Posing can be intimidating, we know. Before your subject steps on set, try to initiate a friendly, casual conversation. Asking the model about themselves can help them loosen up and make a connection. This applies to professional and non-professional talent.

To give you a leg-up on one of the more awkward and challenging parts of photographing people, here are seven specific posing tips for when you’re working with one subject: 

To create more definition at the jawline, ask your subject to push their forehead slightly towards you, bringing the chin down and away from the neck. 

Moving parts of the body away from or towards the camera can shift emphasis. If your subject is insecure about their figure, try turning their shoulders at an angle while keeping their face towards the camera.

Ask them to slightly bend one elbow to create space between the arm and waistline.

Encourage your subject to shift their weight on one leg or hip. This is how most people stand naturally and will prevent your subject from looking stiff. 

Wide stances with angular gestures communicate 

boldness or strength. To facilitate more intense eye contact with the camera, ask the subject to lower their chin.

Facial expressions should confirm what the subject’s body is communicating. Try to keep expressions consistent with body language.