London Photographer Tips For Mens Photo Shoots

Position yourself for success

A man needs a photo to capture his style

If there’s one thing nearly all successful leaders, CEOs, coaches, and entrepreneurs have in common

– it’s the right body language.  The way you stand or sit communicates confidence, or the lack of it, and can convince people to place their trust in you or make them walk away.

In today’s fast-paced professional world, creating a strong and memorable personal brand is essential for making lasting impressions. One powerful tool in achieving this is through high-quality professional branding photography. It’s not just about snapping a photo; it’s about capturing your unique essence and personality.

So, let’s dive into some photoshoot ideas that will make you stand out.

A man wearing a suit and tie looking at the camera
Below are some tips from our guide:

When it comes to guys’ photoshoots, it’s all about the details. Every element contributes to creating that sharp and polished look, from outfit selection to body language. With the right guidance, you’ll be able to showcase your best features and exude confidence in front of the camera.

A Few Quick Posing Tips

In order to ensure a successful photoshoot, there are several key aspects that every man should consider before stepping in front of the camera. From selecting the right outfits to grooming tips and effective communication with the photographer. Preparation is essential. In this section, I will guide you through the important steps to ensure you are fully prepared for your upcoming photoshoot.

Choosing Comfortable and Stylish Outfits

One of the most crucial elements of a great photoshoot is selecting outfits that reflect your style and make you feel comfortable and confident. When choosing your wardrobe, keep in mind the theme or concept of the shoot, as well as the location and anticipated weather conditions. Whether it’s a casual look or a formal attire, make sure your outfits flatter your body type and complement your features. Experiment with different styles, colours, and textures to add depth and variety to your photos.

Selecting Props to Reflect Your Personality

Props can add an extra layer of interest and personality to your photoshoot. Choose props that reflect your hobbies, interests, or profession, as they can help tell a story and create a unique atmosphere in your images. Props from musical instruments to sports equipment can add depth and authenticity to your shots. Remember that the props should enhance the overall composition and complement your outfits rather than overshadowing or distracting from the main focus of the photos.

A man sitting at a table

The Importance of Grooming: Hair and Beyond

Grooming plays a significant role in portraying a polished, put-together look in photographs. Ensure you have a fresh haircut that suits your face shape and style. Pay attention to facial hair grooming, whether a clean-shaven look or a well-maintained beard. Additionally, consider the overall presentation of your skin, nails, and teeth. A healthy and radiant appearance can greatly enhance the overall outcome of your photoshoot. Don’t forget to moisturize your skin, trim your nails, and maintain good dental hygiene.

Communicating With the Photographer Pre-Session

Clear and effective communication with your photographer ensures your vision aligns with theirs. Before the photoshoot, have a conversation with your photographer to discuss your expectations, preferences, and any specific shots or poses you would like to incorporate. This will help the photographer understand your goals and capture your personality in the best possible way. Don’t hesitate to share your ideas and any concerns you may have. Good communication will foster a positive working relationship and result in stunning photographs that truly represent you.

Mastering Your On-Camera Presence

In order to create captivating photos, it’s essential for guys to master their on-camera presence. Understanding key techniques and adopting the right mindset can elevate your photoshoots to the next level. In this section, I’ll share some valuable tips and tricks that will help you relax your gaze, reduce tension in your pose and expression, and enhance your on-camera presence. Let’s dive in.

Relaxing Your Gaze: Looking Past the Lens

One of the keys to a compelling photo is to relax your gaze and look beyond the lens. When you focus your eyes just slightly past the camera, it creates an engaging and authentic effect. It allows your gaze to appear more natural and draws the viewer into the image. Doing this will create a sense of connection and intrigue, making your photos more memorable.

Remember, the camera is not your enemy. Instead, think of it as a window into the world you want to portray. By looking past the lens, you’ll exude confidence and ease, resulting in powerful and captivating photographs.

Reducing Tension in Your Pose and Expression

Tension in your pose and expression can detract from the overall impact of your photos. To reduce tension, it’s important to focus on relaxation and fluidity. Start by taking a deep breath and releasing any tension in your body. Relax your shoulders, jaw, and facial muscles.

Remember that subtle adjustments can make a big difference when it comes to posing. Avoid stiff and rigid positions. Instead, aim for a relaxed and natural posture. Loosen your joints and limbs, and allow your body to move with ease. A relaxed pose will convey confidence and authenticity, creating a more engaging and appealing image.

In addition to your pose, your facial expression plays a crucial role in conveying emotion. Avoid forced smiles or expressions. Instead, focus on genuine emotions and let them shine through. Think about something that makes you genuinely happy or brings a sense of serenity. By tuning into your emotions, your expression will appear more natural and captivating in the photos.

A man sitting on a table

Male Model Poses That Enhance Your On-Camera Presence

Consider incorporating male model poses into your repertoire to enhance your on-camera presence. Below are a few examples:

  1. Power Stance: Stand tall with your legs slightly apart, exuding confidence and strength.
  2. Shoulder Lean: Leaning slightly forward or backward can create a dynamic and captivating pose.
  3. Hand Placement: Experiment with placing your hands in pockets, crossing your arms, or resting them on your hips for variety and intrigue.
  4. Profile Shot: Turn your head to the side to create an elegant, timeless look.
  5. Casual Lean: Leaning against a wall or object can add a relaxed and effortless vibe to your photos.

