Best Model Poses For Females and Males | Ultimate Guide

It may be a widespread belief that the model’s only job is to appear cute and look at the camera while taking pictures. To be honest, this notion is far from the reality. To be successful, the model has to possess an exceptional ability to pose and give the photographer “that one shot” out of hundreds of shots. Model poses are an art form that is learned and acquired through years of practicing.

The posing skills often depend on the model herself and result from many years of experience and hard work. In fashion, it is about the secret of correct posing and how to create an image that will conquer everyone with the help of aesthetically correct poses.

This post will give you plenty of advice and visuals if you are a beginner model or just looking for ways to improve your skills and pick up some posing tips. Let’s look into the best model poses for females and males.

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Equipment that I use: Cameras: Canon EOS R5; Canon EOS R6
Lenses: Canon RF 85/1.2L; Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L; Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8L
Light: Profoto B1 500 | Computer: Apple MacBook Pro | Photo by © Sergey Bidun

TYPES OF MODEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Before digging into what model poses you can benefit from, we must not forget that there are different types of model photography. The photography approach and posing vary significantly in these different genres.

• High Fashion Photography involves creative, artistic, and prominent photography. Poses include an elongated neck, intense eyes, and a confident posture.

• Commercial Photography has a more natural and minimal approach. Poses are simpler and more natural, such as a hand on the hip or a slight bend of the knee. The model must possess a selling image since his/her job is to promote and sell for a clothing brand.

• Fitness Photography is about showing the model’s athleticism and strength. Fitness models are either lifting weights, bodybuilding, or doing a shoot using exercise equipment.

I recommend you to see our Fitness Photography Guide article for more tips and ideas for your fitness photoshoot.

Creating a model portfolio provides a wide range of model abilities and reveals as many of your beneficial aspects as possible. Trust this process to professionals who specialize in model photography. With years of experience and skills, a professional photographer will be able to capture your true self and create a quality model portfolio.

If you are looking for an experienced model photographer in Sacramento, California – Bidun Studio Photography is available to serve you. You can see more of our photography style and model portfolio here.

GETTING READY FOR A MODEL PHOTOSHOOT

Without proper preparation, it’s impossible to achieve the desired results from a model photoshoot. During the getting ready process, photographers often require a consultation meeting with the model to run through photoshoot ideas and expectations.

Creating a mood board is crucial for any type of photoshoot, including a model shoot. The mood board can be either a Pinterest board or a photo gallery on your phone or computer where you save screenshots of your favorite sample images from Instagram or any other site.

The main benefit of a photoshoot mood board is that your photographer will have a clear idea of what genre and style of images you are looking for. The success rate of your photoshoot will be significantly higher, and at the same time, you can rest assured that you are getting images that will enrich your portfolio.

A mood board can also be considered as a cheat sheet, and come really handy during the photoshoot. The more carefully the sample shots are thought out, the more interesting photos you will get from the photoshoot.

The model’s poses discussed in this article can be used as initial recommendations. It is best for the photographer to review the intended camera angles with the model, especially if he/she has little experience. This enables to establish psychological contact with the model.

For more tips on how to better prepare for your photoshoot and what you should concentrate more on, see our detailed Photoshoot Preparation Guide.

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PERSONALIZING YOUR MODEL PHOTOSHOOT

During the photoshoot, don’t hesitate to express your opinions, and which poses you like the best. It helps both the model and the photographer feel more confident and get decent photos in the end. The photographer will be able to personalize your photoshoot according to your vision.

It will be beneficial if, before the photoshoot, the model thinks what she wants to see in the pictures, what she wants to emphasize? Innocence? Passion? Strength? Maybe something extravagant? Or some distinctive character traits? What poses would she be better at?

The following poses are not only a hint to the model but also the photographer. Familiarize yourself with the variety of fashionable, cool, confident, and unique posing ideas and save the ones that you think will help you to have a successful model photoshoot.

