in the posing. Finally, I look into the eyes of the client to see how well they
reflect light, which is especially important outdoors.
4. Plan the Clothing Changes.
If we will be doing full-length shots, I determine which outfits will look best
(and check for matching shoes). I also look for which outfits will be best for
the head-and-shoulders poses. I then write down the order of the clothing
changes based on where each outfit will look best. That way, no time is wasted
going back and forth from scene to scene or having the client change back
into an outfit they have already worn. We allow each client to change twice
to avoid wasting too much time (and I typically work with two clients at a
time, so I’m photographing one client while the other client is changing).
5. Discuss the Strategy.
Once the client has changed into to her first outfit and the lighting and cam-
era position are set up, I take a few minutes to talk about how I will photo-
graph her. Here’s what I say—word for word.
120 JEFF SMITH’S POSING TECHNIQUES FOR LOCATION PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY
One of the positive comments we always get
from our clients is that our images make
people look relaxed and natural.