I want to improve poses for my models

[big_apple_ken]

I just recently started to shoot people and one thing that I find is a major problem is the fact that my model's poses seem awkward. I'm thinking I can probably just remember a ton of poses (I downloaded that file online with a ton of photos of poses) but what might be more effective is understanding what makes a good pose to begin with. My goal is just to be more confident when commanding the model on what pose to make. I'm confident in a lot of aspects during the shoot but the poses really get me.

Anyone can point me to some good online resources (POTN threads or other sites) or maybe if that's not possible I'll buy a book and read it. Thanks!

[sacral]

Where is this file you speak of? I think I need it...

Some advice - look through glamour magazines and stuff like that - Cosmo, Vogue, etc - and if you see a pose you like, snap a shot of it with your cellphone, or cut it out. Or scour the interwebs...

[big_apple_ken]

I hear what you are saying. Honestly, I can just do a search for 'model' on Flickr and kind of copy what they are doing. The thing is I'm curious if there is so formula/logic behind what makes a good pose...'good'. Expressions are also important too. I'm curious if I should try to look at the poses from a model's perspective and then incorporate the good ones into my shoot.

Here's the file I'm talking about http://polisphotography.com/Document...web/posing.pdf

[Anke]

I hear what you are saying. Honestly, I can just do a search for 'model' on Flickr and kind of copy what they are doing. The thing is I'm curious if there is so formula/logic behind what makes a good pose...'good'. Expressions are also important too. I'm curious if I should try to look at the poses from a model's perspective and then incorporate the good ones into my shoot.

Here's the file I'm talking about http://polisphotography.com/Document...web/posing.pdf

Link doesn't work, have you typed it correctly?

[Cvdeco16]

Here's the link (http://polisphotography.com/Documents/Imagesforweb/posing.pdf)

[Anke]

Here's the link (http://polisphotography.com/Documents/Imagesforweb/posing.pdf)

Thanks.

[big_apple_ken]

Sorry my bad. Yes, that's the link.

[scorpio_e]

Hey Ken
If you are working with a skilled model, they know how to pose. All you need to do is compose :)
I have worked with inexperienced models and faced the same trouble. Its difficult for me to direct and for them to follow direction. They also tend to use the same pose over and over an over.

Anyway I always bring an inspiration sheet with me( Printed out 3X5 or contact sheet on regular cheapo paper). It is a group of poses that I like and I feel would work for that model. If I run out of ideas or the model has trouble with poses, I bring out my inspiration sheet.
The inexperienced models really appreciate this :) At least so far *LOL*