CLOSE-UP AND BEAUTY MODEL HEADSHOTS

The most commonly used type of model photography is a headshot, which is close to the portrait and is a close-up shot of the model’s face and shoulders. Such pictures are most often used in model portfolios, of which models’ business cards (comp cards) are composed. See more about building a model headshot portfolio in our detailed guide.

Close-up model headshots refer to perfectly clean portraits with no visible imperfections and emphasis on the model’s eyes and face. These are the model portraits that you may see in beauty commercials or makeup and hair or jewelry magazines.

In close-up headshots, the model should not forget about the position of their back and neck. If the back is not straightened and the neck is not extended, then the model may appear heavy in the body. The second chin may also appear, even when it was not there at all.

MODEL HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Although model headshots typically do not require special poses, there are certain rules that the beginner model should remember:

• Positioning your face head-on and giving a direct look into the camera is not always artistically and compositionally justified and won’t look good when the picture needs to be given drama. For a better effect, it is best to turn your face at an angle to the camera. Then the look will also be directed at an angle, which will create a sense of intrigue and mystery for the viewer.

• Pay attention to which side the light is coming from. Remember that light creates additional shadows on the face (skin imperfections in the opposite direction from the light source will become more visible, therefore, you need to turn your head so that they are completely illuminated).

• Keep your shoulders lowered and relaxed. During your model photoshoot, remember to be as relaxed as possible, as it really shows through the pictures.

• Don’t forget about the principle of asymmetry: a head leaning to a raised shoulder will create a playful impression, while a head tilted to a lowered shoulder helps the model express her self-esteem.

Headshot poses include looking directly into the camera, half-turn, looking over your shoulder, and so on. In any of these poses, as a model, you need to emphasize your facial expressions and the shape of the chin, and this can only be done by lifting it and stretching your neck as much as possible.

HALF-BODY MODEL POSES

Half-body model shots are often used in commercial and catalog photography. The model must know how to pose his/her upper body, hands, and head while paying attention to the posture.

It’s important to pose lively and naturally and have a sense of body movement, which will prevent you from looking stiff. Do slight body movements and changes every few seconds. When you do that, the photographer will capture a variety of different poses, where each one looks different and natural.

Even a slight change of posture, hand movement, or a change in facial expression will be considered a new pose. With experience, these poses will feel natural to you, and you will be able to do them correctly every time.

The role of the models is to work with their bodies in the way they stand, pose, in facial expressions, and their hands. Professionals on both sides of the lens know how to stand and turn to hide the flaws of the figure and emphasize the advantages.

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FULL-BODY MODEL POSES TIPS

Full-height model photos are often used in fashion photography. Models include full-body pictures in their portfolios to give model agents an idea of their type and body shape. When a female or male model is creating these types of images, their poses should sufficiently emphasize all the advantages of their figure: height, long legs, body structure, narrow waist, etc.

One of the best and most straightforward female poses for full-body shots is when you turn your hips away from the camera, and shoulders and chest are facing towards the camera. This easy tip with help to make your hips slimmer, giving you a better body posture.

Don’t just let your arms hang straight down, this will make your waistline look bigger, and its shape will completely disappear. Pull your elbows slightly back and hold them apart from your body for the best pose.

Putting your weight on a hip and placing your hands in an asymmetric position will give you another interesting full-height pose. If you strive to be a professional model, you must know that for you to look good in the photo – there should be a share of asymmetry in your poses. An excellent example of that is keeping one arm straight while the other one is bent. This fashion pose creates a feeling of relaxation and naturalness.

Don’t hesitate to wear high heels, even if you are wearing a floor-length outfit. Wearing high heels has an effect of making your chest taller, and the stomach slimmer if you extend your elbows back. As you come into this pose with your shoulders retracted and head slightly raised, it gives you an interesting fashion pose.

MODEL POSING IDEAS

What are some ways for models to get ideas for posing? Is it by looking through hundreds of pages of fashion magazines, following real-life model vloggers, or watching fashion model TV shows? I would say there is no right or wrong answer here. You can do one or all of these options – whatever gives you the most knowledge.

