean forward from the waist
to create a slopping line to the shoulders.

Head Tilt

With the shoulders at an angle to the camera, the head is
then turned or tilted at a different angle than the
shoulders. This causes a small slant to the natural line
of the subjects eyes.

The head of men should be tilted toward the low shoulder
helping to promote manliness, aggressiveness and strength.

With women, it is tilted toward the high shoulder to
create the impression of mystery and vulnerability.

Setting the body at an angle to the camera

As with the face, this will create a more dynamic effect
and will enhance the curves and planes of the body. By
turning the body away from the main source of light, it
will help maximize the body definitions.

Posture

Have your subject sit or stand erect.

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by Carlos Carrion