Hello, fellow rad human. I am so glad you’re here.
Welcome to my new series on posing. As a wedding and portrait photographer for nearly 13 years, I want to help others by sharing what I’ve learned. Most of it’s from trial and error, some from other photographers, past clients and simply paying attention to people in everyday life. My intent for this series is to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, or if you’re a photographer, help those you’re photographing feel amazing and confident. If you’ve been on this planet for a while, you know communication extends far beyond our words. Body language expresses so much, and in my opinion, there is one particular body part that tells more than most.
Your hands.
I struggled for years with getting the position of hands right in my photos. I would love what I was creating, then, in post-production, my heart would sink when I realized the placement of my subject’s hands zapped the emotion of the image.
Hands tell me how comfortable you are in front of the camera. Hands tell me how you feel about the person you’re standing next to. Hands tell me how engaged you are with yourself or your partner. They say so much. But, I feel they are the most overlooked yet expressive part of posing.
How many times have you said, or heard, “I don’t know what to do with my hands?” I hear it all the time. I’ve learned to allow my subject to settle in the initial pose, watch what their body is telling me, then I work with their hands to complete what they are saying. And I keep listening – I will move their hands multiple times while directing one pose. In doing so, I will communicate how freaking amazing they are doing. You’ll hear me – I am very vocal while creating images. I will be so excited, I make you excited and you’ll know you’re killing it, you beautiful creature you!
Don’t forget, the wrists are a vital part of the hands.
Below is a quick video that shows how a slight change of the wrist will help Kristin convey how engaged she is with her fiance, Bennet. We were photographing their engagement photos at Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe, California. These two are gorgeous together. I cannot wait to share more from their session.
I have more to share about hands – but wanted to share this little tip to kick things off. I’d love to hear your feedback or thoughts on posing hands. What works for you? What are you struggling with as a photographer?
Special thank you to the boat charter from Tahoe By Design. If you’re looking for a different experience during your visit or picture session, they are the ones to call! They charted me and my couple to a beach in Emerald Bay and helped enhance this magical experience!
I hope you’re having a day full of peace and love.
Amanda
