Posing men for photoshoots can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be.

With a little bit of guidance, any photographer can learn how to pose men for photoshoots properly. And you as a man can learn how to be better at posing.

Here are eleven tips from professional photographer Hunter Hobson on how to do just that.

1. Relax the subject’s (your) arms

One of the most common mistakes photographers make when posing with men is to have them keep their arms stiff at their sides. This not only looks unnatural, but it also conveys a sense of tension and unease. Instead, have the subject relax his arms and let them fall naturally by his side. This will instantly make the photo look more relaxed and natural.

Subjects who are free to move around naturally will almost always look more comfortable in photos than those who are simply standing still like statues. That said, it’s important not to let things get too chaotic, after all, this is still a photoshoot! Try to integrate movement into your posing by having your subjects walk toward or away from you or by having them shift their weight from one foot to the other.

2. Use leading lines

Leading lines are an essential compositional tool that can be used to add interest and drama to a photo. When posing men, look for leading lines in the environment and use them to your advantage. For example, if a sidewalk or fence runs perpendicular to the camera, have the subject stand so that he’s straddling the line. This will create a strong leading line that will lead the viewer’s eye into the photo.

3. Play with different heights

Another way to add interest and dimension to your photos is to play with different heights. When posing men, have them sit on a stool or stand on a chair so that they’re at different heights from each other. This will add depth and dimension to the photo and make it more interesting to look at.

4. Get close up shots

When photographing men, don’t be afraid to get close-up shots. This is especially true if you’re shooting portraits. Close-up shots will allow you to capture all the details of your subject’s face, including his expressions and emotions. It will also force the viewer to focus on your subject and not be distracted by anything else in the photo.

5. Use props wisely

Props can be used to add interest and context to your photos, but they should be used wisely. When using props, make sure they complement your subject and add to the story you’re trying to tell with your photo. For example, consider using props such as a briefcase or laptop computer if you’re photographing a businessman. But if you’re photographing a model in a casual setting, items such as sunglasses or a hat might be more appropriate props to use.

6 . Capture different angles

When photographing men, don’t be afraid to try out different angles. Capturing photos from different perspectives can help add interest and variation to your photographs. For example, try getting down low to capture shots from up high instead of taking photos from eye level. This will l give your photos more visual interest and make them more dynamic.

7. Edit, Edit, Edit!

Once you’ve taken all your photos, it’s time to start narrowing them down. The editing process is where you really get to show off your creativity and style. So don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different filters and effects until you find something you like. Then, it’s time to share your stunning photos with the world!

8. Pay attention to lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for any type of photography, but it’s especially important when shooting portraits. The appropriate lighting can make or break a photo, so be sure to experiment until you find what works best .soft, diffused light is usually most flattering for portraits.

9. Make use of negative space

Negative space is the empty space around your subject. Using negative space effectively can help create balance and harmony in your photos. Too much negative space can make a photo feel disjointed and unfinished. Find the right balance for each individual photo.

10. Have your subject interact with their environment

This could mean sitting on a bench, leaning against a wall, or even just walking down the street. Interacting with their surroundings will help your subject look more natural and comfortable in their photos.

11. Get them talking

If your subject looks stiff and uncomfortable, it’s probably because they are. The best way to loosen them up is to get them talking about something they’re passionate about. Ask them about their hobbies, families, pets, and anything that will get them chatting and help them forget they’re being photographed.

Final Thoughts

Finally, don’t forget to pay attention to the little things that can make or break a photo (expressions, closed eyes, bad lighting, etc.). It might seem like a lot of work at first, but once you check for these things before you press the shutter button, it’ll become second nature in no time! Whether you’re just starting in photography or you’ve been shooting for years, these tips should help you take better photos of men every time.

As Hunter Hobson says, practice makes perfect! So get out there and start snapping (or posing) away!