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In the world of photography, we’re used to women striking poses that catch our eyes.
However, male model shots also possess the ability to bring a refreshing style.
So, if you’re stuck on the best ways to create the ultimate photoshoot for your male models, then this guide will walk you through a series of poses.
The list you’ll find below is sorted in different categories and offers amazing glimpses for your viewing pleasure and imagination.
General tips for male portraits.
With the following list, you’ll be armed with timeless photography rules and facts to help you get better at posing models.
Watch the hands
If there’s one thing about men, is that if you don’t find a way to engage their hands, they’ll probably make the picture awkward.
That’s why it’s important to keep them busy by giving directions on how their hands should be.
Watch out for distance/size and length.
As you navigate the waters of model photography, you should be aware of a few things; subjects closer to the camera look bigger and those further away look smaller.
Also, a longer lens flattens depth and makes bigger parts of the body smaller. While a shorter one makes the face rounder and “puffy”
With that said, it’s time to jump into some categories of male poses:
Standing poses
These are the most common types and the easiest to pull off.
Here’s a list of various standing poses you can work with.
Arms crossed, full portrait.
Simple and easy to implement. This pose requires you to direct the model to cross his arms while standing.
He can cross his legs too while putting his weight on one leg or simply stand with his legs apart.
Arms crossed, half portrait.
This pose gives off a very masculine look. If you’re running out of ideas and looking for a pose to spice things up a bit then this is the simplest to try out.
Make sure the model’s shoulders are pulled back so his chest sticks out. Then, shoot with a shorter lens so it appears larger.
Hands in your pockets.
This is a true classic among models you can try out. It’s also popular among actors and musicians.
Depending on the look you’re going for, you can have both hands in the pockets or just a single hand.
Leaning poses
Simple poses that anyone can pull off.
Great choices where the situation requires a specific tone or mood.
The back lean
All you’ve got to do here, is direct your model to lean back to a wall or something he can rest his back on.
This a more relaxed pose and is great for informal portraits.
The side lean
You can get enough of these lean poses right? This pose is simply straightforward. Models can get tired or stiff.
So, you can have them shift their weight to one side by directing them to rest on something.
Lean in
I call this the “political power” pose. Nothing screams “I mean business” like this style.
Not to be confused with other ones, this pose requires the model to lean in toward the camera.
The effect is brilliant by combining it with dark backgrounds, you’re sure to reflect those power vibes in your photos.
Others men photography tips
This set of poses are a great way to channel your creativity in the right direction.
The prop
Props are a great way to tell a story or add weight to the context of a shoot.
They tend to bring life to photos and give your models a natural look.
Action shots
These are the ultimate storytelling poses.
By shooting your models in motion like bouncing a ball or lifting weights, you add more aesthetic value to each shot.
Sitting
The gold standard of casual laid back poses. Probably as old as earth itself.
All you have to do is grab a chair or a couch and get your model to sit comfortably.
Also, ensure you adjust the barrel of the lens to be slightly above eye level.
Well, there you have it. You’re now armed with 9 male poses to create breathtaking photos.