Remember, the key is to infuse your own personality into each pose. Experiment with different angles, postures, and expressions to find what works best for you. Embrace your individuality and let it shine in front of the camera.

To illustrate these techniques, take a look at the stunning example below:

A man sitting on a leather couch
TechniqueDescription
Relaxing Your GazeLooking beyond the lens to create a natural and engaging effect.
Reducing Tension in Your Pose and ExpressionCreating a relaxed and authentic posture and facial expression.
Male Model PosesExperimenting with different poses to enhance your on-camera presence.

Understanding Male Body Language in Photos

When it comes to creating impactful photos, understanding male body language is crucial. Body language can convey confidence, strength, and personality, adding depth and authenticity to the images.

Embracing Masculine Ruggedness in Movement

One way to enhance the overall look in photoshoots is by embracing a masculine and rugged movement. This can be achieved through subtle shifts in pose and expression, showcasing a sense of raw energy and dynamism.

“By allowing your body to move naturally and freely, you can capture a ruggedness that conveys a robust and masculine presence in your photos. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles and poses to achieve your desired look.”

By incorporating movement into your photoshoots, whether through walking, running, or action-oriented poses, you can add an element of authenticity and vitality to the images. This movement brings life to the photographs, creating visually engaging and captivating shots.

Angular Poses to Showcase Strength and Form

Angular poses are another effective technique for showcasing strength and form in male subjects. Angular poses create bold lines and angles in the body, accentuating muscle definition and physicality.

Here are some examples of angular poses that can make a powerful impact in photos:

  1. Leaning against a wall with one leg bent, showcasing a strong silhouette.
  2. Crossing arms and standing tall, exuding confidence and authority.
  3. Resting one hand on the hip, accentuating the shape of the body.
  4. Looking over the shoulder, creating depth and intrigue.

By incorporating these angular poses into your photoshoots, you can highlight strength, form, and masculinity, creating visually striking images that leave a lasting impression.

“Remember, the key is to find poses that feel natural and comfortable to you. While guidance from a professional photographer can be helpful, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your unique style.”

A man wearing a suit and tie walking down the street

Dynamic Standing and Sitting Poses for Guys

In this section, I will share a variety of dynamic standing and sitting poses that guys can use in their photoshoots. These poses will enhance their presence and create visually captivating images. Below, I will provide step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving each pose.

Standing Poses:

  1. Confident Stride: Stand tall with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Step forward with one foot, angling it slightly to the side. Place your hands comfortably in your pockets, or let them hang naturally by your sides.
  2. Power Stance: Plant your feet shoulder-width apart and slightly bend your knees. Place your hands on your hips or let them hang loosely. Tilt your chin slightly upwards to exude confidence.
  3. Leaning Against a Wall: Find a wall or a solid structure to lean against. Place one hand on the wall, slightly resting your weight on it. Keep the other hand relaxed by your side. Lean casually with one shoulder against the wall while maintaining a relaxed posture.

Sitting Poses:

  1. Casual Crossed Legs: Sit on the edge of a chair or a bench, crossing one leg over another. Keep your back straight and relax your shoulders. You can place your hands on your thighs, interlace your fingers, and rest them on your knee.
  2. Laid-Back Lounge: Find a comfortable sitting spot, such as a sofa or a step. Lean back slightly and extend your legs in a relaxed manner. Place your hands on your lap or use them to support your body weight.
  3. Engaged Conversation: Sit facing someone or something of interest. Lean slightly forward and place your arms on the armrests or your thighs. Maintain eye contact and exude an engaging presence.
A man wearing a suit and tie

By practising these standing and sitting poses, guys can add variety and dynamism to their photoshoots. Remember to experiment with different angles, expressions, and locations to create unique and captivating images that reflect your individual style and personality.

Creative Use of Accessories and Clothing in Guys Photoshoot

In order to create visually stunning and impactful photos, it’s essential for guys to explore the creative use of accessories and clothing in their photoshoots. Incorporating props and manipulating fabrics can add personality and artistic effects to their images, resulting in captivating visual narratives.

The Prop That Adds Personality: Introducing Items Into the Frame

One creative way to enhance the storytelling aspect of a photoshoot is by introducing props into the frame. Props can range from simple objects like hats, sunglasses, or musical instruments to elaborate items that reflect a specific theme or concept. The props you choose should align with your personality or the overall mood you want to convey in the photos. They can provide context to the image and give viewers a glimpse into your character and interests.

When selecting props, consider their size, colour, and texture to ensure they complement your outfit and the overall composition of the shot. Experiment with different arrangements and positions to find the most visually appealing setup. Remember, props should enhance the photo, not overpower it, so strike a balance between their impact and your natural presence.

By incorporating props into your photoshoot, you can add depth, interest, and a touch of creativity to your images, providing viewers with a unique and memorable visual experience.

