Quick Answer
Striking the perfect pose showcases clothing to online buyers, influencing sales. This guide teaches models to strategically position their body, outfit, and props during ecommerce photography. Techniques include elongating proportions, guiding viewer eyes to important details, pairing with accessories, and flattering every body. Photographers similarly learn to analyze garments to determine ideal poses, skillfully direct models, and curate aspirational yet approachable fashion vignettes. Together these best practices elevate commercial catalogs from basic presentation to compelling product endorsement. Every element from lighting to post-production should further that core storytelling goal making any apparel item irresistible to customers. Mastering the intentional art of striking an ecommerce pose proves essential for encouraging high conversion.
Introduction
Product photography transforms from amateur to pro when the model strikes a strategic pose. A model who simply stands in place quickly feels dated while thoughtful, purposeful body positioning pulls customers into an aspirational fashion lifestyle fantasy. Capturing compelling product images therefore requires understanding what specifically makes a pose effective.
This comprehensive guide explores the intentional art of model posing for ecommerce apparel brands. Unlike the elongated, dramatic gestures of high fashion editorials, ecommerce instead demands versatile utility. The goal remains attracting online shoppers to click and purchase. Models must showcase garments fully while conveying sociable approachability.
As an e-commerce studio model, how you pose for each garment makes all the difference. And as a photographer, providing clear direction to models and curating flattering poses is a vital skill. This comprehensive guide explores the art and strategy of striking the perfect pose for clothing e-commerce shots.
We will break down fundamental strategies for flattering real bodies, accentuating garment details, allowing integration flexibility and facilitating shoot efficiency. Both studio models and photographers play equal roles in analyzing outfits to determine ideal posing possibilities. This ability to collaboratively build aesthetically strong and commercially useful imagery proves essential in today’s overloaded digital retail marketplace.
By learning and applying this comprehensive collection of posing best practices for ecommerce success, fashion brands can elevate product offerings through relevant lifestyle context. While clothing choices connect self-image with self esteem, transportive product photos that compel consumers towards these garments fuels business profitability. Standing stationary no longer suffices. This guide provides all the tools needed to masterfully strike an ecommerce pose. Read on for expansive advice on effortlessly snapping head-turning product images guaranteed to drive customer conversion.
The Goals of Model Posing
When posing models for e-commerce shots, several key goals should guide each pose:
Showcase the Garment's Assets
The posing first and foremost needs to display the garment in the best possible light. This includes:
Drape: Show how the fabric hangs, moves, and falls over the body
Fit: Highlight the garment's fit and cut for the body type
Details: Draw attention to special details like buttons, stitching, embroidery, etc
Enhance the Body
E-commerce fashion is selling more than just clothing; it’s selling an image and lifestyle. Posing should flatter the model's body proportions:
Elongate the figure
Smooth problem body areas
Emphasize assets like long legs or a slender waist
Enable Product Pairings
Retailers need versatility within their product shoots to enable secondary or accessory product pairings:
Allow space for a handbag, shoes, or other accessory prop integration
Ensure poses work visually with different bottom or top pairings
Thoughtfully crafted poses will achieve all three goals simultaneously.
Developing a Pose Repertoire
Models and photographers should both build diverse pose repertoires tailored specifically to e-commerce needs. This provides options to smoothly vary between shoot sets. Useful categories of poses include:
Standing Full-Length Poses
The model stands in full-length frame. Useful for dresses, pants, coats, etc. Consider playing with:
Foot and leg position
Arm position
Angle of upper body
Head tilt and gaze direction
Seated Poses
Seated poses show off intricate details of tops, dresses and bottoms while providing a more intimate vibe:
Sitting straight on
Angled partial side/back view
Leaning on hands back on arms
Pulling knees to chest
Cropped Body Part Poses
By cropping into body parts, the product details can shine:
Waist Up – great for tops, jackets, jewelry
Hip/Torso Down – highlight skirts, pants, shorts
Just Legs – show off legwear with shoes/accessories
Lying Down Poses
Lying poses showcase soft fabrics in dresses, lingerie and athleisurewear:
On side with arms arranged
On back with knees bent
Face down with torso twisted
Practice fluidly transitioning between these pose types to enable more outfit combinations with each set look.
Executing Standing Full Length Poses
As standing full length poses are the most ubiquitous e-commerce pose, they warrant a deeper look. Follow these best practices for positioning the legs, arms, torso, and face:
Legs: Flatter and Elongate
Mindfully arrange the legs to enhance the look:
Crossed Leg
Crossing one leg in front of the other angled to the side visually slims the hips and rounds the glutes. Avoid letting the hips jut out.
