Stop Posing, Start Prompting

Today, it’s all about being authentic. If you’re scrolling through Instagram or flipping through a magazine, you’re seeing fewer “look and smile” types of poses, and more candid photos. 

During a photoshoot, if you want to try and avoid posed images and guide your subjects to feel more natural in front of the camera, utilize some of the prompts & activities below:

1. Ask them to reenact a collegiate photo - specifically for alumni/alumnae chapters.

Prompt: “I want you to show me how chapters take a photo for Instagram”
Using this prompt gets them laughing because they feel ridiculous doing it, but always reassure that they look great!

2. Have them show you a group pose they do for social media posts.

Prompt (specifically, for collegians, but make sure it is appropriate): “You know that pose you always do in the chapter for your Instagram, reenact that right now!”
This prompt will help your subject feel more comfortable around you and the camera for a more authentic image.

3. Do the walk and talk/walk or a chant.

Prompt: “I want you to start walking and talking to each other. If you can’t think of something to say, do a chant/song!”
Make sure they are looking around, smiling and laughing with one another, not looking at the camera.

4. Have them hugging, high fiving or shaking hands, and then have them say the first thing that pops in their head.

Prompt (say it rapidly, and then snap the photo): “Okay on the count of 3 say the first thing that pops in your head”
This will get a natural laugh and draw a natural laugh that will make the photo more candid.

5. Have them sit facing each other and talking.

Prompt: Give them a scenario such as “What do you plan to do this weekend.” “What was your favorite ZTA memory”.
Say anything that can get them talking and engaging with one another!

5. LOOK AND LAUGH!

Have them do obnoxious laughs out loud, but with a pretty face. Also, try doing it as a library laugh (lots of emotion, but super quiet).

Guest Writer: Kahlie Cannon, Zeta Tau Alpha

Learn more about Kahlie’s work on her website or follow her on Instagram @kahliemae