Veteran Thread On posing for pictures... tips and thoughts

[Mobster]

I've lost the tag to a post in which this question came up but this thread might well act as generalized advice for all 'non-competing' bodybuilders etc to aid for a better pics. A few observations

1. YouTube. Do NOT look at pro on stage routines but there ARE some great 'how-to' type lessons by those who teach it. For example think about how a boxer poses on the scales vs how a bodybuilder does. The change of the forearm inwards makes all the difference
2. If you literally post pics just to compare them for progress it doesn't matter too much HOW you pose vs posing under the EXACT same conditions. So same background, lighting and, if poss shorts.
3. Do NOT take pics at an angle. It's not snap chat.
4. Have the camera at either chest or eye height (like a pro photographer does. OR, you do compete, either that way or from where a judge would see you so you can pose for the persons deciding where you'll place.
5. Too many take pics of themselves. Just FKIN ask someone at the gym. Don't tell me you can't ask a real person and then post it here on on social media for THOUSANDS to look at.
6. If a single pic is a faff take a short video (most lifting pics in my log like this) and screen-grab an image.

Learning to pose makes a HUGE difference. Why is it worth it? You'll spend a 1000 on PEDs, hundreds of hours training and cardio, go without treats for MONTHS and then, having got into the best shape of your life, stint on holding a pose properly. Again if it's just progress learn 1-2 poses but do them properly

If you DO compete you MUST practice. It's NOT easy. But the trick is to make it LOOK easy. AND posing WILL make muscles pop more. It's exercise all in itself. Silly stuff like eye contact, chin up and looking like you fkin own the pose and the stage (look at fkin me!!) will make you look better and compare better to rivals if all else is equal.

One example of a 'how to'. Front double biceps. Even kids know what 'make a muscle is' and 9/10 this is what they'll do. Ditto if you asked a 90's kid to do a Hulkster pose they'd hit a most muscular.

So on front double - try elbows a little higher (level with the top of the delt) vs straight and level. Turning the first down and in really makes the forearms pop. Now try elbows back if short armed and elbows in (towards the chest) if your arms are too long. One lengthens the appearance and the other shortens it.

It can feel a little 'off' but we dress up for weddings etc so why not look your best for all that effort you're putting in?

Again - PRACTICE.

 

[R.AP]

I've lost the tag to a post in which this question came up but this thread might well act as generalized advice for all 'non-competing' bodybuilders etc to aid for a better pics. A few observations

1. YouTube. Do NOT look at pro on stage routines but there ARE some great 'how-to' type lessons by those who teach it. For example think about how a boxer poses on the scales vs how a bodybuilder does. The change of the forearm inwards makes all the difference
2. If you literally post pics just to compare them for progress it doesn't matter too much HOW you pose vs posing under the EXACT same conditions. So same background, lighting and, if poss shorts.
3. Do NOT take pics at an angle. It's not snap chat.
4. Have the camera at either chest or eye height (like a pro photographer does. OR, you do compete, either that way or from where a judge would see you so you can pose for the persons deciding where you'll place.
5. Too many take pics of themselves. Just FKIN ask someone at the gym. Don't tell me you can't ask a real person and then post it here on on social media for THOUSANDS to look at.
6. If a single pic is a faff take a short video (most lifting pics in my log like this) and screen-grab an image.

Learning to pose makes a HUGE difference. Why is it worth it? You'll spend a 1000 on PEDs, hundreds of hours training and cardio, go without treats for MONTHS and then, having got into the best shape of your life, stint on holding a pose properly. Again if it's just progress learn 1-2 poses but do them properly

If you DO compete you MUST practice. It's NOT easy. But the trick is to make it LOOK easy. AND posing WILL make muscles pop more. It's exercise all in itself. Silly stuff like eye contact, chin up and looking like you fkin own the pose and the stage (look at fkin me!!) will make you look better and compare better to rivals if all else is equal.

One example of a 'how to'. Front double biceps. Even kids know what 'make a muscle is' and 9/10 this is what they'll do. Ditto if you asked a 90's kid to do a Hulkster pose they'd hit a most muscular.

