(Don't) Jump for Joy

I have to let you guys in on a little secret: I HATE jumping pictures.  I can't speak for all photographers, but I can think of no other way to ruin a picture more quickly than to have your subject jump.  I get the premise; it's a fun way to use your body to convey the meaning of strong joy. And I won't lie, I've seen some pretty cool jumping shots.

But in most cases, this is what happens: someone counts to three while the subjects leaps into the air, immediately sending any clothing they're wearing upwards.  At the same time, the photographer is frantically trying to focus on the moving subject.  The result: blur, belly, crazy hair, and an overall pictures that looks as if you've just been electrified. Just to prove it, here's a recent jumping picture of me.

Not my finest moment.

Don't let a jumping shot happen to you.  Posing can feel very repetitive if you don't have some great moves in your arsenal.  I once read a great photography tip for posing that said, "If it bends, bend it."  Pictures become much more interesting when the subject takes up space in the frame.  During your shoot, try bending your knees , cocking your hips, using your arms to create a space, bring your hands up to your face, bend your wrists, etc.  So, instead of resorting to jumping, check out some of these poses you can do to still get a fun and interesting picture! Here are some posing tips and tricks.  If you need more inspiration, head over to the Pinterest page and check out the board for poses!

-JKP