Hello everyone,
Lights, camera, pose...📸
The three starting elements you need when being photographed, but it's save to say that to create great content/ it's good to focus on the little details. When every detail comes together the outcome is one to be proud of.
Throughout the years of blogging, I've learned some things about posing in front of the camera and I think now is the perfect time to spill the tiny details that have helped me grow and gotten me to a point where I'm comfortable being photographed. This wasn't always the case... In the beginning, everything was a bit challenging because I had to figure it all out as I went. I had no idea about the importance of knowing your angles and letting your photographer take your vision to the next level. Yep, it's hard work, and with the right mindset/support, it becomes something as natural as driving.
To any of you reading this post, who are striving to improve their photos, want to be more "at home" when being photographed, and would like to create images that are visually appealing, this is for YOU! I apply these five steps myself and find that they have completely made a HUGE difference to my photos. To prove it...have a look at my older blog posts from 2015 and compare them to my most recent ones. I knowwww...Exactly!!!
1. USE PROPS
One of the best ways to get comfortable in front of the camera is to include props in your photos. Literally anything would work because with a prop in your hand, you'll be able to loosen up and make it part of the story you're wanting to tell. You can hold something as simple as a pair of sunglasses or a bouquet of flowers...it's special, unique and will inspire you to try different poses.
It's one of the most fun ways to express yourself and your creativity. I mean, that's why most of us are hooked to Instagram and enjoy scrolling from one photo to another, right?
This year, I have used the most props when photographing because it feels more like "play time." I love the final photo results and a little fun won't hurt anyone!
2. CHOOSE INSPIRING LOCATIONS
This one requires a bit more preparation before the actual photo-shoot because you've got to have an idea of a location, which will also go great with your outfit. The place helps a lot in bringing your vision to live. For example, whenever I'm wearing a boho outfit, I like photographing in the desert with a cactus or two surrounding me. If I've got an edgy, chic outfit, I like heading to Downtown for some graffiti walls to be part of the background.
In my experience, the location is just as important as the rest of the other tips I'm giving you. That's why when planning everything out, I never miss the chance to find or search for an inspiring location. Many times when I'm running errands, I see cool locations around the city and make a point of remembering them when the next photo-shoot comes around.
3. PLAY WITH THE CAMERA
This is something my photographer, who is also my sister, always tells me and not only motivates me, but to this day makes me laugh every time. She says, "Radi, now it's time to play with the camera"! 😁
It has even become a joke between us!
I know she's right because in order to get the job done, you've got to loosen up, be comfortable in your own skin and move as if you're dancing with the camera. Sometimes it's easier said than done, but you feel the difference right away and know when everything clicks.
For her to be able to capture lots of awesome photos, I move slowly from one pose to the other and only stop when she tells me to hold a certain pose. That's how we reach up to 300 photos to choose from later!
4. EXPERIMENT WITH DIFFERENT ANGLES
For this one you've got to be open to trying new poses and let your photographer guide you. Remember, they are the ones behind the camera, so they see what's going on better than you. So, even if something they tell you feels awkward to do in real life, trust your photographer because it most likely looks amazing on camera. Also, knowing your body would be a big plus as it will help you create shapes that are flattering and look good in every photo. For example, to help me look taller than I actually am (I'm 5'7), I get up on my tip-toes and have one leg extended forward. This makes me look as if I'm 6 feet tall and I love that in photos!
Something else you can try is have your photographer bend lower, to get a different point of you. Really the photographer can move as much as you and try to capture you from every angle. You never know, some photos might surprise you, you'll end up loving...while others, you can just ignore and maybe try another time with a bit more practice.
5. TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
The best results happen when the photographer and model are in sync, so you'll need a photographer who you can fully trust. This way work flows more easily, you can freely accept direction, and work becomes naturally fun.
For me, since day one, my sister has been my photographer. We've gotten to a point where we shoot for 5-10 minutes and each one of us perfectly knows what she has to do. Everyone plays their part and the outcome is one we're both happy with.
Remember that you can't see what the photographer sees through the lens, so follow their lead and let them be your guide to posing. If they say, they would like to try something new, go for it. It's great to know that the photographer has a vision and ideas of their own, which they can contribute.
What rules do you stick to when posing for photos? I would love to know!
Love, Radi