So on front double - try elbows a little higher (level with the top of the delt) vs straight and level. Turning the first down and in really makes the forearms pop. Now try elbows back if short armed and elbows in (towards the chest) if your arms are too long. One lengthens the appearance and the other shortens it.

It can feel a little 'off' but we dress up for weddings etc so why not look your best for all that effort you're putting in?

Again - PRACTICE.

Great post here bro, and from a coaches perspective as well, getting consistent with all of the above will paint a much clearer picture and better guide your coach to make the right decisions when it comes to your physique!

If anyone is unsure and wants some pointers you're welcome to kick off by posting on this thread with pictures and myself and others who are knowledgeable can provide some more pointers.

 

[Demon_throne]

I've lost the tag to a post in which this question came up but this thread might well act as generalized advice for all 'non-competing' bodybuilders etc to aid for a better pics. A few observations

1. YouTube. Do NOT look at pro on stage routines but there ARE some great 'how-to' type lessons by those who teach it. For example think about how a boxer poses on the scales vs how a bodybuilder does. The change of the forearm inwards makes all the difference
2. If you literally post pics just to compare them for progress it doesn't matter too much HOW you pose vs posing under the EXACT same conditions. So same background, lighting and, if poss shorts.
3. Do NOT take pics at an angle. It's not snap chat.
4. Have the camera at either chest or eye height (like a pro photographer does. OR, you do compete, either that way or from where a judge would see you so you can pose for the persons deciding where you'll place.
5. Too many take pics of themselves. Just FKIN ask someone at the gym. Don't tell me you can't ask a real person and then post it here on on social media for THOUSANDS to look at.
6. If a single pic is a faff take a short video (most lifting pics in my log like this) and screen-grab an image.

Learning to pose makes a HUGE difference. Why is it worth it? You'll spend a 1000 on PEDs, hundreds of hours training and cardio, go without treats for MONTHS and then, having got into the best shape of your life, stint on holding a pose properly. Again if it's just progress learn 1-2 poses but do them properly

If you DO compete you MUST practice. It's NOT easy. But the trick is to make it LOOK easy. AND posing WILL make muscles pop more. It's exercise all in itself. Silly stuff like eye contact, chin up and looking like you fkin own the pose and the stage (look at fkin me!!) will make you look better and compare better to rivals if all else is equal.

One example of a 'how to'. Front double biceps. Even kids know what 'make a muscle is' and 9/10 this is what they'll do. Ditto if you asked a 90's kid to do a Hulkster pose they'd hit a most muscular.

So on front double - try elbows a little higher (level with the top of the delt) vs straight and level. Turning the first down and in really makes the forearms pop. Now try elbows back if short armed and elbows in (towards the chest) if your arms are too long. One lengthens the appearance and the other shortens it.

It can feel a little 'off' but we dress up for weddings etc so why not look your best for all that effort you're putting in?

Again - PRACTICE.

One thing my other half keeps saying is "a better poser, will beat a better body" I tend to agree to a curtain level

 

[LevButlerov]

I've lost the tag to a post in which this question came up but this thread might well act as generalized advice for all 'non-competing' bodybuilders etc to aid for a better pics. A few observations

1. YouTube. Do NOT look at pro on stage routines but there ARE some great 'how-to' type lessons by those who teach it. For example think about how a boxer poses on the scales vs how a bodybuilder does. The change of the forearm inwards makes all the difference
2. If you literally post pics just to compare them for progress it doesn't matter too much HOW you pose vs posing under the EXACT same conditions. So same background, lighting and, if poss shorts.
3. Do NOT take pics at an angle. It's not snap chat.
4. Have the camera at either chest or eye height (like a pro photographer does. OR, you do compete, either that way or from where a judge would see you so you can pose for the persons deciding where you'll place.
5. Too many take pics of themselves. Just FKIN ask someone at the gym. Don't tell me you can't ask a real person and then post it here on on social media for THOUSANDS to look at.
6. If a single pic is a faff take a short video (most lifting pics in my log like this) and screen-grab an image.

