An umbrella used as a prop.

If you’ve ever had to stand or sit still for a photo (and who hasn’t), then you’ve probably faced the dilemma of what to do with your hands. Do you let them hang next to your thighs, place them in your lap or put them behind your back. It would serve you well to remember this next time you’re taking photos of other people because they’ll probably be wondering the same thing.

Introducing a prop of some kind to the scene can make a big difference as it gives your subject something to hold on to. You don’t need anything elaborate but if you can find an object that the subject can relate to in some way, it’ll make for a more natural looking portrait.

Simple props that relate to the subject should be easy to find. If you’re photographing a student, have them hold a book, pen or some glasses. Athlete – dumbbells or a ball. Musician – instrument or an iPod. Computer geek – netbook. Outdoors type – backpack or hiking pole. Chef – food. And so forth.

Adding these props makes the subject feel more comfortable which results in better photographs. For some added life, start a conversation with them about the prop. Getting your subject talking will often remove any remaining inhibitions or awkwardness.

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Sheri poses for a portrait. Her face and body are placed to one side of the frame making for a stronger composition.

When photographing people one of the most difficult things is often knowing how to pose them and where to position them in the image. Many people make the mistake of placing the subject directly in the center of the frame, with a lot of excess space around the edges. This is best avoided – it doesn’t really attract the viewer and hold their interest.

Try placing your subject off-center. In the above photograph, I have Sheri placed to the right hand side of the photo, with her face approximately one-third of the way into the frame. This creates a more desirable aesthetic due to the stronger and more interesting composition I’ve chosen. Give it a try on your family and friends and see for yourself.

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