“I Don’t Know How to Pose for Photos!”
A Photographer’s Quick Guide to Looking & Feeling Confident in Front of the Camera
There’s a particular kind of panic that sets in the moment a camera is pointed in your direction. Suddenly, arms feel awkward. Shoulders stiffen. You start asking yourself, “Where do I look? What do I do with my hands? Should I smile? Is this too much smiling?”
If this sounds familiar, you’re certainly not alone.
Not knowing how to pose is one of the most common concerns people have before a photo session, whether it’s for business, a personal milestone, or just wanting to look and feel their best. The good news? You don’t need to know how to pose. That’s what guided photography is all about.
This is for anyone who has ever Googled, “how to look good in photos” or “why do I look weird when I pose?” I’m here to share body language basics and practical tips you can use in front of any camera, not just a professional one.
Posing Is Communication
When we hear “posing,” we often think of something stiff or fake. But true posing—the kind that works—is more about body language and what we want to convey.
Think of it this way: we tell stories with our posture, our hands, our expressions. Even subtle shifts send signals. Posing is simply the conscious use of those signals to communicate how we want to be seen: approachable, confident, powerful, warm, or elegant.
The goal isn’t to turn into someone else; it’s to create space for your real self to come forward in front of the lens.
Everyday Posing Tips (That Actually Work)
These foundational tips work for anyone. No modeling background required:
1. Posture First
Standing tall (without tension) is one of the simplest ways to look more confident and graceful. Think: long spine, shoulders relaxed, neck extended. Not rigid, just lifted.
2. Body Angle
Facing the camera straight on is often a very approachable and engaged pose. For something more dynamic, try turning your body to one side about 25 degrees, with one foot slightly forward and weight gently shifted to the back hip.
3. Jaw Line
This one's subtle but powerful: gently extend your chin forward about half an inch, straight ahead, not upward. It elongates the neck, defines the jawline, and enhances eye connection. Try it in the mirror—you’ll see the difference.
4. Relax the Hands
Instead of letting hands hang or clench, try a soft, intentional gesture: gently touching a thigh, resting hands in pockets. The trick is to avoid tension and keep hands relaxed while giving them something to do.
5. Let Your Eyes Speak
The most natural expressions come when you're thinking about something real. Imagine a person you care about, a moment that made you proud, or something that makes you feel joyful. Let that emotion show in your eyes, not just your smile.
Two Common Posing Questions (That Deserve Better Answers)
“What if I’m not photogenic?”
There’s no such thing, truly. What most people call “photogenic” is really about comfort, trust, and good posing guidance. The right environment and learning to relax make all the difference.
“Should I smile with teeth or without?”
The answer is...whichever feels most authentic to you and conveys the message that you are approachable, fun, confident, or in charge, depending on the use of your photos. Expression is personal. Some people light up with a big grin, others look most at home with a gentle close-lip smile, or even a thoughtful expression. Try both and see what feels true.
Want More Tips?
If you’d like a simple, helpful guide to use before your next photo session, download Seven Secrets to Look Great in Photos—a short resource designed to make posing and prepping feel less intimidating and more empowering.
No fluff, no stress, just a few thoughtful ideas you can try today.
About Mo Lima Photography
Mo Lima is a Certified Professional Portrait Photographer with a boutique studio in Alpharetta, GA. With a warm, empowering approach and a deep knowledge of posing, she helps everyday people feel confident, beautiful, and seen.
Mo specializes in luxury portraits, headshots, and fine art photography in Metro Atlanta and beyond.
📍 Curious about working together? Book a Discovery Call to explore what’s possible in your own custom session.