Back Leg Bent
Keep one leg straight bearing the body's weight. Softly bend the back leg and toe it to the floor for a lengthening effect.
Pointing Toes Down
Keep arches lengthened by extending through the toes, avoiding pointing feet which can shorten. Slight toe pointing creates tension.
Widen Stance
Placing feet wider apart in a straddle with front knee slightly bent adds drama. Works well for slit skirts or wide leg pants.
Shift Weight
Subtly shifting more body weight onto the back leg creates curves. Lifting the front heel also slims.
Walking Stride
Mid-walking stride with the front leg crossing over the back leg suggests movement for skirts and dresses.
Arms: Complement the Outfit
Strategic arm placement pulls attention to key details of the garment:
Hands on Hips
The classic hand-on-hip pose works well for cropped and form-fitting tops. Hands should gently rest to avoid tension.
Hold Details
Grasping onto special garment details like side tie straps, a key hole back, or flap pockets puts focus directly on unique elements.
Lift Long Sleeves
Gently pinching fabric to lift extra long sleeves spotlights their cuffs, buttons or hem shape.
Partially Push Up Sleeves
Slightly pushing up the sleeves shows off bracelets while preventing fabric bunching.
Wrap Around Waist
Crossing arms around the natural waistline to grasp at the side seams displays the garment’s waist fit.
Clutch Collar
A hand delicately holding either side of a open shirtfront or collar adds movement.
Torso: Open and Elongate
A lengthened torso shape always proves most figure flattering:
Straight Posture
The neck lifts up as the tailbone slightly tucks, centering the head over the pelvis for balance. Avoid exaggerated arching which foreshortens.
Twist at Waist
Gently pivoting torso diagonally just above the waist adds dimensionality. Works well positioned between front and profile. Lightly holding the twist prevents strain.
Lean Forward at Hips
Tilting hips forward shifts them back under torso which slims the waist. Bend slightly forward from the hips rather than the lower back to avoid compression there.
Crescent Shape
Stretching one side into a side bend or backbend curve contrasts with the compressed opposite side for tension. Avoid overextending the reach which distorts.
Head and Gaze: Complete the Story
Consciously working the position of the head and eyes/gaze creates intrigue:
Chin Down, Eyes Up
Tilting chin down while lifting the eyes shifts focus upwards through the eyelashes in a dramatic fashion.
Eyes Follow Hands
Having the model’s eyes follow the same direction as their hands or prop piece integrates the elements.
Profile View
A direct face forward gaze can seem distant while a stare straight into camera can feel confrontational. The intimacy of a head turned profile view offers an interesting middle ground.
Peer Up Under Brim
Models can shyly peer up under the front edge of a hat brim to stop hiding all facial features.
These strategies for standing full length poses provide strong jumping off points. Be sure to vary positioning between sets and product types to enable versatile image libraries for e-commerce retailers.
Posing for Problem Body Areas
While idealized fashion models make posing look easy, real women struggle with problem body areas they prefer photos flatter rather than spotlight. Clever adjusting of angles and limbs helps downplay less loved parts.
Fuller Upper Arms
Drawing attention upwards away from the upper arms slims:
Stretch both arms overhead, holding onto elbows
Place hands behind head, elbows wide
Reach one arm diagonally across body
Twisting the torso also prevents arm flesh spreading forward.
Short Neck
Stacking the neck and chin vertically with shoulders instead of dropping chin down stretches all vertical space upwards:
Bring chest forwards and widen shoulders back
– Press crown of head to ceiling
Broad Upper Back
Creating space between the arms and rib cage visually narrows breadth:
Open arms 45 degrees out to sides with elbows slightly bent
Place hands on hips bones with elbows back
Reach one arm up to hold the opposite elbow
Narrow Shoulders
Widening the collarbone line adds perceived width:
Open chest with hands on hips
Stretch arms straight out to the sides
Bend elbows back 45 degrees for tension
Large Bust
Directing attention upwards, minimizing front chest exposure and creating waist definition downplays bust:
Position between profile and 3⁄4 view
Hold fabric to angle bust towards one side
Place arms crossed above or below bust
Protruding Belly
Defining the waistline above pulls eyes upwards:
Twist torso above natural waist
Prop elbows or hands on waistline
Wear darker colors on bottom, lighter shades on top
Wide Hips
Drawing the eye out towards the shoulders counters the width below. Try:
Standing in contrapposto with majority of weight on back leg. Pop front hip and knee for a slimming effect.
