Carol Needham's Lifestyle choices . . .: How to be a Poser!

It's all very well posing for a happy snap when you're doing something, like a sport etc, or even pulling funny faces and poses. But on the occasions when you would like to look your best and not awkward, it can be quite difficult. Especially when you're not sure of the best position to hold our body in. Our instincts tell us to just stand there grinning at the camera, and then complain when we witness the results!

In my experience as a model, it was my job to pose for photographs, looking relaxed and natural. Only it was all fake!

It can be a little bit embarrassing when you're not used to having your photo taken. I felt that way on one of my first photo shoots for The Unipart Calendar. It was taken on a busy street in Los Angeles and I was wearing a see through bikini! So I had to get over my inhibitions very quickly as the light was fading and the photographer was shouting at me to do the photos. So, I understand how uncomfortable it can be when you're posing and aware that people may be staring!
Especially in a public place like in a restaurant or on holiday.
I will share with you a few tips that worked for me and will for you too. Giving you the confidence to strike a pose!

First of all, it will always be more flattering on your body to turn 3/4 away from the camera and then twist your top half back in slightly, while bending your leg that's nearest to the camera.
This will give you a nice shape to your body which slims hips and waist.
This pose works whether you are seated or standing.
It's very simple, but effective, you can automatically just fall into the pose when you need to.
If you are standing next to someone in the photo, try leaning slightly into them while twisting your top half slightly to camera, maybe resting your hand gently on their shoulder.
Do this while remembering to pull your stomach in, relax your shoulders back and bend your front leg, so you have an S shape to your body.
Face wise- again slightly off camera is usually more flattering, with a soft smile and don't forget to smile with your eyes.
Many times when I modelled with young children, I would have to freeze my pose until the child smiled. Because that is the frame the photographer would want and he wouldn't want it of me looking away. This is also good in happy snaps when being snapped with animals or children. Try to hold your pose until they get it right.
Hands can be awkward. I always found it best to keep them looking natural by either resting on hips or an object or someone.
So next time somebody whips out their camera phone - you'll be ready.

I have attached a few images of myself to demonstrate this.