My Top Photo Poses that Work for Everyone

Feel awkward in front of the camera and not sure how to pose?

I used to work as a fashion model, so posing in front of the camera was part of my daily routine, but even now, it doesn’t always feel completely natural.

We’re all taking photos constantly! Whether you’re a content creator, in real estate, a blogger, or just trying to get that one great shot. You can feel confident in real life, then see the photo and think, “Why didn’t that translate?” Trust me, it happens to everyone.

Below, I’m sharing simple, go-to posing tips you can actually use.

Here are my top photo poses that work:

The Wall Lean — Use a wall, garage door, alley, or any interesting backdrop. I usually bend one leg and add a slight arch in my back. The best part about this pose is how effortless it feels. It looks relaxed, not staged, which is kind of the whole point.

Using Your Hands (aka “The Grab”) — Figuring out what to do with your hands is usually the most awkward part. Instead of fighting it, use them. They’re built-in props. If you’re wearing a great coat, put your hands in the pockets. Adjust your scarf, touch your hair, rest a hand on your arm or shoulder. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s movement. Doing something always looks more natural than doing nothing.

 

The Celebrity Pose — This one’s straight from red carpet moments. You’ll notice a lot of female celebrities pose by crossing one leg in front of the other. It works especially well in dresses or when your legs are bare. Crossing them creates a more defined line and helps your legs look longer and more toned on camera.

Over the Shoulder — Simple and consistently flattering. Stand slightly turned away from the camera and look back over your shoulder. If you want to elevate it, let a top drape off one shoulder so a bit of skin shows. It adds softness without feeling forced. You can also add a subtle hair flip as you look back, which often creates more natural, candid-looking shots.

ANGLES — I almost never pose straight on. Being photographed head-on usually isn’t the most flattering. Instead, I angle my waist and hips to create shape. If you look at how bikini competitors stand (they exaggerate it, obviously), they’re usually turned slightly sideways with a twist through the body. That same idea applies here. In the photo below, my body is angled, but I’m twisting back toward the camera with a hand on my hip to define my waist.

Stairs / Sitting — Sitting instantly adds dimension to a photo. Stairs do a lot of the work for you by adding visual interest and depth. The main thing to watch is your feet, keep them staggered rather than flat and even. From there, adjust your legs and arms naturally and the shot will come together.

Look to the Side — When you’re stuck and not sure where to look, how to smile, or what your face should be doing, just look to the side. It takes the pressure off immediately. You can add a soft smile or simply look off into the distance. Let your body language and outfit do the work.

Walking – Last but not least, if you’re feel adventurous, try out a walking photo. In most cases you don’t actually walk, especially if you don’t have a skilled photographer. Just taking a single step and rocking back and forth mimicking walking can really show off your outfit and elongate your body.

There you have it! These are all my go-to poses that are simple, and make you look good in a photo. If you need any help or have any questions, feel free to shoot me an email or send me a DM on Instagram.

What are your go-to poses?!

-Jenna xoxo