Photo by Renato Ganoza
Photography is one of the arts with the strongest emphasis on science as well as creativity. To be a successful photographer, you must not only understand the interplay between light and shadow, color and shade, but the psychological connotations of positioning as well. Posing a model or subject (human, animal, plant or inanimate objects can all be posed) is the key to creating the tone and mood you want to create with the image. Some things, like color, shape, background and detail, can be adjusted via Adobe Photoshop or other photo manipulation programs, but the pose is one aspect of the photograph that remains the same and determines the overall look of the final project.
Today we’ll be showing you some sample poses and comparing techniques. We hope this inspires you to practice and experiment with your own photography and build your own pose portfolio.
Image by Dollen
A casual pose with a natural background can add a hint of whimsy and visual interest to a photograph:
Photo by Neha & Lunatech
Pay attention to your lighting! A poorly-placed shadow can create awkwardness in an otherwise interesting and attractive photo.
Photo by poolski
A more serious expression with the perpendicular lines of the railing and vegetation create an interesting photograph that captures personality as well as a likeness.
Photo by Mike Fleming
A classic pose expressing the love between an affectionate couple is a great way to create a familiar portrait.
Photo by Sascha
A different pose creates a more interesting couple portrait. Note the slight upward angle of the camera:
Photo by eric wittman
Children can be difficult to photograph, since they’re often unpredictable and sometimes uncooperative:
Photo by Dale M Moore
But a playful pose can capture more personality and fun than a classic pose. Notice the way the tilt of the child’s head and the angle of her arm with her hand on her hip creates a hint of amusement and confidence:
Photo by Arjan Visser
Animals are another interesting subject for photographers. This cat looks alert and interested:
Photo by Tambako the Jaguar
While this cat looks relaxed. The slightly diagonal angle of the camera adds visual interest to the portrait:
Photo by Feliciano Guimarães
Next time you’re asked to take a portrait, whether at a casual gathering or as a formal image that will hang over the mantel, take the time to pose your subject, trying several angles and positions. Keep a copy of each pose you try, and consider collecting images in a file which you can refer back to for inspiration and ideas.
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Tom Chu works for PsPrint and PsPrint Blog. When he’s not sitting behind a computer, Tom likes watching sci-fi movies and Japanese cartoons, hitting the golf course and playing with his four dogs. You can connect with Tom via Google+ or Twitter. |
