This is one of many articles I’ll post for those of you interested in producing your own content. My focus will be more on working with the models and equipment, than dealing with the legal (2257) stuff.

In my last article I talked about positioning the models head, eyes, eyebrows and jaw. Now lets look at body positions. The possibilities are endless, so I’m not going to try and cover them all. The important thing to understand is what you are trying to achieve with good body position. The goal is to capture what flatters the model and avoid what does not.

While trying to bring out one feature of model, you must also keep your eye on everything else that’s happening with his body. It’s highly unlikely you will get perfection in every shot. But the more you pay attention, the better your results will be. Something as simple as the odd positioning of a hand or foot can have a huge impact on the overall look of the photo.

Having the model cross his arms just below the chest will pop his upper arm and chest muscles. Changing his foot and leg positions can make all the difference in getting good butt. When sitting down, you can get rid of a stomach pooch by telling him to lean back on his hands. Having a model reach up over his head will often give him a thinner waistline. When shooting a profile, have the model put his hand on his stomach so it does not block the view of his dick. These are just a few of the endless list of examples I could offer.

Don’t try to develop a list of stock body positions. Instead look for positions that flatter the model you are working with. It’s your job to bring out the best in him, and a stock set of positions will not do that.

Also keep in mind that your position in relation to the subject can produce different results. Don’t be afraid to get up on a stepladder and shoot down on him, or get down low and shoot up. You would be surprised what a difference extreme camera angles can make.

There are no rules here. It’s all about having a good eye, paying attention to details, and using your creativity by experimenting. As long as you are sharpening these skills your results will get better and better. The great thing about digital photography is the film is free.