Learning to pose makes a HUGE difference. Why is it worth it? You'll spend a 1000 on PEDs, hundreds of hours training and cardio, go without treats for MONTHS and then, having got into the best shape of your life, stint on holding a pose properly. Again if it's just progress learn 1-2 poses but do them properly

If you DO compete you MUST practice. It's NOT easy. But the trick is to make it LOOK easy. AND posing WILL make muscles pop more. It's exercise all in itself. Silly stuff like eye contact, chin up and looking like you fkin own the pose and the stage (look at fkin me!!) will make you look better and compare better to rivals if all else is equal.

One example of a 'how to'. Front double biceps. Even kids know what 'make a muscle is' and 9/10 this is what they'll do. Ditto if you asked a 90's kid to do a Hulkster pose they'd hit a most muscular.

So on front double - try elbows a little higher (level with the top of the delt) vs straight and level. Turning the first down and in really makes the forearms pop. Now try elbows back if short armed and elbows in (towards the chest) if your arms are too long. One lengthens the appearance and the other shortens it.

It can feel a little 'off' but we dress up for weddings etc so why not look your best for all that effort you're putting in?

Again - PRACTICE.

well said @Mobster easiest to look at pics are just straight selfies in mirror for me so I can see before afters.

 

[stevesmi]

I've lost the tag to a post in which this question came up but this thread might well act as generalized advice for all 'non-competing' bodybuilders etc to aid for a better pics. A few observations

1. YouTube. Do NOT look at pro on stage routines but there ARE some great 'how-to' type lessons by those who teach it. For example think about how a boxer poses on the scales vs how a bodybuilder does. The change of the forearm inwards makes all the difference
2. If you literally post pics just to compare them for progress it doesn't matter too much HOW you pose vs posing under the EXACT same conditions. So same background, lighting and, if poss shorts.
3. Do NOT take pics at an angle. It's not snap chat.
4. Have the camera at either chest or eye height (like a pro photographer does. OR, you do compete, either that way or from where a judge would see you so you can pose for the persons deciding where you'll place.
5. Too many take pics of themselves. Just FKIN ask someone at the gym. Don't tell me you can't ask a real person and then post it here on on social media for THOUSANDS to look at.
6. If a single pic is a faff take a short video (most lifting pics in my log like this) and screen-grab an image.

Learning to pose makes a HUGE difference. Why is it worth it? You'll spend a 1000 on PEDs, hundreds of hours training and cardio, go without treats for MONTHS and then, having got into the best shape of your life, stint on holding a pose properly. Again if it's just progress learn 1-2 poses but do them properly

If you DO compete you MUST practice. It's NOT easy. But the trick is to make it LOOK easy. AND posing WILL make muscles pop more. It's exercise all in itself. Silly stuff like eye contact, chin up and looking like you fkin own the pose and the stage (look at fkin me!!) will make you look better and compare better to rivals if all else is equal.

One example of a 'how to'. Front double biceps. Even kids know what 'make a muscle is' and 9/10 this is what they'll do. Ditto if you asked a 90's kid to do a Hulkster pose they'd hit a most muscular.

So on front double - try elbows a little higher (level with the top of the delt) vs straight and level. Turning the first down and in really makes the forearms pop. Now try elbows back if short armed and elbows in (towards the chest) if your arms are too long. One lengthens the appearance and the other shortens it.

It can feel a little 'off' but we dress up for weddings etc so why not look your best for all that effort you're putting in?

Again - PRACTICE.

I think this is a good post. I know you're anal about photography. A lot of people just aren't good at it or don't care to be good at it. I'm included.