If seat or thighs are also full, avoid side views. Pose between 3⁄4 and front view.
Position hands on hips bones with elbows pressing back to create shoulder tension
Angle body diagonally to camera and twist upper body open to highlight slimmest torso profile
Shift chin towards near shoulder. Drop furthest shoulder and arm down to minimize breadth
Sit with legs crossed tight to round hip shape
Kneel and sit to one side
Heavy Upper Legs
Creating vertical lines guides eyes down seamlessly:
Cross ankles when standing
Point toes when sitting
Tilt a standing leg inwards at the knee
Avoid seated side views with legs apart
Slim Calves
Deflecting attention out to the feet makes legs look evenly slender:
Flex feet to show tension and strength
Cross ankles to touch calf to calf
Stand facing forward with feet hip width, knees straight
Through careful analysis of each unique figure, strategic posing adjustments can enhance all shapes and sizes. The key for both models and photographers lies first in recognition of proportional challenges, then adapting go-to poses to address those needs. This targeted approach succeeds better than attempting to mask so-called flaws. Embrace shape diversity!
Curating Flattering Outfits
Beyond posing itself, wardrobe choices greatly impact how the body photographs. Models and stylists should strategically select outfits using these optical illusion effects:
Monochromatic Pairings
Wearing the exact same color and shade on both top and bottom creates an extra-lengthened silhouette, making appear taller and slimmer.
Dark Colors on Bottom
Because darker colors recede, wearing them below the natural waistline slims the lower body. Light tops by contrast stand out, balancing wide hips.
Vibrant Colors Above Waist
Wearing brighter, saturated colors above the waist highlights the torso and draws attention upwards. Neutral slim bottoms let the vibrant top shine.
Large Prints Below Waist
Small prints reduce, while large flashy prints increase size perception. Place oversized graphic prints on pants, leggings or skirts to showcase shape.
High Necklines
A mock neckline or high crew top creates a slimming vertical line paired with low-slung bottoms. On dresses, a jewel, collared or banded neck leads the eyes up.
Defined Waist Tops
Cropped tops, tucked-in blouses, cinched peasant tops, tied fronts and wrap styles all define waist shape on a bare torso, creating contrast slimness.
Deciding what outfits flatter the form should happen long before model and photographer ever strike a pose. Advance styling choices ease the process of snapping incredible product images.
Incorporating Props and Pairings
While garment posing starts with the model herself, introducing props and accessory pairings adds storytelling dimension. Photographers should curate vignettes through:
Thoughtful Prop Additions
Reinforcing the product’s end use provides helpful context. A backpack in use poses differently than on its own.
Everyday Props
A travel garment may pair nicely with maps, camera bag, journal. Beachwear works with straw hats, beach balls. Model the context.
Coordinating Accessories
Designers market accompanying products like coordinating bags, jewelry and footwear. Work them into integrated outfits.
Partially Visible Pairings
Consider crop top + visible waistband of new jeans, cropped jacket + print scarf peeking below, layered jewelry displaying multiple styles.
Giving the Model Motivation
Rather than holding a prop meaninglessly, models should actively engage with items: – Look down while texting on phone – Gaze out while grasping coffee cup pensively
– Bend one knee to tie shoelaces
Implementing Negative Space
A centered, upright model can feel oddly placed and static. Create a sense of captured candidness through:
Asymmetry
Position model to one side to enable prop additions on the open side for negative space
Looking Out of Frame
Have model face towards or peer over one edge of the photo to suggest a world outside the borders
Thoughtful prop and pairing additions requires both stylist and photographer to consider the complete image storytelling potential of poses. This guides not only outfit changes but scene set modifications between captures.
Directing Smooth Shoot Flow
To enable a smooth shoot flow while maintaining quality results, photographers should:
Maintain Light Control
Watch for changes in model position relative to studio lighting which can drastically alter image exposure and color cast.
Analyze Each Test Shot
Zoom in on test shots to check details like outfit gapping, twisted seams, fabric pulling, exposed undergarments etc. Provide feedback for fixes.
Vary Angles
Capture 36° rotations all around the model for dimensional options rather than just front, L/R sides and back. Zoom out wider, come close for detail.
Guide Gradual Changes
Instruct gradual shifting of elements like: – 1 foot forward, swap arm angles – Twist a bit more, tilt chin down slightly This prevents overwhelming models with too many notes at once.
