Chin Up
Definitely, although a dropped chin can make an image look great when used wisely, to add emotion to a photograph perhaps, but by and large it is best to keep your chin up when having your photograph taken, but not so high that your nostrils are on show.
Claw Hands
Hands are probably the easiest thing to overlook when posing for your photograph, and if your not careful your hands could very well end up looking like claws.
It is hard to know what to do with hands unless you are experienced. but the main rule is to keep them relaxed and not clenched, and if your hands are on display, then have them being viewed sideways on, this will make them appear much more feminine and much less masculine and threatening.
Try to keep fingers elongated and outstretched, do not bend them too much or hang onto clothing awkwardly, if you are very conscious of your hands, have them play with your hair, again, having the side of your hand facing the camera!
Eyes Up
Generally speaking, you want your eyes to be in the top third of the frame in any photograph, well most of the times anyway.
Having the eyes placed in the top third of an image looks much more natural and pleasing to the eye, and is very flattering.
Make Shapes
Resting one arm upon ones hip sideways on can create a triangle shape which for some reason is rather appealing in portraits, you see it all the time in fashion, glamour, in fact all genres of portrait photography.
There are so many ways to play with this, the choice is yours, just make it look natural and not forced in any way.
Be Comfortable
This isn't Yoga, there is no need to bend over backwards, at the same time, there is no need for any discomfort in portraits, as long as the camera is at a good working height, and you are not stooping down for the camera, you will look great.
Awkward poses do look terrible so pay close attention to your overall pose and if you find yourself in any discomfort, just recompose the shot and try again.
Vogue
If you really are stuck for ideas on how to ose, just have a browse through fashion magazines and clothing catalogues, there are often a whole load of images to inspire your posing.
Try to emulate those poses in a mirror before you get your camera out, and then make them your own, put your own slant on it and vogue like Madonna!
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