The Posing Game

Working with Real People

Overview:
Master posing strategies that work for real people, not just models. Create flattering, confident portraits with ease.

🔍 Learning Objectives:

  • Pose people of all shapes, sizes, and comfort levels.
  • Understand body language and its impact.
  • Use posing flow and subtle adjustments to improve portraits.

🧠 Discussion Topics:

  • Pose Fundamentals: Spine alignment, chin direction, shoulder position, hands and feet.
  • Adapting Poses: Working with different body types and ages.
  • Pose Flow: Moving naturally between poses, not stiff or staged.
  • Details Matter: Eyes, fingers, expressions, tension spots.
  • Working with Clients: Giving clear direction, avoiding overcorrection, reading comfort levels.
  • Using chairs, walls, stairs, and props to support posing.

🎯 Practical Exercises:

  • Pose the same person standing, seated, and leaning.
  • Pose challenge: Flatter different body types.
  • Shoot 5-pose flow in under 3 minutes.
  • Hands & eyes drill — 5 photos focusing on expressive hand placement.

✅ Outcomes:

  • Confident portraits that feel natural and show control over pose and presence.