What If I Don’t Know How to Pose?
A More Natural Approach to Senior Portraits
One of the most common things seniors say when they show up to a session:
“I don’t know what to do with my hands.”
Or: “I’m worried I’ll look awkward.”
Or just: “I’m not good at posing.”
The good news? You don’t need to be.
The idea that you need to “know how to pose” for a photo session is outdated. Some of the most genuine portraits come from quiet moments — walking, talking, laughing, or just existing in a space that feels familiar.
For senior portraits, especially, there’s no need to perform. The goal isn’t to look perfect. It’s to feel like yourself — and to see that reflected back.
What a Senior Session Really Looks Like
Recently, I worked with a graduating senior from UTC’s softball team. We started the session on campus, moving through a few meaningful locations as she shared stories about her time at school — classes, teammates, the energy of the past few years. It wasn’t scripted or posed in a rigid way. Just a conversation, some natural movement, and time to settle into the rhythm of the shoot.
Later, we drove a few minutes down the road to Frost Stadium — where she played all her home games. After taking portraits in front of the entrance, we stepped onto the field. The space felt quiet, familiar, and full of memory. It was more than just a backdrop. It was part of her story.
Photography Rooted in Movement
A lot of people expect senior photos to be about perfect posture or nailing the right angle. But the truth is, most of those “perfect” images come from motion — not stillness.
That’s why I keep sessions moving.
Not in a rushed way, but in a grounded, natural rhythm. Walking. Turning. Pausing. Laughing. Adjusting a jacket. A real moment, unfolding in real time.
When your body has something to do and your mind isn’t fixated on the lens, your personality has room to come through. And that’s where the strongest images live — in those unscripted, unguarded moments.
If You’re Feeling Nervous, You’re Not Alone
The idea of being photographed can feel strange at first. Most people don’t step in front of a camera every day. But if you’re someone who’s worried about how to pose or how to “look good” — know that you’re not the only one. And also: it’s not your job to figure that out.
A good photographer will guide you.
Not just in how to move, but in how to feel grounded and comfortable while doing it.
Senior photos don’t have to feel stiff or performative.
They can feel real — and they can look like you.