As a Local YEG Edmonton area, and Spruce Grove Boudoir photographer, my mission is to make every client feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in front of the camera. One common concern that many people face during a photoshoot is the fear of looking awkward or not feeling confident in their own skin. This can be especially true when it comes to figuring out the most flattering poses—whether you're curvy, petite, or anywhere in between.

The good news is that with a little guidance and some empowerment, you can feel at ease and showcase your natural beauty in every shot. In this post, I’ll share some figure-flattering posing tips, mental empowerment advice, and how I work with my clients to highlight their favorite features.

But there’s more to this blog post than just that—I’m also linking to a fellow photographer, my amazing friend [Photographer’s Name], who is also passionate about making clients feel their best. We’ve been collaborating recently on some posing ideas, especially for boudoir sessions with curvier clients. So, make sure you check out her blog as well for some great insights on boudoir photography and posing for every body type.

Mental Empowerment: Embrace Your Unique Beauty

It’s not just about the poses—it’s also about how you feel during the session. I believe that everyone has unique beauty, and our job is to embrace and celebrate that in every frame. You don’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. The key is to recognize your strengths and features that make you feel amazing, and let those shine through in your photos.

The idea of “flaws” is often more about how we perceive ourselves than how others see us. During your session, we’ll work together to focus on what makes you feel powerful and confident, not just on the things you may want to hide. Embrace your body and its stories; they’re what make you who you are. I also love when my clients just let go, and start dancing to the music we set up during our session, this really loosens you up, and makes you feel more free, and less focused on the photos and more in the moment having fun. Often the reason people dont look good in their photos is because their emotions or expressions are forced, and unnatural. Dancing really helps bring out the natural authentic you. I encourage a little boogie in every session!

As a photographer, I pride myself on curating a shoot experience that focuses on your highlights and shows you in your best light. It’s not about fitting into a mold of perfection, but about showcasing you, just as you are, having fun and letting your inner beauty shine through. You don’t have to change who you are to look great on camera; you just need to feel empowered to be yourself, relaxed, and comfortable, the rest is all up to the photographer!

Collaborating with Fellow Photographers to Strengthen Our Brand

Recently, I’ve been working alongside my wonderful photographer friend Tabitha Callum, who specializes in boudoir photography. We’ve been discussing how to pose curvier clients in a way that makes them feel both confident and comfortable, especially during intimate shoots like boudoir. It’s been such a rewarding experience to collaborate on curating a seamless, flattering posing guide that works for every body type.

I’m thrilled to link to Tabithas work from Heart and Stone Photography here, where she shares fantastic tips on boudoir posing, especially for curvier clients. Her approach to boudoir photography is all about empowerment, and I highly recommend checking out her website for more insight into how she creates beautiful and flattering boudoir photos.

We’re both committed to helping our clients feel beautiful and confident in front of the camera, and we love supporting each other’s businesses. By sharing tips and insights like these, we aim to create a stronger, more consistent brand experience that helps every client feel like the best version of themselves.

“For more on how to pose for a flattering, natural look, check out my friend Tabitha's blog post on figure-flattering poses here,"

In Conclusion

Posing doesn’t have to be a stressful or uncomfortable part of your photoshoot. With the right guidance, props, and a focus on what makes you feel beautiful, we can capture flattering images that highlight your natural beauty. And with a little empowerment, you’ll see that there’s no such thing as “perfect”—there’s only you, and that’s what makes the photos truly stunning.

If you’re curious about how I can help bring out your best features during a session, feel free to reach out! And be sure to visit [Photographer's Name]’s website for even more tips on boudoir photography and posing for every body type.

Let’s celebrate your beauty together—one shot at a time. See below for some posing tips!!

Soft boudoir photography with dreamy pink curtain backdrop and delicate lace details.

Atmospheric outdoor scene with lit candles and dark decor against evergreen trees at dusk.

Halloween themed setup with purple lighting, carved pumpkins, candles and decorative skulls under pine trees.

Rustic outdoor portrait against weathered white wooden wall with natural lighting.

Posing Tips to Flatter Your Figure

1. Angle Your Body, Not Your Face

One of the easiest ways to flatter your figure is by focusing on your body angles rather than your face. Avoid standing straight on toward the camera, as this can widen your silhouette. Instead, angle your body slightly to the side, keeping one shoulder closer to the camera and tilting your chin to elongate the neck. This simple shift can make a huge difference in the way your figure is portrayed.

2. Create Curves with Your Body

A common concern for curvier clients is feeling like their shape won’t be highlighted properly. The truth is, curves are beautiful! By gently arching your back and shifting your weight to one leg, you naturally create curves and add dimension to your body. A slight bend in the knee, combined with a graceful posture, will elongate your legs and create a stunning silhouette.