There are many ways of getting inspiration for model posing, so don’t be limited but instead be resourceful. When you come across poses that you want to try out – do it. Get in front of a mirror and start practicing those poses. Turn on some of your favorite music to get in a better mood, and you are all set on perfecting your model poses.

It’s crucial to get your hands, feet, and the whole body looking natural when you are posing. The more authentic your poses are, the more chances that model agencies will love your look and your portfolio.

FULL-BODY STANDING POSES

The options for full-height model poses are simply endless. Start with a slightly sideways position to give yourself a strong starting point. Then slowly start to change the position of the arms, head, gaze, etc. With each movement of the body, you will get a different look while looking natural in posing.

LEANING ON THE WALL POSING IDEA

This beautiful pose is obtained when the model transfers her weight on one leg, and the body bends like an S-shaped curve. And the more it turns – the more feminine the pose will be. You can lean on the wall, on the tree, or the railing like in this case. Bend the knee of the leg closest to the camera, to have a more relaxed look. Photographing from a slightly lower angle lengthens the model’s legs, accentuating her height and shape.

WALKING TOWARD A LIGHT SOURCE

Whenever you are taking model pictures in the studio, make sure you position your body at the right angle toward a light source. Having a window light or artificial studio light hit at a certain angle is crucial for a successful portrait. Most of the time, your photographer will guide you through the photoshoot, but it’s best to know yourself how the light works and helps you in the photo session.

When the light is at a 45* angle, it adds just the right amount of shadows and depth to your full-height model pose. It’s a great idea to add a fan for creating a sense of hair movement and dress movement. Position your arms slightly away from the body, by letting one hand hang freely and another one up, holding the hair. Always try to be on tippy toes if you are shooting barefoot.

OUTDOOR POSE IDEAS WITH THE WATER

Taking pictures by the pool, lake, or ocean is a cool idea for swimsuit or bikini models, and not only them. The main thing, you have to make sure that the area is clear from the public or any distracting objects. The model must interact with the surroundings as much as possible, to give the viewer the impression that she is comfortable in this setting. Slight bends in elbows and knees provide just the right feel for models posing by the water. Tip for beginner models – when shooting outdoors, always pick outfits that complement the surroundings by the style and color.

STANDING MODEL POSES PROFILE SHOT

When creating a modeling portfolio, consider adding your profile images. With one hand up and another one down, the model is creating a storytelling profile picture. If the light is hitting the face from the right angle, the model will be beautifully highlighted in this woodsy location.

STANDING POSE WITH CROSSED LEGS

Full-body model shots are meant to show off her body shape, waist, legs, and ability to pose. Learn to turn and bend your body in a way that you create an s-shape that will emphasize all of your model advantages. Add movement to your shoulders, hips, and even head for more variety of images. Crossed legs add an interesting look, which is often favored by models.

HALF-BODY MODEL STANDING POSES

In half-body poses, most of the viewer’s attention goes towards the model’s face and upper body. Even though your legs or feet are not in the picture – don’t forget about your posture. Your torso won’t look good if you are barefoot or standing square straight towards the camera. The more body movement you give, the more versatile and intriguing your poses will be.

MODEL POSES BY THE WALL

During outdoor model photoshoots, look for solid and clean walls to use as a picture backdrop. It’s essential to push one shoulder back and the other forward to create that desired body shape. Create movement with your hips, leaning your hip closer to the wall. If you want to add more creativity to your pictures, play around with the hair, adding uniqueness to your images.

LEANING ON THE WALL

Face and lean towards a wall with the head turned toward the camera. This shot is best to be taken at a location where the light is coming from the photographer’s side, illuminating the model while leaving the background dark. Curve your back and add arm movement to enhance this pose.

PIN UP STYLE PHOTOSHOOT

If you are going for a particular theme photoshoot – your outfit, hairstyle, makeup, and facial expressions must be on par. In this pin up style photo, the model had the right outfit and accessories, as well as makeup look. The sideways posture has the right curve of the body. Even with the simple pose of holding the hands up to the chest, this is an excellent execution of a styled fashion model. Her eyes and facial expressions are strong and confident.