 

[ceo]

I've lost the tag to a post in which this question came up but this thread might well act as generalized advice for all 'non-competing' bodybuilders etc to aid for a better pics. A few observations

1. YouTube. Do NOT look at pro on stage routines but there ARE some great 'how-to' type lessons by those who teach it. For example think about how a boxer poses on the scales vs how a bodybuilder does. The change of the forearm inwards makes all the difference
2. If you literally post pics just to compare them for progress it doesn't matter too much HOW you pose vs posing under the EXACT same conditions. So same background, lighting and, if poss shorts.
3. Do NOT take pics at an angle. It's not snap chat.
4. Have the camera at either chest or eye height (like a pro photographer does. OR, you do compete, either that way or from where a judge would see you so you can pose for the persons deciding where you'll place.
5. Too many take pics of themselves. Just FKIN ask someone at the gym. Don't tell me you can't ask a real person and then post it here on on social media for THOUSANDS to look at.
6. If a single pic is a faff take a short video (most lifting pics in my log like this) and screen-grab an image.

Learning to pose makes a HUGE difference. Why is it worth it? You'll spend a 1000 on PEDs, hundreds of hours training and cardio, go without treats for MONTHS and then, having got into the best shape of your life, stint on holding a pose properly. Again if it's just progress learn 1-2 poses but do them properly

If you DO compete you MUST practice. It's NOT easy. But the trick is to make it LOOK easy. AND posing WILL make muscles pop more. It's exercise all in itself. Silly stuff like eye contact, chin up and looking like you fkin own the pose and the stage (look at fkin me!!) will make you look better and compare better to rivals if all else is equal.

One example of a 'how to'. Front double biceps. Even kids know what 'make a muscle is' and 9/10 this is what they'll do. Ditto if you asked a 90's kid to do a Hulkster pose they'd hit a most muscular.

So on front double - try elbows a little higher (level with the top of the delt) vs straight and level. Turning the first down and in really makes the forearms pop. Now try elbows back if short armed and elbows in (towards the chest) if your arms are too long. One lengthens the appearance and the other shortens it.

It can feel a little 'off' but we dress up for weddings etc so why not look your best for all that effort you're putting in?

Again - PRACTICE.

Bros, you should volunteer to oil one of the dudes up and take pictures of them on here.

 

[ROIDDERS]

I've lost the tag to a post in which this question came up but this thread might well act as generalized advice for all 'non-competing' bodybuilders etc to aid for a better pics. A few observations

1. YouTube. Do NOT look at pro on stage routines but there ARE some great 'how-to' type lessons by those who teach it. For example think about how a boxer poses on the scales vs how a bodybuilder does. The change of the forearm inwards makes all the difference
2. If you literally post pics just to compare them for progress it doesn't matter too much HOW you pose vs posing under the EXACT same conditions. So same background, lighting and, if poss shorts.
3. Do NOT take pics at an angle. It's not snap chat.
4. Have the camera at either chest or eye height (like a pro photographer does. OR, you do compete, either that way or from where a judge would see you so you can pose for the persons deciding where you'll place.
5. Too many take pics of themselves. Just FKIN ask someone at the gym. Don't tell me you can't ask a real person and then post it here on on social media for THOUSANDS to look at.
6. If a single pic is a faff take a short video (most lifting pics in my log like this) and screen-grab an image.

Learning to pose makes a HUGE difference. Why is it worth it? You'll spend a 1000 on PEDs, hundreds of hours training and cardio, go without treats for MONTHS and then, having got into the best shape of your life, stint on holding a pose properly. Again if it's just progress learn 1-2 poses but do them properly

If you DO compete you MUST practice. It's NOT easy. But the trick is to make it LOOK easy. AND posing WILL make muscles pop more. It's exercise all in itself. Silly stuff like eye contact, chin up and looking like you fkin own the pose and the stage (look at fkin me!!) will make you look better and compare better to rivals if all else is equal.

One example of a 'how to'. Front double biceps. Even kids know what 'make a muscle is' and 9/10 this is what they'll do. Ditto if you asked a 90's kid to do a Hulkster pose they'd hit a most muscular.

So on front double - try elbows a little higher (level with the top of the delt) vs straight and level. Turning the first down and in really makes the forearms pop. Now try elbows back if short armed and elbows in (towards the chest) if your arms are too long. One lengthens the appearance and the other shortens it.

It can feel a little 'off' but we dress up for weddings etc so why not look your best for all that effort you're putting in?

