Here at ShootDotEdit, we specialize in wedding photo editing services for pro photographers. We also provide valuable resources that help you with your photography. In previous posts, we talked about a few essential tips for how to take the richest, most natural, and memorable images when shooting the engagement session or posing the bridesmaids. This week, we are again focusing on the art of wedding photography poses by sharing 3 tricks to better groomsmen poses.
We know that the bride gets most of the attention on the big day, but it is important not to discount the groom. After all, there wouldn’t be a wedding without both of them, and the rules for posing the women do not always apply when posing the men. No matter what the wedding attire, the guys have spent time and money to look their best. Plus, one of the best ways to make the bride happy is to make her husband look good! Here are a few ways to make posing the groomsmen a breeze.
Focus on the Details
Focusing on details is just as important for both men and women. Just because they are men doesn’t mean you should be any less concerned with the details. Make sure they have their boutonnieres on and straight. Check that their jackets are lying appropriately. Remember that, oftentimes, they may not wear suits or tuxes. Your signature style can aid you as you utilize the details of both their clothes and the environment. They will appreciate your trained eye to know they are looking their best. (The bride will appreciate it too!).
Image by Lin & Jirsa Photography
Remember to include wedding groomsmen poses with any interesting props that they might have. Whether they are wearing sunglasses, pocket watches, cuff links, or crazy socks, these are details that were important enough to include and shouldn’t be overlooked. In fact, these details can be used to your advantage when taking photos. Another important tip is to make sure to minimize any distractions or disturbances in these photos.
Capture a stunning detail shot of his customized cuff links in front of a clean background with minimal distractions. Each detail can be used to complement the groomsmen pictures by adding elements of uniqueness and diversity in each appearance. Your attention to these little things will mean a lot to the couple when they see your final product.[ninja-inline id=14011]
Let the Boys be Boys
Remember that it is different than shooting the girls. Pick poses that will make the men look masculine, and keep them moving! Guys look great in action. Have poses that show the groomsmen engaged in conversation, or putting on an accessory like a watch, for example. Moving them around can keep them relaxed and natural. It is also beneficial to enlist the more outgoing guys to get everyone laughing. These guys can ensure that all the other groomsmen stay relaxed. When everyone is having a great time, laughter can become quite contagious.
The rule of keeping it candid is as just as ideal for the groomsmen. They know each other better than you know them, so there’s sure to be one guy who can draw out the natural smiles and laughter. Like the bridesmaids, the guys also have different personalities that deserve to shine through in these photos. Keep in mind that you’re capturing some of the most memorable moments in their lives. It’s important that your images showcase the fun they had taking photos with you.
Techie Tip
Be mindful of the lighting of the environment. According to photographer Mariza Dunham Gasper, while natural lighting works well, artificial light from a room can be just as effective. Don’t be afraid to play around with different lighting situations to create stunning photos!
Pay attention to your exposure as well. So often the men are in black suits or tuxedos. The camera will naturally want to over-expose the image because of all the dark fabric. (If you forget, that is where we at ShootDotEdit have you covered!)
Sometimes adding some off-camera flash provides just the added touch needed. Take a peak at our Online Training: Off-Camera Flash with Zach and Jody Gray for techniques to add to your off camera lighting skills.
Make the Groom the Center of Attention
It is always important to make the groom the center of attention. Make the groom look good! Make it a point to focus on making him look his best. Whether they are standing still or walking, have the groom in the center of his groomsmen so your eyes are drawn to him. Using the groomsmen to accommodate him in the background is also very important. If he’s shorter, try having all of his groomsmen sitting around him. If he’s larger, try getting on that second-story balcony and shooting downwards to thin him out. Always make sure to pose the groom in a way that makes him look amazing and the focal point of the images.
Understanding how to make sure that the men look their best will help the day move smoothly and your shots come naturally. You do this all the time, and chances are, your couple does not. Don’t forget your signature style when bringing the most out of the groom in your photos. The soon-to-be newlyweds will look back at your photos and remember their experience with you as your uniqueness will cause them to relive one of the happiest days of their lives. Most importantly, always remember to have fun and let your passion flow. Be the expert, and let your skills guide them into getting the best shots possible!
Shooting the groomsmen will be a breeze once you master the art of posing. For additional wedding poses ideas for creating stunning images, download our Posing for Wedding Photographers Guide by clicking on the banner below!
This is cool! Of course we want stunning images after the wedding.