FASHION MODEL POSING SERIES

This is a great example of how slight body movements and facial expressions help models create successful portfolios. These are poses of a confident and experienced model who knows how to showcase her abilities.

Bent arms up and behind the head show that your confidence and strong self-esteem. Head slightly up with eyes looking straight into the camera prove that the model is experienced and knows what she’s doing.

Now the model is sideways to the camera, with head to the side and eyes closed. This dreamy look is perfect for displaying your body posing abilities.

The model’s body is showing the perfect s-shape. Correctly curved shoulders, waistline, and hips put the model in the ideal fashion model posture. The asymmetrically bent arms show how flexible she is with her body. Each of these model’s poses is so different – yet easy to achieve with simple body movement.

PERFECT HAND POSING

There are a few tips for perfect hand posing – never make fists or have a strong grab. Always position your fingers in a way that will make them appear long, thin, and relaxed. In this portrait, the model’s fingers gently frame her face. Her hands are positioned in such a way that they help bring the viewer’s attention to the face of the model.

LEANING FORWARD MODEL POSES

Leaning forward with your upper body is accentuates the face and the chest. The body is not square straight, but slightly sideways with one shoulder prominently closer to the camera. This position adds a slimming effect for the waist, which is always a plus in female photography. Having partially open lips shows that the model is experienced and confident in front of the camera.

TUCK THE SHOULDERS BACK

One of the main posing tips in female photography is to tuck the shoulders back if you are taking a straight-on portrait. Doing so makes the shoulders look narrower since they are now farther from the camera. Shoulders back and tuck the elbows in, the model’s curve and waistline will be clearly visible. Shifting the bodyweight to one hip will give you that ideal s-shape. Notice how all the attention is on the model’s face if the shoulders are slightly behind.

LOOKING INTO THE DISTANCE

To create a more storytelling image, consider looking into the distance. The main thing for the photographer to pay attention to is that your eyes are not looking too far to the side. You don’t want to have the whites in your eyes showing. This over-the-shoulder type of pose is awesome for catalog fashion photoshoots.

LEANING ON AN OBJECT

When leaning on an object such as a ladder, never put your whole weight on it. Use it to gently place your arms on the object, making sure your fingers are relaxed. Curved back and one hip out will give your body the s-shape.

OVER THE SHOULDER LOOK MODEL POSE

Turning your body halfway gives a slimming effect and shows the back curve. When the model looks back in the camera, it’s crucial that her chin does not touch the shoulder. Hands are gently hugging the forearms, giving a natural feel to this pose.

PROFILE PORTRAIT MODEL POSING

Profile shot with closed eyes gives it a sense of mystery while drawing attention to the model’s face. The head is raised, which elongates the neck and helps to provide a beautiful body shape. Stretched out fingers are pointing upwards, bringing emphasis to the face.

STRIKING FACIAL EXPRESSIONS

Arm, shoulder, and hip movements all contribute to model posing, but so do the facial expressions. Having a strong and confident look is crucial for fashion models. Beautiful big eyes and parted lips add that fierce look to your images. The model agency will get a strong connection by seeing a portrait like this.

When learning to correctly pose your hands, make sure that your hands are always sideways to the camera. Never place your hands with a palm out – it will only make your hands look huge and awkward.

SITTING POSES IN MODEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Model poses are not just limited to standing postures. To show your skills and add versatility to your portfolio – diversify it with some sitting poses. Creative sitting poses help to present your modeling abilities and expertise to the model agents.

In fashion model photography, you can see different objects being used for photoshoots. They can be stools, chairs, studio apple boxes, a bench, a table, a ladder, steps, and other objects.

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SITTING POSES USING STUDIO APPLE BOXES

When doing sitting poses, it’s important to pay attention to how the legs and feet are positioned. Always try to be on tippy toes as it adds length to your legs. In this case, the model put one of her feet on an apple box, which gives her legs a more interesting pose.

When sitting on a chair or another object, make sure to sit on the very edge of it, as that gives your body the best posture. Curve your back and lean forward a bit as you are getting your model pictures taken.

