I actually did buy a master posing book to learn how to flatter different body types, but....there were a few body types the book left out.

So, please help a girl out and post your images of bbs

I know this might not be what you want to hear, but try to help your model embrace their size. It is their size.


Use a longer lens. Don't get too close with short lenses as it will distort things.

For a beautiful headshot get above them and look down on them with the camera. Having them look up at you will help define the jaw. When doing a standing portrait don't shoot from below. Shoot at eye level or above.

Remember to have fun.

-Bill

shooting above really does do the trick. I find myself getting stuck on posing allot. Anyone out there recomend a good book/DVD?

Nathan,

I find going to Borders is the best bet. Just get a latte and slowly go through the magazines. The latte helps you not flip so quickly, but actually look at images and find what works and what doesn't work about the images.

-Bill

To me the biggest thing is, shoot from above, like was already said. I also think shooting at 3/4 angles is flattering. For example, don't shoot somebody with larger arms straight on from the side.. etc etc.. Personally I think it's all about training your eye to be conscious of what you're looking at. I think at heart you know when someone does and doesn't look good... Or at least I think most people do. It's just about shooting and keeping that in mind at the same time.

Bill,

Thanks for the idea. The latte sounds good also. I sometimes find my self bowsing through this forum looking at poses and trying to note them down.

Dont know if this could help anyone but if you have an ipod touch or iphone i find it to be really nice to place photos of poses that I like on there so I can refer back to them when during a session.