Guy Senior Portraits - Posing

[scottvd]

I've been asked to shoot senior school photos for my male cousin - I just did some shots for his younger sister here: http://bit.ly/hGbny

I've never posed a guy before and would like to get any pointers from the pros. Guys this age are typically not very photogenic, a bit awkward, and concerned with looking "cool." I anticipate a subject who isn't too excited to be in front of a camera and I think that's going to show through in the photos.

Any sample galleries would be helpful too - thanks in advance for the tips..

`S

[gstark]

Hi Scott.

Great question.

How many individuals will you be shooting? Finding out about their interests (beforehand if possible) is a good starting point. Talk with them while you're shooting, and try to keep them relaxed.

Do you have a nearby outdoor area where you can perhaps do the shoot? Somewhere where perhaps there's some points of interest for the background, as well as something they can lean on/relax against? A railway yard, or maybe a dock with some yachts?

If they have a car, consider shooting them with their car (or bike). Sitting on the hood, or at the wheel, through the open front door or window.

[scottvd]

Gary-
Thanks for the ideas - seems to be the focus when viewing other photographer's portfolios is keying on interest of the subject. I'm preparing myself for a letdown but am trying my hardest not to let this impact my attitude!

I'll be shooting just one subject - I think his sister will tag along too and maybe we'll get some couple shots for mom. He's interested in fixing up cars and fishing - I was thinking of some poses with the hood popped and him bent over with a wrench in his hand - or standing up wiping off his hands with a red rag or whatever. I'll need to work on the fishing more without making him look like a 9 year old boy sitting on the dock fishing with a cork.

I'll post the results, thanks!
`S