SITTING IN A BIG CHAIR

Sitting with the knees up requires flexibility from the model and attention to the detail from the photographer. The back must be maximum straight and not too stiff. With a slight bend in the elbow and wrist, your arms will look more natural and relaxed.

PICTURE POSES ON A SWING

Outdoor locations are abundant with natural props that you can use for creative model pictures. This wide swing can be used for sitting horizontally. With the camera angle being at a lower angle, the model’s legs are more defined and seem longer. Bending the knees and positioning them at different heights gives more depth to the image. With her fingertips pointing up and eyes looking down, the model has a very comfortable and relaxed look.

SITTING ON THE CITY STEPS

The most crucial aspect for nailing model poses is to know how to do the right body movements. This cannot be achieved without a lot of practice. The model pose on the steps is a perfect example of asymmetric body posing. One shoulder is up, and the opposite hip is slightly higher as well. With the correct arm placement, this pose shows off the model’s body movement and flexibility.

SITTING ON A LADDER

The ladder is used as a sitting or a leaning object. It’s important to pop the hip that’s closest to the camera, which gives your legs the best angle and shape. Hands are gently positioned on the hips, as the chest is pushed forward. This feminine pose will significantly enhance any model’s portfolio.

SITTING ON A CHAIR POSES

Sitting on the edge of the chair helps the model to keep her back and legs straight. A slight head turn, an elbow resting on the back of the chair, and legs bent in the knees will help to give the model a fashion pose. Adding just minor arm and hand movements will provide you with a variety of different poses.

SITTING ON THE TABLE MODEL POSING

Arching the back instantly gives the model perfect body posture, highlighting all the right curves. Legs are bent in the knees with tippy-toes pointing forward. The model’s head is tilted back, showing off her long neck. With the light coming at a 90° angle, it beautifully highlights her legs, torso, and face profile.

SITTING POSES ON THE GROUND

Sitting poses on the ground are generally more tricky as they require excellent flexibility skills from the model. If you follow our tips and practice your posing in front of the mirror – you will see significant improvement.

SITTING POSES IN THE STUDIO

Keep both knees bent while pulling one knee up and leaning on it. When you pose in such a way, it’s best to photograph from a lower angle. Doing so will emphasize the model’s legs and feet. The model can be either barefoot or wearing shoes – you can make that decision based on the outfit you are wearing.

SITTING POSE WITH A REFLECTION

If you are taking model pictures by a water source – consider getting some photos with a reflection. Shooting at a tropical location such as this will not only get you in a great mood but also produce amazing images. The model crosses her arms on one knee, leaning forward and looks into the distance. Legs must be stretched out, with toes pointing forward – this makes them seem long and fit.

ASYMMETRIC SITTING POSE FOR MODELS

This creative sitting pose shows off the model’s body movements. The asymmetric leg and arm position is what makes this image very interesting and appealing. The studio lighting must highlight the model’s face, along with the asymmetric sitting pose.

HEADSHOT MODEL POSES

Model headshots are not just a typical close-up portrait or a passport photo. Even though the emphasis is on the face and eyes of the model, there are ways to make your headshots more interesting. Slight head movements, changing hair position, or adding hands to your image – are some of the most common methods of mixing up your headshots.

CLASSIC HEADSHOT WITH SHOULDERS BACK

Every model needs a good headshot in her comp card, but how do you know if you are getting “the shot”? The headshot photo is all about the face of the model and her facial expressions. If shoulders make it into the headshot, make sure you angle them correctly. In straight-on headshots, your shoulders must be pulled back and elbows tucked in. You don’t want the shoulders to appear square and big, making you look masculine.

HALF-TURN WITH THE UPPER BODY

Doing a half-turn with upper body adds a slimming effect to the waist area. Even though we can’t see the waist in model headshots, this is a common pose for female models. Pulling the shoulder back prevents the forearm from squishing against the body, and reveals your body shape. The model’s head is tilted slightly to the side for a more interesting angle.

