Hey all,
I've recently picked up a DSLR again and got the shutterbug! A little history on my past shooting experience...
Last camera I had was a Canon 7dmk1 with a 24-70L I and a 24L. Back then I was mainly shooting automotive stuff which was great. Fast forward to now, I just picked up a used Canon 1dmkii off kijiji/craigslist for what I think was a great price. Also picked up the Nifty fifty off my buddy for a steal of a price!
Thats what I'm working with right now and I had some questions regarding posing a model for portraits. Last night I took my beautiful girlfriend to the downtown core to take some shots. What I feel I struggled to do was to direct her on how to pose or what to do in general when taking shots like these.
I guess since I don't have much experience shooting people, I just drew a blank when It came down to it.
Anyways here are 3 shots from my little walk around with her :D
TLDR: Need advice on how to pose a model for portraits
Hi Daniel,
Welcome. I am sure there has been a number of articles and video tutorials on the subject here. Have a browse.
Elan
Here's a tip that might or might not help you depending on your style. You can just ask the model to do stuff (move around, sit down, stand up, walk toward you, pass his or her hand through his or her hair, check his or her shirt, etc.) and capture images while he or she does it. I think you can get pretty good results this way, and natural results too! Hope this help! :)
It's difficult but easy as the same time, every model is different and each may require a different approach.
Usually, I feel them out when starting, I'll ask them to do 'whatever they feel like' for the first five minutes. Basically a warm up.
If they are doing well, just keep going with the flow. If they are stiff, talk to them as if you're both just hanging out. The goal here is to make them forget they are even shooting. When the moment feels right, pick up the camera and begin shooting.
They should appear to be more of 'themselves' or natural. Once that's accomplished, use positive reinforcement. Say things like, "That's good can you move _____ slightly this way", etc.
And always remember, if you feel like you're struggling still...'fake it til you make it.' Pretend everything is great and you're crushing it. Law of Attraction. Best of luck and welcome!