How to Suggest Poses to Clients at Events: A Photographer's Confidence Guide

Most event guests freeze when a camera points at them. They do not know what to do with their hands, where to look, or how to stand. Your job is to make people feel comfortable and look their best.

The Golden Rule: Show, Do Not Tell

Verbal instructions confuse people. Instead, demonstrate the pose yourself. When you show someone what you want, they mirror it naturally.

• Stand where you want them to stand.
• Show the pose with your own body.
• Say "just like this" and step away to shoot.
• Make micro-adjustments: "chin up just a little."

5 Universal Poses That Work for Everyone

1. The natural walk

Ask them to walk toward you slowly. Capture mid-stride. Creates natural movement.

2. The lean

Find a wall or pillar. Ask them to lean casually. Instantly creates a relaxed, confident look.

3. The laugh

Tell a joke or say "pretend I said something hilarious." A genuine laugh creates joyful expressions.

4. The look away

Ask them to look away, then turn back on your count. Creates a candid, editorial feel.

5. The interaction

For couples or groups, ask them to interact — whisper, share a joke, hold hands. Interaction creates genuine expressions.

Posing Couples

• Forehead touch: Touch foreheads, close eyes. Intimate and flattering.
• The whisper: One whispers in the other's ear. Captures genuine reaction.
• Walking hand in hand: Natural movement, natural expressions.
• The dip: One dips the other slightly. Dramatic and fun.
• Back to back: Looking over shoulders. Playful and confident.

Posing Groups

• Stagger heights: Some sit, some stand, some lean. Avoid the lineup look.
• Create triangles: Arrange heads in triangular patterns.
• Give everyone something to do: Hands on shoulders, arms linked.
• Count to three and cheer: Captures energy and genuine smiles.

Handling Camera-Shy People

• Start with candids: Photograph when not looking. Show the result. They relax.
• Use humor: A laughing person cannot be stiff.
• Give them a prop: A drink, flower, anything to occupy hands.
• Pair with someone comfortable: Energy is contagious.
• Keep it quick: Three shots and move on.

Phrases Better Than "Say Cheese"

• "Look at each other and think about your first date."
• "Pretend I am not here — just talk to each other."
• "On three, everyone jump!"
• "Walk toward me like you own the place."

The more you direct poses, the more natural it becomes. Start with these basics and build your own repertoire.