The next time you scroll through Instagram, remember: There's A LOT to learn—from impeccable photography skills to foolproof, red-carpet-ready poses. It’s as if you can find inspiration at every nook and corner, legit. That said, recreating your favourite celebrity’s pose IRL is tougher than you think. Please note: they have access to a fully stocked wardrobe, state-of-the-art technology, and a professional photographer—which you probably don’t. However, that in no way suggests that you can’t do a pretty good job at capturing an Instagram-worthy click if you follow some basic rules.
Below, we’ve shortlisted a few posing tips that you should keep in mind the next time you get your camera out. Of course, let us be clear about one thing: we are in no way encouraging an ‘ideal’ in terms of skin colour, body type, or exorbitantly priced ensembles. Be YOU, when you strike a pose.
Work Your Angles
When taking a full-body picture, make sure that the camera is just below eye-level. A photograph aimed ever-so-slightly upward makes for long lines—hello, legs! Similarly, hold the camera above while taking a face-focused shot to give it more definition and to accentuate your best features.
Relax Yourself
Believe it or not, people can tell if you’re too tight or tense in your photos. Relax your shoulders, face muscles, eyes, basically, everything. Your body speaks to the camera and your picture will certainly speak to your audience.
Maintain Good Posture
When it comes to posing, slouching is crime. Stand (or sit) upright, hold your stomach in, and look POWERFUL and CONFIDENT.
Know Your ‘Good’ Side
While some people are born blessed, other’s have a good and a bad side (we’re not talking personality, FYI). So, identify which side works better for you, and flaunt it.
Walk It Like You Talk It
Some of the best poses aren’t poses at all—they’re actions caught in the moment. So, try strutting down the street and take bursts of photos. Odds are you’ll find at least one good picture from a bunch of not-so-good ones.
Elongate Your Lines
To look elongated, stick one foot out or stand on your tippy toes. You could also stand with one leg crossed over the other to narrow your hips.
Over-the-Shoulder Look
A celebrity red-carpet favourite, begin by having your back to the camera and then looking over your shoulder. Lift your shoulders, curve your back, and lower your chin slightly.
One Hand vs. Both Hands on the Hips
An evergreen pose, place one hand on your hip, tilt your body, and look to the camera. The other hand can comfortably dangle along the side of your body. Alternatively, you could place both your hands on your hip, paired with a smouldering gaze.
