Welcome to the MAPS Models blog. MAPS Models is a photography studio in NYC. Not everyone works with models. A lot of photographers have the job of shooting with everyday people and we need to make them look like models. Here are a few tips to make your portrait subjects feel like models.
Rule one, the mirror is your BFF
Stand there, perfect your poses and learn how your body shapes. The mirror is a perfect tool to show you what the camera can see – try to imagine it behind your photographers head when shooting and always consider what can be seen from that angle
Pose the Hair
We don't generally think of hair as a part of the body we can control, but you really can! If you are shooting a subject with long hair, the best advice is to tie your hair up so it's easier to see the posing instructions without distraction. Many women see ponytails as the "day-off" hairstyle, but it actually lends itself very nicely in portraits and headshots since you have a clear view of their faces.
Turn the Shoulders
This is a very simple tip, but important. If your subject stares at the camera head-on, they look bigger. By having your subject turn, they are showing a slimmer profile of themselves to the camera, and look slimmer says MAPS Models.
Bringing it All Together
Here's a checklist you can follow for your next shoot.
- Hair is behind one shoulder, in front of the other or ponytail.
- Chin is forward to create a strong jawline
- The arm is lifted from the torso
- The waist doesn't have any visual extenders
- Shoulders are turned
What have you done to make everyday people feel like models? Let me know what you were able to do with these tips and share your own in the comments.
MAPS Models is committed to building long-term relationships with both clients and models, we continue to provide a professional and friendly service to all. Follow MAPS Models on Twitter here for more posing tips. Alternatively, you can connect with MAPS Models on Pinterest for more fashion photography pins.
Watch MAPS Modeling Studio video here
Watch MAPS Modeling Studio video here
