Model Posing: Basics of Glamour Photography Models

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Model Posing: Basics of Glamour Photography Models

Monday, July 6th, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed

Glamour photography can create images of beauty, expression, beauty or any combination of the three qualities. While getting the best out of the posing model is the primary goal of directors and photographers, there are contending ideas regarding the best way to accomplish the task. In the end, though, there are some basic elements that are fairly consistent in every photo shoot. However, the placement of the model’s head can be the most challenging.

One point of contention is the methodology of the execution of the shoot. Some photographers insist that their models have a series of set poses, where the head is placed in a particular manner, the mouth just so and just the right tilt. The other side of the fence, however, argues that this control undermines the spontaneity and natural feel of the shot.

While each side has valid points to support their beliefs, it is advisable that a photographer just starting out try both ways before deciding on which route to take.

It is important that both photographer and model have a working knowledge of posing technique. It will be up to the photographer, model and even the elements of the individual job that will determine the posing technique: controlled and posed, candid or a combination of the two.

The experienced photographer will have many little tricks up there sleeve to get glamour model posing to act and react in the ways that they want for each shot. They will have developed way of controlling the model without having to physically place her in the position. Each photographer will be a little different from the next. Some will use words or show the model the pose they want by doing it themselves. Others may use suggestions or psychological motivation in order to achieve the expression that they want. Some will dictate every pose while others will suggest a starting point and encourage the model to move while they shoot. Regardless the techniques a photographer uses, as long as they communicate clearly and intelligently, any capable model can take direction and pose correctly while appearing natural, not showing discomfort and without losing spontaneity.

Photographers tend to rely heavily on the skill and model talent to inspire, create her own poses and move on her own so that they can capture just the right shots.

This means that part of a photographer’s success in capturing that perfect shot lies in his ability to make the model feel at ease, relax and feel comfortable enough to make suggestions and try different poses on their own.

During a shoot, many models may experience frustration as they come to feel that they have performed every possible head position available when all they have actually done is slowly turn their head from left to right. This can be frustrating to the photographer as well, particularly the one who is allowing the model to move freely and create her own poses. In such cases, you may try suggesting other positions that will give her different angles, thus lending a wider variety of head tilts and turns.

If the model is full face, shoulders squared to the lens, try turning her 45 degrees to the left or right. From there, you can direct her to perform a series of head turns and tilts, lifting her chin or dropping her chin, tilting her head to one side or the other. You can rotate her further so that her shoulders are perpendicular to the camera and do the same tilts, chin drops and chin lifts. Turning her further so that her back is to the camera, have her lean on one arm or hand on a second posing stool and have her look over her shoulder, will give yet more options for great shots.

The head tilt, right or left be performed at three different chin levels. The chin can be raised slightly, dropped or straight, parallel to the bottom of the frame. If you find that your model has trouble with the head tilt, you can try use your hand to illustrate the level of the tilt. If you hold your hand up straight with the side of you hand facing the model, you can tip your hand slightly in the direction you want her to tilt her head. She will naturally be inclined to move her head the same way you are moving your hand. Combining verbal cues with your hand gestures will help her achieve the desired poses. Using your hand to show “down” or “drop” for her chin or “raise” her chin, will prompt her to follow your gestures.

When she hit the mark, let her know she is doing well. Encourage her by saying “great shot!” or “that’s the one!” This will build her confidence and she will feel more comfortable in front of the camera as well as be more inclined to try other movements and poses. If you see she is faltering or struggling, just use your hand to signal her and help guide her into a new set of poses.

Work with your glamour model, be supportive and encouraging to her, give clear direction and you will get the great shots you want.

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