How to place hands in your photographs

How to place hands in your photographs

Hands can be pesky things to deal with when it comes to photography. They can be the difference between a photograph looking forced or relaxed. Most people always have to be doing something with their hands whether it is playing with their necklace, holding onto the bottom of their sleeve or picking at a loose thread on their jeans. However when someone pulls out a camera hands tend to instantly stop what they are doing and just sit there lifeless and rigid. It is an instant tell-tale on whether someone is comfortable in front of the camera or not.

Positioning the Hands

However there is a way to keep these hands under control and that is to simply give them something to do. Now this doesn’t have to be any thing extravagant like origami or anything like that, it can be as simple as getting the person lay one hand over the top of the other or give them something to hold. Some People say it is the reason that brides have bouquets so that no one can see how nervous they are or that their hands are shaking. It is a simple thing to consider when you are about to take a photo and yet it can make a world of difference.

Personality

Hands are also an important part of us that can give a clue to what type of person we are. A shy person may keep their hands close to them, while a more confident person may be more flamboyant with their hands. Some people talk with their hands using extravagant gestures to accompany what they are saying. Also hands are great for showing emotions such as a gentle touch on the cheek to let one know that it will be okay. Just by focusing on ones hands you can sometimes tell more of a story than if you photographed the whole scene.

Posing in Context

As I have mentioned previously, just before you take the photo take a second to look at the scene. Think about what type of photo you are taking, a formal or casual photo, and get the hands to act appropriately. For example you are taking a photo of your son on his graduation day. Rather than him standing there stiff and rigid get him to hold onto his certificate or his graduation hat, have him lean against a tree or put his hands behind his back. You will be surprised the difference it will make. Couple shots are the easiest because you can simply tell them to hold hands, link arms, give each other a cuddle, put their arms around each others waist… the list is endless. For a casual shot get them to put their hands in their pockets or lean on a chair. Hold onto the ends of their scarf if they have one on or fiddle with a piece of jewelery. It is amazing how by giving someone a task or something to think about they will relax and forget for at least a split second that they are getting a photo taken which is all the time you need to take a photo. It does take a little thought before you shoot but once you get into the habit of checking what those hands are up to you will notice your photos look a lot more relaxed and natural.

Amy works in the Ballina Eastmon store and has written a number of articles as she pursues her passion to be a Professional Photographer. You can read other article by Amy here.

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