Another quick post, this time with refresh pointers.
Props and movement.
Never be afraid to use a prop, they give the hands something to do while at the same time adding to the content of the photo. The trick is to use a prop that makes sense for what you are trying to do. For example, these were taken in October so it makes sense to have a pumpkin of some sort.
Then there is movement. I always try to have my subjects moving in some fashion or another. It helps make the poses look more natural. Instead of having the muscles clinched up because the subject is trying to “freeze” for a photo, I have their muscles being natural as they do what they do best – control movement.
However, when you take props and mix them in with movement, you or your subject sometimes get ideas for other possible poses you can do so it usually ends up paying off having both.