seenfieldnotesPublic library

Photography, made practical

Knowledge worth taking into the field.

A deliberately published collection of lessons, working methods, and practical references from seen photographs.

01

Every note is selected for public reading. Private shoots, contacts, captures, source files, transcripts, drafts, and personal notes never appear here.

The public shelf

Field notes

1 entry
1 result
01Difficulty 3/10
LightingSoftboxes

Create shape by adjusting the subject’s spine

A small, intentional change in the spine can replace a stiff vertical posture with a more dimensional portrait while keeping the subject comfortable.

Why it matters

Posture changes the energy, silhouette, and confidence communicated by a portrait.

When to use it

Portraits and headshots where the subject appears rigid or square to camera.

In practice

  1. 01

    Ask the subject to shift weight onto the back foot.

  2. 02

    Create a gentle curve through the spine rather than forcing a dramatic bend.

  3. 03

    Recheck shoulders, chin, comfort, and clothing before shooting.

catchlightsfeatheringheadshotsindoor portraits

Sources & attribution

Roberto Valenzuela · Picture Perfect Posing lesson · 12:40

Sue Bryce · Portrait posing lesson · Lesson 3