Again - PRACTICE.

Looking really amazing on this. This is a good layout on how to correctly post pictures.

 

[Ulter]

You should be a photographer for bodybuilders. I think you definitely have a lot of time on your hands to put together this type of thread but you have the time to do it. Maybe start your own business.

 

[2Thick]

Photography is something that I have always enjoyed personally. I think you make some good points.

 

[Mobster]

Great post here bro, and from a coaches perspective as well, getting consistent with all of the above will paint a much clearer picture and better guide your coach to make the right decisions when it comes to your physique!

If anyone is unsure and wants some pointers you're welcome to kick off by posting on this thread with pictures and myself and others who are knowledgeable can provide some more pointers.

100% this

 

[Mobster]

You should be a photographer for bodybuilders. I think you definitely have a lot of time on your hands to put together this type of thread but you have the time to do it. Maybe start your own business.

I've done weddings but only as a favor. I HAVE done BB pics (inc at shows) but my daily is nature pics

 

[Mobster]

Bros, you should volunteer to oil one of the dudes up and take pictures of them on here.

The local gym owner (who IS gay lol) helps with tans etc as he's competed

 

[Mobster]

I think this is a good post. I know you're anal about photography. A lot of people just aren't good at it or don't care to be good at it. I'm included.

Only anal in so far as some here miss out on presenting themselves better.

One issue is the real world vs social media pics. 'SMILE' cos someone has their phone out vs an actual shot of people being genuinely happy

 

[stevesmi]

Only anal in so far as some here miss out on presenting themselves better.

One issue is the real world vs social media pics. 'SMILE' cos someone has their phone out vs an actual shot of people being genuinely happy

As many things, I just don’t have the patience for it

 

[Mobster]

As many things, I just don’t have the patience for it

Old man syndrome lol. I'm ahead of you on that one.

Spent too many minutes yesterday telling the gripper buyer how I'd already answered all this questions with examples and quotes. Just about stayed polite

 

[stevesmi]

Old man syndrome lol. I'm ahead of you on that one.

Spent too many minutes yesterday telling the gripper buyer how I'd already answered all this questions with examples and quotes. Just about stayed polite

A good idea for a podcast episode

 

[Ulter]

I've done weddings but only as a favor. I HAVE done BB pics (inc at shows) but my daily is nature pics

I don't know why you don't do it. You seem to know a lot about it.

 

[Mobster]

I don't know why you don't do it. You seem to know a lot about it.

Been doing it 20+ years. Started with the rolls of film type. I also worked, as part of another job, with a professional for a week. Taught me loads

 

[Ulter]

Been doing it 20+ years. Started with the rolls of film type. I also worked, as part of another job, with a professional for a week. Taught me loads

I know, I mean why don't you do it as part of a new job, maybe start your own bodybuilding photo business?

 

[ceo]

The local gym owner (who IS gay lol) helps with tans etc as he's competed

Bros, you should join him. I bet you both would enjoy it.

 

[Mobster]

Bros, you should join him. I bet you both would enjoy it.

Implying what?

 

[ceo]

Implying what?

bros implying you like taking pics of bodybuilders

 

[ballin2504]

Very nice post mobster

 

[Mobster]

bros implying you like taking pics of bodybuilders

You're here in this tips thread. Give some tips to site members on taking photos. You do decent ones of yourself

 

[ceo]

You're here in this tips thread. Give some tips to site members on taking photos. You do decent ones of yourself

Bros, honestly I'm horrible with taking pictures. When I was a kid I used to play around with a Polaroid camera but my wife takes my pictures. She is happy to do it.

 

[Mobster]

Bros, honestly I'm horrible with taking pictures. When I was a kid I used to play around with a Polaroid camera but my wife takes my pictures. She is happy to do it.

You've a great one in your profile pic.

Face hidden. Check.
Right level. Check.
Lean. Check.

All I'd change is make it closer

 

[ceo]

You've a great one in your profile pic.

Face hidden. Check.
Right level. Check.
Lean. Check.

All I'd change is make it closer

bros okay will let my wife know