Moments In Infinity

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Posing tips for an engagement session

There are natural and beautiful poses for everyone.  As a photographer, I try keep an eye out for awkward poses, that might be uncomfortable or unsuitable for the couple, and will stop and re-pose as necessary.  Here are some suggestions to keep in mind as you pose through your engagement session.

The Smile

A basic, but also very nuanced part of a pose is the smile.  Don't smile for the camera, but smile for the person that you love, and think of them when you smile.  If that doesn't seem natural try smiling after a good laugh, or try giving your best soft smile.

Posture

Elongate your neck and torso by standing tall, and not slouching.  Curved backs do not show well in empty space and are more noticeable.  Also keep in my mind to relax the shoulders and arms when standing tall so they don’t appear tense.

Arms

To avoid showing your upper triceps, as too large try not to lean all your weight on your arms when placing them against a surface, like a wall or your partner.  Try to distribute some of the weight into your legs.  This becomes less of an issue when you are using your arms and are holding or embracing your partner, or holding a prop such as flowers.

Hands

Holding hands, touching, and embracing your partner show up very well and help show the story of who you are.  Some things to keep in mind with hands is to keep the fingers together, or relaxed when possible so they do not show too big or tense. 

Legs

For the ladies Keep in mind to show off the length and profile of your legs.  So if you are kicking your legs back or forward point your toes.  If you are standing straight at camera maybe cross one leg slightly over, or push your upper torso slightly forward to give your legs some length on camera.  For men it's good to show the profile of the legs, but keep the feet on the ground to show strength.

Hiding trouble spots 

Objects appear smaller the further they are from the camera.  So if you are conscious about your chin tuck it down slightly to make it appear smaller.  Or if your buttocks or stomach are an issue, lean forward a slight to move the area away from the camera