Model Behavior: How to Pose Your Model During Your Professional Product Photography Shoot

Working with models can make your commercial product photography more interesting. But you need to know how to pose them. Here are a few tips to help.

 

If the number of users of Instagram, which topped over 1 billion in 2018, is anything to go by then photography is all the rage. The people making a living from showcasing their product on this platform will readily tell you that!

Part of the Instagram success of many of these brands is how they use their models to show off a product. Even if you don't plan on using the platform the biggest takeaway is that posing your model is paramount when promoting a product via photography.

Your model needs to pose in the correct way in order for your product to be highlighted. There are a few tips that you need to bear in mind when doing commercial product photography to ensure that you get the best pose to show off your product.

Here are some of the things you should consider to get your model to strike the perfect pose.

 

1. Have a Guide

 

One of the best ways to get your model to pose exactly how you would like is to show them a picture. Before you even shoot, start collecting pictures of models who are posed in the way you would like your shot to look.

In this way, your model will be sensitized visually about the different looks you want. There is an old saying that "a picture is worth a thousand words" this is definitely the case when trying to pose a model.

Even with the best photography setup, if you want good results it's better to show not tell.

 

2. Use Focal Points

When it comes to communicating the direction that you want your model to gaze vocal direction can easily be misunderstood. The best way to get your model to stare in the right direction is to place an object in the area where you want them to look.

You can use your hand in some cases but a physical object is usually more effective. This makes it easier to get that winning shot.

 

3. Position the Model Based on the Product

 

If you want to showcase the beauty of handbags and jewelry then you need to make sure that it takes center stage in the shot. The best way to do this is to make sure the hands of the model are positioned to show off the bag.

If it is a bracelet or necklace then the area of the body where it attached should be positioned carefully. Try taking some pictures from a three-quarter angle, take some shots from the back and the side for variety.  

If you are taking pictures to showcase a blouse then you should make sure that your model is posed to show off details. This means arms should be positioned out of the way to ensure that you get a great product photo.

If you are showcasing shoes then each foot needs to be at a slightly different angle in order for the details and beauty of the footwear to show.

 

Final Thoughts on Commercial Product Photography

 

When it comes to commercial product photography, the aim is to showcase the product in the best possible light. The only way to do this is to have your model in the right pose depending on the product.

While lighting and angles play a critical role, the right pose is a must. It is essential that you craft a plan for getting the best shot.

Let your model see images of poses beforehand and take the time to use focal points so that your model is looking in the right direction. Always ensure that you take into consideration the product itself when trying to get the best pictures possible.

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