How to Pose People Who Are Not Models for Natural and Authentic Portraits

Posing non-models for natural and authentic portraits requires a blend of communication, creativity, and an understanding of how to make your subject feel comfortable. Here are some practical tips:

1. Create a Comfortable Environment

• Build Rapport: Talk to your subject to ease nerves and create a relaxed atmosphere. Share a little about the shoot and your vision.
• Choose the Right Setting: Select a location where the subject feels at ease, whether it’s their home, a park, or a familiar urban setting.

2. Start with Simple, Natural Poses

• Stand at Ease: Have them stand naturally, shifting their weight to one leg, with arms loosely at their sides or in pockets.
• Seated Positions: Let them sit on a chair, bench, or the ground in a relaxed posture, leaning slightly forward for engagement.
• Walk and Talk: Capture them walking naturally or having a conversation—this often results in candid, genuine expressions.

3. Give Clear, Gentle Guidance

• Use Verbal Cues: Say things like, “Turn slightly this way,” or “Look over your shoulder.” Avoid overly technical terms.
• Demonstrate Poses: Show them what you mean by demonstrating a pose yourself—it’s often easier for them to imitate.
• Micro-Adjustments: Guide small tweaks, like tilting the head or adjusting hand placement, to refine the pose.

4. Focus on Hands and Expression

• Natural Hand Placement: Encourage them to interact with props (e.g., holding a mug or book) or place hands casually (e.g., in pockets or resting on a table).
• Expressions Over Poses: Joke around or talk about topics that elicit genuine smiles or thoughtful expressions.

5. Leverage Movement

• Incorporate Actions: Ask them to fix their hair, adjust their jacket, or walk toward you slowly. These small actions create organic moments.
• Spin or Twirl: For playful energy, encourage a spin, jump, or other spontaneous movement.

6. Use Props and Surroundings

• Lean or Sit Against Objects: Walls, railings, or furniture provide natural support and can inspire casual poses.
• Hold Everyday Items: Adding props like coffee cups, phones, or books keeps hands busy and poses dynamic.

7. Embrace Imperfections

• Capture Candid Moments: Take photos in between poses when the subject isn’t “trying” to pose—they’re often the most authentic.
• Celebrate Their Personality: Focus on what makes them unique—the way they laugh, their quirks, or their thoughtful expressions.

8. Experiment with Angles and Framing

• Try Different Perspectives: Shoot from slightly above, at eye level, or from the side to find their best angles.
• Use Negative Space: Incorporate more of the environment to add context and make the pose feel natural.

9. Compliment and Encourage

• Offer positive feedback throughout the shoot to boost confidence. A simple, “That looks great!” or “You’re doing amazing!” goes a long way.

10. End on a High Note

Wrap up with something fun or relaxed, ensuring they leave the session feeling good about the experience.