15 Insider Tips For Posing And Photographing Curvy Boudoir Models

boudoirposing tips

Sep 6

How to Master Posing Techniques for Curvy Women: A Comprehensive Guide

Curvy Boudoir Photography Course — Plus Sized Boudoir Photography by Yuliya Panchenko

When it comes to boudoir or portrait photography, understanding the art of posing is crucial. Especially with curvy women, it's important to understand how to use angles, poses, and lighting techniques to enhance and celebrate those curves. In this detailed guide, you will be walked through the essential rules and demonstrations of posing a curvy boudoir model.

Posing Legs

1. Standing Poses: Begin by positioning your subject at a 45-degree angle to the camera. Have her cross one knee over the other and push her hips slightly to the side. This technique emphasizes her hourglass figure. By having her point her toes or even stand on tiptoe, you'll create the illusion of elongated, elegant legs.

2. Seated Poses: Introduce two different types of chairs—a standard chair and a lounge chair. For the standard chair, have your model sit at the edge, with her feet on tiptoe. This elevates her thighs, making them appear thinner. A cross at the ankles can add an elegant touch. However, ensure she isn’t leaning back too much; this can flatten the thighs.

3. Lounge chair: Have your model sit with her legs slid to the side, toes pointed. By leaning forward, the midsection gets elongated, reducing the visibility of any skin folds or rolls.

Laying Poses

4. Side: When lying on the side, have the model bend one knee, pushing it slightly forward. This showcases her curves but be cautious about pushing the leg too forward, as it might create unwanted folds. If this happens, ask the model to stretch a bit or use her arms to cover the midsection.

5. Stomach: When lying on the stomach, bending the knee forward can elevate the backside, emphasizing its curvature.

Posing Hips and Arms

6. Hips: The principle is simple: anything closer to the camera appears larger. So, when posing the hips, push them away from the camera unless you want to accentuate the curve. A curvy model who is comfortable and confident in her body can push her hips towards the camera.

7. Arms: Arms should never be held tight against the body. The goal is to create negative space, or separation. Positioning arms at different levels while ensuring they aren’t close to the body helps. Remember, for closer shots, arms should be kept away from the camera to appear slimmer.

Back, Shoulders, and Face

8. Back: Ensure the model's back remains straight, with a slight arch to accentuate the back's natural curve. Twisting too much can create folds. Even when sitting, maintain a straight posture.

9. Shoulders: Raised shoulders are a common mistake, making the neck appear shorter. Instead, ask your model to relax and lower her shoulders.

10. Face: For a refined jawline, guide her to elongate her neck and bring her chin forward and then down.

Technical Photography Tips for shooting curvy boudoir models

11. Angles and Lighting: Always shoot from slightly above or directly at eye level for curvy women. This slims down the chin and jawline. However, don't hesitate to experiment. Side lighting is recommended as it carves out the subject’s body with shadows (for slimming) and highlights (to accentuate curves).

12. Lens Choice: A 24-70mm zoom lens is ideal. Longer focal lengths can add weight, while wider angles can distort. For curvy models, a range between 35-70mm is best.

13. Posing Surfaces: Opt for firm surfaces for seated or laying poses. Soft surfaces can make your model sink, highlighting areas you may want to downplay.

14. Concealing Techniques: To camouflage midsections or folds, ask the model to stretch her body or use her hands or arms as shields. Props like ropes or fabrics can also come in handy.

15. Image Review: After your session, review the images, noting what worked and what didn’t. This feedback is invaluable for continuous improvement.

Remember, every individual is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Always maintain open communication with your model, ensuring her comfort and confidence shine through in every shot. After all, that’s the essence of a great photograph!