Tricks for seated photography
Turning your body to the side still applies when you're taking a picture sitting down. If you need to get a shot of you sitting, try getting a barstool or another backless chair to sit on. Whichever side of you is closest to the camera--put that leg up on a small box. It gives the pictures a "squared" look and doesn't look like you're being forced to pose in a chair. Elevating your leg about 6 inches makes a big difference. Look at Figure B for an example.

FIGURE B


I'm sitting down in this picture and the photographer is on a stool, standing much higher than my eye level. My leg is propped up on a small milk crate. These shots can turn out great! Roll over picture for a larger image.

Plus-size tips
I wanted to give some "plus-size" tips for people who were wondering the best ways for them to pose in pictures. I asked my plus-sized fashion guru pal, Sandra Jayne, if there was anything I could share with everyone at Connected Photographer. Her advice is listed below.

• Don't keep your arms straight. Bend one or both slightly to avoid making the photo look artificial.

• Try putting your most of your weight on one foot when standing. You can rest one arm on your hip. It can give a slightly slimming effect, and makes your photo look sassy!

• Watch your chin! A chin in a low position can show wrinkles, giving a "double chin" look. Tilt it up a littler higher than you usually do. Don't go too high, or it will look like a mug shot!

Now you have some great advice you can evoke the next time you are getting your picture taken. These tips are for anyone, not just models, and can be applied to anyone of any shape. Be natural, be yourself and be beautiful!

James Booth is Editor-at-Large at ZATZ Publishing. In addition to writing for Computing Unplugged and Connected Photographer, he's the author of Do-It-Yourself Wedding Photography. A self-taught photographer, James also dabbles in digital graphics and has learned to be a PC and handheld specialist through personal trial and error. James can be reached at jbooth@zatz.com.