WHAT DO I DO WITH MY ARMS AND HANDS?


I could write a book on how to pose hands and eyes... it's the photographer's job to not just know poses, but to learn how to build a pose for our brides and grooms.


Here a few pointers so you will feel confident on your wedding day.


THE CIGARETTE POSE


The hands and arms can be used to lead attention to the places we want to highlight. With the cigarette pose, your arms and hands are usually high and close to the body. You are taking up the least amount of space in the frame. It is great for leading the viewer's attention towards the face, but is also very natural and beautiful. With Megan I had her lightly graze the side of her neck with her ring finger while her other arm we put on her side out of sight.


HOLDING SOMETHING


When you hold something it naturally gives your hands something to do, but also brings attention to that object. Here I have Laura holding her dress which is also a beautiful way to lead attention and show it off.


Having your elbow at more than a 90 degree angle gives a more elegant pose than having it at 90 degrees. This is a great alternative to the hand on the hip which can give a more blocky or harsh positioning.


AVOIDING THE "FLOATING HEAD"


Photographers who don't know how to pose the hands and arms often fall into the mistake of what is called the "floating head." It's when you have a close up shot of the face, but no hands and arms in the photo.


You can strategically use hands and fingers to lead attention to where you want with a close up. As you can see, this portrait with Claire does not look forced or rigid even though her hand is in a place that you would not expect. This can enhance a close up portrait in a really beautiful way.