Whether you're planning an engagement session, couples photoshoot, branding session, family portraits, or an editorial photoshoot, one question comes up every single time:

"What if I'm awkward in front of the camera?"

The good news? Almost everyone feels that way.

You do not need to know how to pose like a model. In fact, the best photographs rarely come from perfect poses—they come from genuine movement, natural interaction, and feeling comfortable enough to be yourself.

As an editorial photographer in Chicago, New York, and Peoria, IL, my goal isn't to make you look posed—it's to help you look like the best version of yourself.

Before Your Photoshoot:

Get Plenty of Sleep

A good night's sleep makes a bigger difference than almost any skincare product.

You'll look:

• More refreshed

• More energized

• More relaxed

• Less puffy around the eyes

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your session.

Hydrated skin photographs beautifully and naturally.

Don't Try Anything New

Avoid:

• New skincare products

• Spray tans

• Haircuts the day before

• Hair color appointments at the last minute

• Cosmetic procedures immediately before your session

If something reacts unexpectedly, there's very little anyone can do to fix it.

Choose Outfits That Feel Like You

The best outfits are the ones you feel confident wearing.

Look for:

• Neutral colors

• Earth tones

• Rich textures

• Timeless pieces

• Well-fitted clothing

Avoid(unless specified by your photographer):

• Large logos

• Busy patterns

• Neon colors

• Wrinkled clothing

• Clothes that constantly need adjusting

Coordinate—Don't Match (unless specified)

If you're photographing with your partner or family:

Instead of everyone wearing white shirts and jeans...

Think:

• Similar color palette

• Different textures

• Layers

• Complementary colors

This creates depth and looks much more natural.

Iron Everything

Wrinkles are much easier to prevent than remove later.

This includes:

• Dresses

• Shirts

• Suits

• Veils

• Ribbons

• Pocket squares

Clean the Details

People often forget the small things.

Before your session:

✓ Clean your engagement ring

✓ Trim or clean fingernails

✓ Charge hearing aids if applicable

✓ Remove hair ties from wrists

✓ Empty bulky pockets

✓ Clean glasses

These tiny details make a surprisingly big difference in close-up photographs.

What to Bring

Depending on your session, consider bringing:

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Water

• Lip balm

• Powder for shine

• Hairbrush

• Extra lipstick

• Safety pins

• Lint roller

• Jacket or blanket for cooler weather

The Biggest Secret About Posing

You don't need to know how.

Seriously.

One of the most common things clients tell me is:

"We're terrible at taking pictures."

I've never believed them.

My job is to guide you every step of the way.

You won't be expected to stand still and smile at the camera for an hour.

Instead, I'll give you simple prompts and natural direction that create genuine moments.

The Best Poses Don't Feel Like Poses (Unless it's Fashion)

Instead of thinking about posing...

Think about movement.

Examples include:

• Walking together

• Talking

• Holding hands

• Laughing

• Dancing

• Looking at each other

• Playing with your dress

• Fixing a tie

• Running

• Spinning

• Cuddling

• Forehead touches

Movement creates emotion.

Emotion creates memorable photographs.

Relax Your Hands

Hands are one of the biggest giveaways that someone feels uncomfortable.

Try to avoid:

• Clenched fists

• Straight fingers

• Pressing arms tightly against your body

Instead:

• Lightly touch your partner

• Hold hands naturally

• Put a hand in your pocket

• Play with your hair

• Hold your bouquet gently

Soft hands always photograph better.

Good Posture Changes Everything

A few simple adjustments make a huge difference.

Think:

• Shoulders relaxed

• Chin slightly forward

• Stand tall

• Weight on one leg

• Slight bend in your elbows and knees

Avoid standing perfectly straight like you're taking a driver's license photo.

Trust the Process

Sometimes the pose feels ridiculous.

It probably looks incredible.

Professional photographers see angles differently than you do.

If I ask you to lean a little farther...

Turn your shoulders...

Or look somewhere that feels random...

There's a reason.

Trust me.

Don't Worry About Looking at the Camera

Some of the most beautiful photographs happen when you aren't looking into the lens.

Look at:

• Your partner

• The scenery

• Your hands

• The horizon

Natural interaction almost always beats forced smiles.

Genuine Emotion Always Wins

You don't have to laugh on command.

Instead:

Talk.

Tell stories.

Whisper inside jokes.

Reminisce about your first date.

Dance to your favorite song.

The goal isn't to fake happiness.

It's to create real moments.

Engagement Session Tips

If you're planning engagement photos:

• Schedule around sunset for the best light

• Choose meaningful locations

• Bring a second outfit if you'd like variety

• Wear comfortable shoes between locations

• Don't overthink posing

Treat it like a date.

Editorial Photoshoot Tips

If you're planning an editorial or fashion-inspired session:

Focus on:

• Strong posture

• Intentional movement

• Clean lines

• Elegant hand placement

• Confident expression

Less is often more.

Small movements create dramatic photographs.

Hair & Makeup Tips

Professional hair and makeup are never required—but they do photograph beautifully.

If you choose professional services:

• Schedule a trial beforehand

• Avoid heavy SPF that can cause flashback

• Bring your lipstick for touch-ups

• Choose a style that still feels like you

What If It Rains?

Don't panic.

Some of the most beautiful photographs happen in:

• Light rain

• Fog

• Snow

• Wind

• Overcast skies

Weather often creates atmosphere that sunshine simply can't.

What to Expect During Your Photoshoot

We'll spend our time:

• Walking

• Talking

• Laughing

• Exploring

• Taking breaks

• Finding beautiful light

• Capturing genuine moments

The goal is never perfection.

The goal is connection.

Quick Photoshoot Checklist

Before you leave:

✓ Steam your outfit

✓ Clean your shoes

✓ Charge your phone

✓ Drink water

✓ Eat beforehand

✓ Bring touch-up makeup

✓ Clean your ring

✓ Remove hair ties

✓ Empty pockets

✓ Relax

Final Thoughts

The best photos aren't created by perfect poses.

They're created when you feel comfortable enough to forget the camera is even there.

Whether you're planning an engagement session, couples photoshoot, branding session, family portraits, or editorial photography, remember this:

You don't have to know what you're doing.

That's my job.

As an editorial photographer serving Chicago, New York, and Peoria, IL, I guide every client through natural posing, flattering movement, and authentic moments that feel effortless. My goal is to create timeless, magazine-worthy images that reflect who you are—not just what you look like.

If you're ready to book a luxury editorial photoshoot, engagement session, or wedding photography experience, I'd love to help you create photographs that you'll treasure for years to come.

BOOK YOUR NEXT PHOTOSHOOT

Alexandra Sasha Muller

AN EDITORIAL EXPERIENCE DESIGNED FOR YOU

Contact

AlexandraSashaMuller@gmail.com

+1 (347) 557 3872

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