OVER THE SHOULDER LOOK

The model is standing sideways to the photographer with her shoulders slightly forward. Notice how her head is tilted back, giving her an interesting fashion model posture. Nothing is distracting from the face of the model.

MODEL HEADSHOT WITH HANDS

Consider including hands into your model headshot. In this non-standard pose, the model’s hands are framing the face with fingers all pulled apart. With all the hair pulled back, the attention is all on the model’s face and the creative lighting that the photographer used.

OUTDOOR MODEL HEADSHOT POSES

In outdoor photoshoots, it’s important to pick a location that won’t distract from the photographed person. If it’s a nature location, choose backgrounds that are more solid and in darker tones. If you want to include hands into your model headshot, you can position them in this creative arm-twist.

LAYING DOWN FEMALE MODEL POSES

Laying down model poses are one of the hardest for models and photographers to master. To get the right angle for the photo, the photographer must shoot from the ground.

LAYING DOWN POSE IN THE STUDIO

In photography, the object that’s closest to the camera will draw more attention. When it comes to laying down model poses, you want your legs to be on the front to show them off. Notice how the model slightly bends her knees and elbows while creating an s-curve with her body. Leaning on an object or a studio apple box gives her a better balance.

POSES WITH ACCESSORIES AND PROPS

Including accessories and props is another way of adding versatility to your modeling portfolio. Models often use items such as purses, cool hats, sunglasses, or other objects as their photoshoot props.

MODEL POSES WITH A HAT

The model is turned sideways to the camera, with one hand up touching the tip of her hat. This light touch with the fingers can show a lot to the hiring model agents. This model will be great in selling an outfit or an accessory as a catalog model.

MODEL POSES WITH A BACKPACK

Whenever models use props in their photoshoots, it’s usually for showcasing a particular product or accessory. When displaying a backpack, for example, the photographer must shoot it from an angle that best highlights that product. The model can either hold it, wear it, or display the product in some different way. Make sure that the photoshoot location and model’s outfit complements the product that is being advertised.

FEMALE MODEL HEADSHOTS WITH SUNGLASSES

You can add mystery to your model headshot by putting on sunglasses. This model’s look makes her seem like an FBI agent or someone out of a movie. Her confident posture and hand posing complement her thematic outfit and sunglasses.

ACTION MODEL POSES

Action poses primarily refer to fitness models, but it’s fun to add some action into your portfolio as well. Walking, running, or jumping can help you to get some interesting shots for your collection. The cool thing about action shots is that they are more likely to be accompanied by natural facial expressions.

ACTION & MOVEMENT POSES

In this outdoor photoshoot, the model is doing a walk to create natural movement poses. To get the most authentic poses, it’s best to add some action and movement shots. The model uses her hand to touch the hair as she carelessly strolls through the city streets.

RUNNING ATHLETE MODEL POSES

If you are a fitness model or an athlete, the best type of images are action poses. This athlete is running along the beach, with each body muscle perfectly captured with the camera. By shooting from the ground level, the photographer accentuates the model’s movement making it seem like an image out of sports magazine.

FITNESS MODEL PICTURE POSES

Fitness photos that are taken outdoors allow for more variety of different looks. A location such as an empty bridge is perfect for this type of photoshoot. The bridge rails serve as leading lines that point toward the main subject of the photo – the fitness model. The model shows her flexibility and skills with beautifully arched back and stretched legs. Her head raised up conveys confidence and calmness.

FITNESS PILATES POSES

Pilates fitness photos are also often taken at outdoor locations. This type of exercise is not just physical but also serves as mental relaxation. What better way to fully relax and recharge than being out in nature and even on the beach? The model fully stretches her body by pulling her arms up and stretching her legs out. This fitness picture pose is ideal for yoga and pilates exercises.

FITNESS PHOTOSHOOT POSES IN STUDIO

In fitness photography, it’s important to show the muscles and the athlete’s physique. During the photoshoot, the model is flexing while showing the right body angles towards the camera. If we add a fan, it will help create a beautiful hair movement.

