San Diego Photography Tip: Hands - All Colors Photography

Your San Diego Photography Tip this month: Hands

Every month I will be talking about little things that can make a big difference during a photoshoot. These photography tips will help your portrait look more harmonious and put together.

For this first time, I’ve decided to talk about hands. Most people never know what to do with their hands in photoshoots (including me), so I thought it would be a good idea to practice a little bit at home before a photoshoot – or really always, since we are always in front of the camera, be it a professional one or a cell phone selfie. I put some thought into it and now I can share some tips.

The first thing that come to mind is to recommend you to practice “princess hands”. When you are posing, or in an idling position, try to place your fingers in uneven positions, specially the index finger, that will make your hands look more graceful. Whenever possible, make sure your index finger is slightly raised in comparison to your other fingers. Whether you are crossing your arms, touching your face, or holding your belly during a maternity session, start practicing with your hands by moving your fingers so your hand doesn’t look stiff. Try it right now. I’ve been practicing it myself whenever it comes to mind, and it helped me tremendously on my last family photoshoot.

Make sure your manicure is up to date, or at least remove old nail polish and trim your nails.

Hand in pocket is always a great option that can be used a few times during the photoshoot. One hand in pocket – the other arm holding your significant other, both hands in pockets – four finger with the thumb out of the pocket or the opposite: just the thumb in pockets.

If you are wearing a long, flowy dress, I would recommend that you hold one side of your dress and wave it around as you walk – the other hand can be holding your child’s hand or hugging your significant other.

I love hats and if you are bringing one, make sure it doesn’t cover your face too much. I would suggest you touch the rim of the hat or hold the back of it for some photos. Holding it on the side of the body is a good “use” for your hand.

While holding your wife, choose the waist, not shoulders. If your husband chose to rest his arm on your shoulder, locks hands with him. And don’t be afraid to touch arms, to rest a hand on each other’s arms, legs. You can use each other’s body as a resting spot for your hands.

Kissing your significant other is another very important moment to pay attention to your hands: hold each other face/neck with firmness but be gentle. Be mindful about how you hold it so it doesn’t look aggressive or stiff. The same goes for when you are touching each other’s hair or kissing your child: remember to be gentle. Gentle touch is crucial.

My final advice is: DO NOT BE AFRAID to use your hands in different ways. Think of it as a dance and you want your whole body to a part of the moment and to help you express your emotions.

This is my photography tip this month. Next month I will talk about feet and what shoes to wear for each occasion. And remember: I am always ready to help!