Manipulating Fabrics and Materials for Artistic Effect

Another way to elevate the artistic quality of your photos is by manipulating fabrics and materials. Get creative with the way you use clothing items, such as draping a jacket over your shoulder or playing with the movement of a scarf. By manipulating fabrics, you can add visual interest, texture, and a sense of dynamism to your shots.

Experiment with different fabrics that suit the mood and concept of your photoshoot. Draping fabrics achieve a celestial and imaginative quality. In contrast, defined fabrics confer robustness and elegance. Play with how the fabric interacts with light and movement to create visually striking and captivating images.

Remember, manipulating fabrics requires experimenting and taking risks. Be open to trying new poses and movements to showcase the artistic effect you want to achieve. Don’t be afraid to play with different shapes, lines, and dynamics. The goal is to create images that evoke emotions, tell stories, and leave a lasting impact.

A close up of a man

Final thoughts

As we come to the end of this article, let’s recap the key points we’ve covered to help you achieve a sharp look in your photoshoots. From the moment you start preparing for the session, remember to choose comfortable and stylish outfits that flatter your body type. Select props that reflect your personality and enhance the narrative of your photos, and don’t forget the importance of grooming – from your hair to the smallest details.

Mastering your on-camera presence is crucial. Relax your gaze and look past the lens, reducing tension in your pose and expression. Experiment with male model poses to enhance your overall appearance and create captivating images.

Understanding male body language will further elevate the impact of your photos. Embrace masculine ruggedness in your movement and try angular poses to showcase your strength and form. And don’t forget to incorporate dynamic standing and sitting poses to add variety and visual interest to your portfolio.

A man wearing a suit and tie

How We Can Help You

Preparation is KEY, our guides will help you prepare for your photo shoot session

GET OUR FREE GUIDES

STYLE GUIDES

Our Style Guide will help you choose the right outfits for your photo session.

POSING GUIDES

Our Posing Guide is full of tips and tricks on how to move and feel confident in front of the camera.


Ready to Start?

Get In Touch

124 City Road
London, EC1V 2NX

Monday – Friday 9AM To 9PM
Saturday – Sunday 9AM To 9PM

Tel: 0207 916 2552

Company
Useful Links

Best Male Pose FAQ’s

What are some effective strategies to elicit the optimal poses from a male model during a fashion photo shoot?

During a photography session, don’t hesitate to ask your model to play around and get you started. Experiment with stylish photo poses for men and consider interesting pose variations to bring out a great pose.

What are some classic male photography poses I can use to start a photoshoot?

To photographing a male subject, consider starting with a model lean, one knee stance or a contrapposto pose. These initial poses can get you started and set the tone for the portrait session.

How can I ensure natural and interesting poses for male portraits?

 To capture interesting pose variations, aim for natural poses by directing the model’s swipe and model look. Position the model at eye level and highlight your male subject’s masculinity in senior portraits.

How should I work with male models to bring out their best poses?

While You’re looking to achieve the ideal pose to start, collaborate with the model to bring out interesting lines and aim for model’s pose looks. Encourage them to play around with their body form.

Use body language and striking imagery to gain a competitive advantage

Contemporary, minimalist headshots are the perfect way to achieve this, coupled with the right body language.  At our London Studios, our photography professionals have developed a complimentary guide to posing for men, that will have you looking more composed than a body language expert, so you can look coolly confident in any situation.

The right pose screams “I’m in control”, the wrong one can cause potential clients to doubt your abilities or professionalism.  Yes, it really is as important as all that, study six-figure income earners, and you’ll quickly discover most have mastered the art of conveying confident posture.

To succeed and thrive these days, you need to stand out online and one of the easiest ways to do this is by creating an instant rapport with your audience through digital photography.

We’ll pick the perfect pose that helps you achieve your goals

People have short attention spans online, and you only have about three seconds to draw them in.  A great photograph, designed to appeal to your target audience, will have ten times the effect endless blog or social media posts could when it comes to creating a connection.

If you know nothing about posing for photographs or feel slightly awkward having your picture taken – don’t worry, we’ll take you through it all on your shoot. From how to sit and stand to strike a note of confidence, to what to do with your hands so they never look out of place, our photographers will use their blend of commercial and fashion expertise to guide you to the right pose.

Need to up your game in the business world?

Don’t miss out on taking your brand to the next level or upping your game on social media so you attract better connections.  Make the visual impact you’ve always wanted to make and open doors to new opportunities, with portraiture that packs a punch and images that inspire.

Whether you need to land that interview for your dream job or want to create an air of professionalism to establish yourself as an expert in your niche, the pose you strike should suit your situation.  With our help, you can enter the top percentile of earners in your field by standing out via a memorable image that draws people to you and helps you form prosperous connections.

Final tip from our professional photographer

WOW! That is a lot to bear in mind, do not let this make you feel overwhelmed. As with everything that is related to photography, the more practice you get, the more natural it will feel. I will keep an eye out for all these details so you can concentrate on your expression and the image you would like to project.

I have also have written a complete posing guide that can help you prepare for your photo shoot experience. You can Download it instantly!