3. Hands Matter

When posing, how you position your hands can make or break a shot. Avoid letting your hands just hang by your sides; instead, try placing them on your hips, gently resting them on your thighs, or even playing with your hair. The goal is to create a relaxed and natural look that doesn’t feel stiff.

4. Use Props and Clothing Strategically

Clothing and props aren’t just accessories—they can be used to enhance or obscure certain areas of the body to suit your client’s preferences. For example, a flowing scarf or jacket can add layers and texture, while also hiding areas that might make someone feel self-conscious. Similarly, strategic use of high-waisted pants or dresses can elongate the legs and create a smoother, more flattering silhouette. As a photographer, I work with my clients to choose the best outfits and props that make them feel at ease and confident.

5. Work with the Light

Lighting plays an essential role in flattering your figure. Soft, diffused lighting creates gentle shadows and highlights the natural curves of the body, while harsher light can sometimes be unflattering, or can hide flaws entirely with blackness and only illuminate certain features. As your photographer, I pay close attention to how light hits your face and body, ensuring it creates the most flattering effect possible.

Below is an example of figure flattering harsh lighting, typically only works well after sundown, or low light conditions.

using certain settings on my camera and flash. I can choose what parts to illuminate and what parts not to!! As you can see, I was able to get some images where she is entirely anonymous! and some where you cant even see her waistline!! You can slim hips and waists with the right posing and lighting. every time!

A Comprehensive Guide to Figure-Flattering Poses: How to Pose with Confidence and Ease

As a photographer, I believe every individual is beautiful, and it’s my job to help showcase that beauty through the lens. Whether you're a seasoned model or someone who's never been in front of the camera, feeling confident in your own skin is crucial. One of the best ways to ensure that confidence translates into photos is through figure-flattering poses. Poses aren’t just about looking good—they are an essential tool for guiding your body into the most flattering angles that highlight your natural beauty.

In this comprehensive guide, I’m going to walk you through some of the most effective figure-flattering poses for a variety of settings—whether you're sitting, standing, or lying down—and share how you can guide your clients or yourself through them. Additionally, we’ll dive into how to incorporate props, furniture, and unique environments to enhance the beauty of your photoshoot.

We’ll also explore how to tell a compelling story with your session by drawing inspiration from themes in pop culture and ideas you might find on platforms like Pinterest. By the end of this post, you’ll not only feel comfortable posing, but you’ll also gain the confidence to have fun and enjoy your photoshoot while achieving gorgeous, natural results.

Posing for Flattering Angles: Standing, Sitting, and Lying Down

1. Standing Poses:

Standing poses are often the most common, but they can also be the trickiest when it comes to flattering your figure. The secret to standing poses is creating angles that showcase your shape while avoiding rigid, stiff postures. Here are some tips for standing poses:

Keep Limbs Close Together: One of the most flattering ways to stand is by keeping your limbs close together. This helps to elongate the body and creates a smoother, more refined look. You can achieve this by slightly crossing your legs or keeping one leg tucked behind the other.
Side Angles: Instead of standing directly facing the camera, angle your body slightly to the side. A 45-degree angle is ideal for creating depth and dimension. Tilt your chin slightly upward to elongate your neck and give a more confident, powerful posture.
Lean into the Pose: By leaning your body toward the camera, you create a more dynamic shape. This is particularly helpful for showcasing curves and making the body look more defined. Gently bend one knee to help accentuate your figure and add a sense of movement.
Play with Hands: The placement of your hands can make or break a standing pose. Try placing your hand on your hip, gently resting them on your waist, or lightly running fingers through your hair. The key is to avoid stiff or awkward hand positions—let them fall naturally to complement your body shape.

2. Sitting Poses:

Sitting down can often be intimidating because it can feel like the pose is hard to get just right. However, sitting poses can be incredibly flattering if done correctly.

Cross Your Legs: Whether you're sitting on the floor, a couch, or a chair, crossing your legs at the ankle or knee is a great way to add elegance and elongate the body. This simple adjustment creates a graceful silhouette that’s both comfortable and flattering.
Lean Forward Slightly: Leaning forward while seated (but still maintaining good posture) can make a dramatic difference in how your body is perceived in the image. It creates an intimate, engaging vibe while enhancing curves and body shape. Make sure to elongate your spine as you do this to avoid any slouching.
Use Furniture for Angles: Furniture, like chairs or couches, can be used to emphasize different parts of your body. For example, sitting sideways on a chair with one arm resting across the backrest can create a relaxed yet flattering posture. Adding a little twist to your waist or shoulders as you lean against the back of the chair can also bring dynamism to the shot.

3. Lying Down Poses:

Lying down poses are incredibly versatile and can create intimate, dramatic, or relaxed looks depending on the mood you're trying to capture.

