The Best Posing Tips for Beginner Photographers (Including My Favorite Hack!)

When I first started out behind the camera, one of the biggest things I struggled with was remembering how to pose my clients. I’d spend hours on Pinterest collecting ideas — natural couples poses, candid maternity shots, editorial looks — but the second I was in the moment, my mind went completely blank. If that sounds like you, don’t worry — you’re not alone. Today I’m sharing one of my favorite posing tips for beginner photographers that helped me look confident and stay in control without ever pulling out my phone mid-shoot.

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The Problem: Pose Overload

As beginner photographers, we often feel pressure to memorize every pose, angle, and prompt. But the truth is, when you’re just getting started, it’s really easy to get overwhelmed and lose your train of thought.

I didn’t want to fumble with my phone or have to stop the session to scroll Pinterest. It felt awkward and unprofessional. So I created a system that helped me stay prepared while still being present with my clients — and no one ever knew I was referencing anything at all.

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My Go-To Posing Trick for Beginner Photographers

Here’s my favorite hack that changed everything for me — and why it’s one of the best posing tips for beginner photographers just starting out:

1. Collect your pose inspiration from Pinterest. Save images that speak to your style and client vibe — think movement, emotion, and connection.
2. Create a collage on Canva. Add your inspiration photos into a grid and type out short prompts next to each one like “foreheads together,” “walking hand in hand,” or “look back over shoulder.”
3. Display the collage on your laptop screen.
4. Before your shoot, format your memory card and use your camera to take a photo of each page of the collage.
5. During the shoot, you can review your “poses” by looking at the back of your camera — it just looks like you’re reviewing the photos you already took, not referencing a cheat sheet!

I also made a TikTok about it if you are visual learner!
My lil cheat sheet for poses and prompts
Cheat sheet tutorial

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Why This Works

This simple technique worked so well for me because it gave me the confidence and freedom to focus on capturing emotion and connection, not panicking about what pose to do next.

• It looks professional — your client thinks you’re just reviewing their images.
• It’s faster than reaching for your phone or printed notes.
• It keeps your ideas visually front and center — perfect if you’re a visual learner like me.

If you’re a beginner photographer, this is one of those posing tips that feels small but makes a big difference in your confidence and session flow.

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Bonus Posing Tips for Beginner Photographers

• Keep your prompts simple and repeatable. Use action words like “walk,” “snuggle,” “whisper,” or “twirl” to get clients moving naturally.
• Organize your cheat sheets by session type. For example: couples, maternity, solo portraits, or families.
• Update your guides as you grow. Eventually, you’ll start incorporating your own signature poses and shots!

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Final Thoughts

If you’re just starting out, try this trick at your next shoot. It’s easy to set up, totally free, and helps you feel calm, prepared, and professional.

It’s one of those posing tips for beginner photographers that I wish someone had shared with me earlier — so I’m passing it on to you.

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Comment Below!

Have a posing trick or favorite prompt that helps you during shoots? Share it in the comments or DM me on Instagram — I love hearing what’s working for other photographers!

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