I was blessed with the opportunity to take Zac’s high school senior graduation pictures. Zac is funny, easy going, has dramatic facial expressions and loves his parents. He is currently living in Qingdao, China but will be attending college in the United States in the fall. Congratulations Zac on all your hard work! I was told that he was camera shy but because I knew a few helpful photography suggestions it went smoothly, which allowed me to get some happy relaxed pictures of Zac. Thank you Zac for being a sport.
5 Senior Guy Photography Tips & Poses
1) Before the photo session:
Have a questionnaire for the mother or son to fill out so you can know your subject before the session. I knew about Zac because his mom filled one out. I was told that he was camera shy but did drama and facial expressions in the mirror. Now because I knew this foreknowledge, I was able to document many of Zac’s facial expressions.
2) Know your client.
If you know your client it will be easier suggesting certain props. I knew Zac had played volleyball and soccer. I suggested that he would bring one of those balls.
Here are a few must have sport poses:
-detailed shot, waist and below
-balancing the ball like a genie (this usually gets the subject to naturally smile)
-subject putting the sport ball in front of their face and the subject peering from behind
-a relaxed shot
-an action shot
3) Have the guy relax.
The best way to help the guy relax is directing them to put their hand(s) in their front and/or back pockets. Beginner photographers I would highly recommend looking at magazines and clothes catalogs for posing ideas.
4) 5 Must have Senior Portrait Guy Poses
1. Looking sideways and forward
2. Ruffling hair
3. Sitting on steps or a chair relaxed
4. Standing/resting against a wall
5. While lying down, arms crossed under head
5) Be spontaneous.
Have fun during your shoot. At one point I told Zac to couch low to the ground with his arms hanging relaxed. Well this reminded him of spider man and one-thing-led-to-another and we had him do the classic spider man stance.
If you would like to see more pictures from Zac’s session visit my SmugMug account.
