So often when we pose for the camera, we become rigid and self-conscious. Our shoulders migrate to our ears (yes, you really do look like a turtle when you do this), and our arms and hands become glued to our sides.
There are several ways to avoid this, and it all comes down to what your friend does with her hands. Sound easy enough? It is.
By creating a slight bend at the elbows, your friend will look relaxed. One way to achieve this is by asking her to put her thumbs in the pockets or belt loops of her jeans (or whatever). She can even place her hands on her hips with the thumbs hidden behind her. There should be a slight separation and curve to the fingers. Boys might prefer to have their hands in their pockets, but with the thumbs sticking out.
Clenched fists aren’t a good idea. One way to avoid this—if your friend is prone to do that—is to ask her to hold something small that won’t be visible in the picture, like a short pencil. Again, it gives a natural curve to her fingers so she doesn’t look like she’s ready to slug you.
Having your friend hold a prop (or lean against one) also helps her look relaxed and natural. I’ll be covering props in a later tip.
Not everyone becomes self-conscious, so best to avoid mentioning the arms and hands until you start shooting. If it looks like it’s going to be a problem, then you can direct her with some subtle hints. The goal is to prevent her from feeling even more self-conscious than before.
And one last tip, try to have the long edge of the hand facing the camera to prevent the stubby-fingered look.
Assignment: study your favorite teen magazines, and look at what the models are doing with their hands and arms.