Remember Retouching Limits
Understand limits of productions budget and post processing saver time. Unflattering posing problems can’t easily be edited out but often can be resolved on set by refining position.
Thoughtfully steering the entire shoot process enables photographers to consistently capture outstanding usable image assets.
Posing Groups and Multiple Models
While individual model posing establishes the foundation, incorporating group shots and multiple models enables showcasing product versatility and styling. Consider these tips for effective multi-model images:
Designate a Lead Model
Have one model initiate a base pose to set the scene. The other models then find their place in relation. Repeat changing the lead for variety.
Layer Levels
Making use of multiple planes within a group shot adds dimension. Have models sit, stand, and kneel/squat to position heads above, below and between each other.
Overlap Intentionally
When models overlap in a group arrangement, whether side-by-side, behind or on stairs, be thoughtful about what body parts intersect – carefully trim out disturbing overlaps later.
Show sizing range
Use a collective of models of varying body types, ethnicities and ages grouped together wearing the same garment to represent diverse customers.
Demonstrate styling changeability
Start with base product shots using cohesive styling to maintain brand image. Then capture quirky offbeat alternate wear or group personality shots (ex: jean jacket over bridesmaid dresses) to display versatility.
Design informal vignettes
Casual natural-seeming group shots imply how friends might casually don the apparel together out in real life. Avoid overly matching yawning poses.
Tell backstories
Adding environmental and activity-based scene setting props builds an aspirational narrative and sense of inclusion for viewing customers. Does the story compel or confuse?
Curating memorable and magnetic group shots takes forethought but expands product possibilities exponentially when executed intentionally.
The Ecom Modeling Process
Successful studio shoots start well before models even enter the picture. Mapping out both production planning and post-processing workflows ensures posed product shots expend time and money towards the strongest ROI.
Pre-Production Prep
Content strategy action steps include:
Review current catalog and make a shoot list wishlist to fill stylistic or product gaps
Check production budgets, equipment/studio availability, schedule and secure models, stylists, photographers, assistants, catering, etc
Pull sample product and create styling inspiration boards organized by outfit changes
On-Shoot Flow
Shoot day tips for efficiency:
Have models arrive makeup complete for test looks and lighting check
Review approved shot list and outfit/prop pull options before first look fully dressed
Assign assistant to log each capture with model names, product numbers and batch change info
Use consistent file naming/numbering conventions for easy searching
Post-Production Polish
Complete first selects edit pass removing blinks, outtakes
Second pass color correct for consistent tones and skin smoothing as needed
Final edits: image crop/refinement, clip group product masks, cutouts as required
Upload finals to digital asset management platforms and ecommerce listing software
While the camera spotlight fixates on model posing as the pinnacle, truly elevated product images only emerge through thoroughly mapped production and processing supporting frameworks. What poses volumes also rests outside the frame itself.
| Section | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Goals of Model Posing |
|
| Developing a Pose Repertoire |
|
| Executing Standing Poses |
|
| Posing Problem Body Areas |
|
| Curating Flattering Outfits |
|
| Incorporating Props & Pairings |
|
| Directing Smooth Shoot Flow |
|
| Posing Groups and Multiple Models |
|
| The Ecom Modeling Process |
|
| Ideal Model Attributes |
|
| Types of Shots |
|
Conclusion
The ability to direct models into carefully crafted, intentionally flattering poses remains the crux skill separating amateur snapshot shoots from professional productions. Ecommerce brands rely on evocative product images that speak to aspirational customers. Compelling them starts with displaying garments at their best.
We explored core strategies like elongating proportions, minimizing problem areas, showcasing intricate details and facilitating shoot efficiency through forward planning. Both models and photographers now better understand foundational pose types, principles for foot, limb, torso and head positioning, outfit optical illusions, prop pairings and multi-model variations.
By applying this comprehensive knowledge, ecommerce catalog images level up beyond basic presentation to layered lifestyle endorsements. Products stand poised to leap off screens into coveted online carts. Yet the power remains palpable even for in-store collateral where striking a strategic pose equally captures attention.
Great photography ultimately transcends any individual category. While ecommerce demands real diversity, believability and imperfection, the same rules underpin the fantasy of high fashion. Begin by studying the product and presentational needs. Base poses then adapt through purposeful flexibility, mindfulness and precision.
The information covered throughout this guide only marks the beginning. Look towards the horizon for inspiration. Bend and sway like flowers and trees through ever-changing conditions. And continue reaching further to transform functional to phenomenal. Ready, set...strike a pose!