Posing tips: What Do I Do With My Hands? How to Look (and Feel) Amazing in Senior Photos and Headshots

Let’s be honest: most people don’t love being in front of the camera. One of the most common things I hear from clients before a session is, “I have no idea what to do with my hands!” (or face, or feet, or smile). If that’s you, let me just say: you’re not alone.

And better yet? With me, you as your photographer for life, you don’t have to worry about any of that.

I’m a posing ninja. (True story.) I guide my clients every step of the way using a mix of organic, natural direction, and intentional posing that looks effortless and feels like you. Whether you want to look like you stepped out of a magazine or you just want to capture real, honest moments with the people you love, I’ve got you.

Confidence is part of the experience.

What makes people feel amazing in photos isn’t perfect cheekbones or runway-ready outfits. It’s confidence. It’s the comfort of knowing you’re in good hands. My job is to create that comfort for you from the very beginning – and to give you just enough guidance so you never feel lost or awkward.

When we work together, I help you:

Know exactly how to stand, sit, smile, or smolder
Create connection with the camera (or your partner or family) through small prompts that get big emotion
Look and feel amazing with gentle coaching and a dose of fun

Real talk: you don’t need to be a model.

You just need someone who knows how to see you, how to light you, and how to pose you in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable. That’s my specialty. I blend soft, natural light with bold, dramatic off-camera light, so every image feels like art.

You deserve to feel beautiful – not just in your photos, but during the entire experience.

Ready to feel confident in front of the camera?

I offer sessions all across Tucson, but also travel to Phoenix and across the U.S. and abroad for clients who want legacy-level imagery. Whether you’re planning a wedding, elopement, or just want to celebrate this season of life, let’s talk.

Here are some quick posing tips on What Do I Do With My Hands? applicable for solo photos like business headshots and branding sessions, as well as high school senior pictures.

Try resting your head, neck, or chin in your hand while propping your elbow on a nearby wall, railing, or on your knee with your legs crossed.
Do the “boss cross” – cross your arms over your chest and turn to the side for a fun angle, or stay facing the camera with legs wide for a bolder look.
Put your hands on your hips or in your pockets – this separates your arms from your body and can help make your arms look more slender in photos.
When seated, cross your arms at the wrist and let them dangle in front of you. Turn to the side to avoid the hands being at the forefront of the image.
When seated, if facing front, pop a knee and fold your hands over your knee for a more relaxed pose.

Want to take the guesswork out of posing? Want a photographer who knows her stuff and won’t let you feel or look awkward in photos? That’s me! Fill out my contact form to get in touch or text me at 610-662-1823. Also check out my Instagram gallery for some real client magic.

Thank you for reading Posing tips: What Do I Do With My Hands? How to Look (and Feel) Amazing in Senior Photos and Headshots

: ) Jacquelynn