Couples Photoshoot Assignment Posing Ideas
Do you have an upcoming photo assignment where you have to shoot a couple? Don’t feel like a strong poser?
This article will help!
We asked our Markit Model, Alexi for help on this one. She and her boyfriend modelled for us at the Whitby lake. Lucky for us, the sun was shining and the weather was nice and warm. We chose this location as the ideal spot for couple photos because it has diverse elements (nature, water, lighthouse, old restaurant exteriors, stoney water shores - an overall great spot to bring a couple in love!
Your location is very important in the same way posing is. Both elements together create impact and emotion. We’ll share a few ideas we tried on this shoot that you can use. We’re positive it’ll get you a great mark!
First thing: location
When it comes to photographing couples - locations matter. These photos will be with you forever and represents a very important milestone in ones life - engagement & marriage. We think the scenery should match the beauty of the couple. Here are some helpful tips on how to choose the best location:
Find locations with diverse elements (nature, water, walking paths, etc.)
Find locations that have interesting and tall structures
Find locations that have different levels of elevations (makes for an interesting backdrop)
Find locations with long walking paths (for walking shots)
Talk to the couple first: clothing, accessories, hair and comfort levels
Being prepared is critical to the success of your shoot. Communicating with your couple before the shoot helps you understand the theme or look the couple wants to achieve. And equally important, you will understand their level of comfort when it comes to being photographed in public - are they reserved? free spirited? unbothered by passersby? All this information is good to know as it will help guide your shoot and meet your client (models) needs.
It’s best to have these conversations early so your couple can prepare themselves. This ensures they have enough time to decide on how they want to be portrayed, and make any important wardrobe or makeup purchases before shoot day.
POSE #1: Walking
This is a classic pose you see a lot in couples photography. Its goal is to show movement and handholding. The great thing about this posing technique is how versatile you can be with their hands. You can handhold, hug their arm, kiss their hand, walk-hug, lean your head on their upper-arm while you hug their arm - there are many different ways to photograph a walking scene. You can get some of your most intimate, natural looking photos from this pose alone - don’t miss doing it!
POSE #2: Activity
Help your couple loosen up their nerves by making them complete an activity. This also works as a benefit to you (the photographer)because you now have a little more time to think about your next photo spot. Additionally, their interactions between each other helps you figure out how they smile, joke and look at each other. You can also get a sense of their movements and mannerisms and decide how you want to use this in your next pose.
We asked our models to skip rocks into the lake for their activity - it’s simple and an easy way to get natural, happy interactions. We highly recommend this pose!
Couple standing near shore of Whitby lake skipping rocks
POSE #3: Piggy Back
For couples who are more playful, you can suggest they give their partner a piggy back ride. It’s a chance to capture movement, expressive emotions and closeness. Just like the walking pose, this is also very versatile. You can add intimate gestures like kissing to the mix. Accessories like sun hats adds interest - don’t forget to suggest this to your model!
POSE #4: Landscape Portrait
As we discussed previously, location matters. If you don’t have a nice background then landscape won’t always be the best choice. Because our location was at the Whitby lake - our scenery included lighthouses and water. We made use of this beautiful backdrop by positioning our couple at the far left of our lens, while a lighthouse is visible in the distant background. It’s a personal favourite for us!
POSE #5: Sitting
We love to sit and chances are so does your couple! It can get tiring always walking around or being playful for the camera. Don’t dismiss a bench or picnic table at your location - they can be very helpful. Not only do they provide temporary relief but you can play around with different angles and honestly, it’s perfect for photographing couples enjoying a quick snack like ice cream.