Find out more of our tips and ideas for fitness photography in this post.

MALE MODEL POSES

Male model poses are very diverse, just like in female photography. From standing to sitting, and to action poses – men have a lot of options to create an artistic portfolio.

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CREATIVE MALE MODEL HEADSHOTS

Your male model headshots will be on a different level if you add some creativity to it. Adding some water spray to the hair will create a particular mood that is often used by male fitness models. This will be a very striking headshot for your model portfolio with the studio lights highlighting the face at the right angles.

OUTDOOR MALE MODEL POSES

In outdoor photoshoots, we have the freedom to use any objects for leaning or sitting poses. Notice how one of his hands is resting on the knee while the other hand is just barely touching the model’s chin. This is a great sitting pose for guy models.

PROFILE MALE PORTRAIT POSE

It’s important for models to include a profile shot in their comp cards. One way of accomplishing this shot is by sitting on a studio box with one or both elbows up on a stool and supporting the chin. The photographer will make sure to position the studio lights so that it perfectly highlights your profile.

If you are looking for a model headshot photographer in the Sacramento, California area – contact Bidun Studio Photography today.

MALE MODEL PORTRAIT SERIES

In this male model portrait series, you can see that with simple head tilts, and body turns, we can get unique images. In a straight facing headshot, the model tilts his head slightly to the side. The half-body shots show the male model turns his body to the side while changing the arms positions.

MALE POSES WITH A STOOL

The sitting male pose on a stool gives the model a better posture and more angles to work with. Put one foot down on the ground, and the other one bent in the knee. Setting up studio lighting properly highlights the model’s face and makes him stand out from the background.

MALE MODEL STANDING POSES

You can diversify the standing model poses by using simple studio props such as apple boxes. Putting one foot on the ground and one on the apple box gives a more interesting perspective. Add movement to your arms by interacting with the outfit or putting hands in the pockets.

SITTING GUY MODEL POSE IDEAS

When shooting sitting poses in the studio, start with more simple ideas, and then move on to body movements. It’s worth noting that it’s a great idea to change facial expressions throughout the photoshoot. Body movements, along with different facial expressions, help the models to create beautiful portfolios.

PLUS-SIZE MODEL POSING IDEAS

Posing plus-size models is not much different, except there are a few key points to keep in mind. You have to remember that what’s closest to the camera appears largest, and keep that in mind throughout the photoshoot.

A great pose would be positioning your body about 80° to the camera and kicking your hip out away from the camera. This will do two things. First, if you have large hips, it lets you make them appear smaller. Second, it will allow your upper body to create movement and poses. It’s important to arch the back to create a beautiful curvy posture. Hold your arms slightly away from the body to avoid pressing the upper arm against the torso and making it appear large.

We recommend you to read our detailed Female Posing Guide for more ideas on how to pose plus-size models.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, I would like to note once again that all the examples shown are only a starting point since there is an infinite number of variations for each pose. Do not be afraid to experiment. The model can change facial expression, smile, turn the head and body, the position of the arms or legs, etc. Even the smallest change in pose from the side of the model or a change in the camera angle from the photographer can completely change the same pose.

The photographer can change the distance between himself and the model, or crop and compose the image differently. In general, improve yourself through trial and error; it is not in vain that they say: “Learn from mistakes.” The more variations you try, the better the results will be.

Now forward, fulfill your fantasies!

PHOTO GEAR AND EQUIPMENT THAT I USE

Here is a list of photography gear and equipment that I use and recommend for photo-shooting and processing.

Cameras: Canon EOS R5; Canon EOS R6; Canon 5DS R;
Lenses: Canon RF 85/1.2L | Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L | Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8L
Lighting: Profoto B1 500 AirTTL Location Kit
Retouching tablet: Wacom Intuos Pro Medium Drawing Tablet
Software: Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
Computer: Apple iMac, 27-inch Retina 5k display | Apple MacBook Pro

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Photographer: Sergey Bidun

Written by Maria Bidun

Bidun Studio Photography is based in Sacramento, California.