Assignment 10: Posing in Photography

Introduction to Posing in Photography

from Posing Pitfalls by Lindsay Adler

When you look at a great photo, what stands out? Is it the lighting, the background, or the person in the frame? One of the most important elements in portrait photography is posing—how a person positions their body, face, and hands to create a certain mood or message.

Posing helps tell a story. A confident stance with shoulders back and chin up might show strength, while a relaxed pose with a soft smile might show calmness or friendliness. Photographers use posing to guide the viewer’s attention and to help the subject look their best.

Why Is Posing Important?

It helps express emotion or personality.
It can flatter the subject by highlighting their best features.
It creates balance and harmony in the photo.
It helps the subject feel more comfortable and confident.

Tips for Good Posing

  • Relax – Tension shows in photos. Take a deep breath and shake out your hands before posing.
  • Angles Matter – Turning slightly to the side can make a pose more dynamic than facing the camera straight on.
  • Use Your Hands – Hands can add expression. Try placing them gently on your hips, in pockets, or holding an object.
  • Eyes Lead the Mood – Where you look and how you look (soft gaze, intense stare) can change the feeling of the photo.
  • Practice Makes Perfect – Try different poses in front of a mirror or with a friend to see what works best for you.

Vocabulary 4-Square

Using the 4-square vocab sheets provided in class, complete a 4-Square for each of the following words. To make the process faster, I have included definitions below.
  • Pose – A specific position of the body, especially for a photo.
  • Expression – The look on someone’s face that shows emotion.
  • Posture – The way someone holds their body while standing or sitting.
  • Angle – The direction from which a photo is taken or the way the body is turned.
  • Framing – How the subject is positioned within the photo’s borders.
  • Gesture – A movement of the body or hands that communicates something.
  • Composition – The arrangement of elements in a photo.
  • Subject – The main person or object in a photograph.