Slightly Arched Back: One of the best ways to flatter your figure while lying down is by creating a slight arch in your back. This pose not only elongates your body but also adds dimension to your hips and waist. If you’re doing a boudoir or intimate session, this pose can highlight curves in a very elegant way.
Use Legs for Curves: You can bend one knee up and rest it slightly across your other leg. This creates soft curves and breaks up the straight lines of your body, creating a more flattering, sensual angle.
Facial Expressions: One of the most important aspects of lying-down poses is expression. You can play with different facial expressions—whether it’s a sultry, playful, or serene vibe—to complement the pose. Looking up, toward the camera, or gazing to the side can all add emotional depth to the shot.

Adding Movement: Creating Natural, Fluid Poses

One of the most common mistakes people make during a photoshoot is staying still for too long. While holding a pose can produce great shots, you risk looking stiff and uncomfortable if you remain stationary for too long. I recommend holding each pose for about 3-4 seconds before transitioning into a new one.

Why Movement is Key:

Movement helps create a more dynamic and natural shot, while also ensuring that the pose doesn't look too rehearsed. You don’t need to move dramatically—small shifts in your head, arms, or legs can make a world of difference.

Consider moving in and out of your poses—this allows the photographer to capture a variety of angles and expressions. A subtle shift can also result in more flattering shots by capturing different aspects of your figure.

Examples of Movement-Based Poses:

Twirls or Spins: A simple twirl or spin (especially in a flowing dress or skirt) adds energy and creates movement in your photo. Not only does it look beautiful, but it’s also fun and playful!
Reaching for the Sky: Standing tall with one arm reaching up or out can open up your body and create a feeling of freedom and strength. Combine this with a slight twist in the hips or shoulders for a more flattering angle.
Hair Movement: Running your fingers through your hair, or even gently tossing your head to the side, can add a natural sense of motion to your shot. These small movements help give the impression of spontaneity and authenticity.

Using Props and Environment to Enhance Your Poses

Props, furniture, and the environment can help accentuate your poses by adding depth, texture, and character to the shot. Here are a few ways to make the most of props and environmental elements:

1. Furniture:

Furniture can be a great tool for flattering poses. A chaise lounge, chair, or even a sofa can create angles that enhance the shape of the body. For example:

Lying on a Couch: Lying on a sofa with one arm draped over the backrest or resting against a cushion can create an effortlessly elegant pose.
Chairs: Using chairs to prop up one leg or twist the body can emphasize certain curves. A high-back chair also allows for dramatic, elongated poses that flatter the back and arms.
Window Seats & Nature: When shooting outdoors or in a room with natural light, window seats, or even just sitting on the floor next to a window, can create stunning, ethereal shots. The light streaming in can enhance your features, and the angle can help elongate the body and legs.

2. Jewellery and Accessories:

Jewellery can add an elegant touch and draw attention to certain areas of the body. Long necklaces can elongate the neck, while statement earrings can highlight the face. Bracelets and rings can be used to draw attention to your hands and arms. These subtle accessories can have a huge impact on the overall feel of the photo.

3. Fun and Playful Props:

Props like sparklers, bubbles, or even playful items like scarves or hats can add personality to your shoot. Bubbles are fun and whimsical, sparklers create a celebratory, magical feel, and lace curtains can add a romantic, ethereal touch to your photos. Use props that resonate with the theme and energy of your session to tell a story.

4. Nature:

The outdoors offers endless possibilities for creating a unique atmosphere. Consider posing on a beach, in a field of flowers, or surrounded by trees. These environments create natural frames and backdrops that enhance your overall look. Sitting on a grassy patch, leaning against a tree, or walking barefoot on the sand can all create relaxed, effortless poses.

Drawing Inspiration from Pop Culture and Pinterest

Incorporating pop culture references or Pinterest inspiration can help tell a story with your photoshoot. Whether it’s recreating a famous movie scene or drawing from your favorite music videos, these elements can add energy and life to your poses.

1. Pop Culture Inspiration:

Think about iconic figures or moments from pop culture—whether it’s a famous photo of Marilyn Monroe, a runway look from your favorite designer, or a scene from a movie that speaks to you. Recreating these moments with your own twist can help make your photoshoot feel personal and meaningful.

2. Pinterest Poses:

Pinterest is a treasure trove of creative ideas for photoshoot poses. From editorial-style portraits to intimate boudoir shots, Pinterest can provide endless inspiration. Try searching for “unique poses for women” or “flattering body poses” and create a mood board to share with your photographer. This way, you can curate your ideal session and make sure you're incorporating poses that feel right for you.

Heres my personal Boudoir Pinterest board I made for more Fantasy ideas, darker themes, halloween, gothic, and vampiric boudoir ideas! Feel free to send me your pinterest board before our session!

Wrapping Up: Confidence is Key

When it comes to posing, the most important thing is to be confident in your body and embrace your uniqueness. Every pose you strike is an opportunity to showcase your natural beauty—whether you're going for sultry, playful, or elegant. By combining movement, props, environment, and a little creativity, you can create flattering, captivating images that reflect your personality and style.