How to Pose for Pictures on the Red Carpet (Like a Boss)!
- Sam Felman
- Nov 2, 2025
- 3 min read
As a photographer for red carpet events, I've seen some people scramble because they don't know how to pose. Here are some quick poses (and examples) so you can pose on the red carpet like a boss!
Quick Tips
Calm your nerves first. Take a deep breath through your nose, then slowly let it out through your mouth and a couple seconds. Do this 3 times, then step out onto the carpet. Remember, you've got this!
Smile with your eyes. Imagine your best friend or significant other behind the lens. This creates confidence and the camera loves it.
Don't say 'cheese.' Say 'prunes!' I know it's weird, but the word 'prunes' tightens lips and raises cheekbones, as opposed to 'cheese' that makes you look like Wallis and Gromit.
Light in your eyes is good. Strictly from an artistic perspective, light shrinks your pupils and allows more color in your eyes. Also, bright light makes you squint which hides forehead wrinkles. If you have a hard time with bright lights, try focusing your eyes on the darkest part of the lens in front of you. This should help you manage temporarily during picture-taking.
Look into the lens: This might sound obvious but most modeling mishaps happen because the subject doesn't know where to look. Always keep your eyes on the photographer, especially in group pictures where there's a lot going on. Eyes forward, chin level and say, "Prunes!"
And with that, here are my favorite poses!
1. The Crossed Legs
Think of this as the standing version of the classic seated cross-legged pose. Perfect for making any dress look chic, even the shortest minis, it tricks the eye into slimming the legs.
Hotness: Medium
Difficulty: 2
Good for: Slimming the legs, adding a demure touch to short or long dresses.
2. The Diagonal
This pose is fantastic for floor-length gowns. Angle your left thigh diagonally across the right, creating a subtle curve at the waist that flatters the body. Pair this with a hand-on-hip for extra flair. Perfect for showing off a dramatic train.
Hotness: Hot
Difficulty: 3
Good for: Floor-length gowns, showing off curves, waist definition, and dramatic trains.
3. Hands-in-Pockets
Perfect for all genders, slip your hands in your pockets and instantly create a look of relaxation and confidence. Hides awkward arms, though if you are self conscious of your biceps, make sure they are not touching your body.
Hotness: Medium
Difficulty: 1
Good for: Casual, relaxed vibes; hiding awkward arms.
4. The T-Rex
Enter the T-Rex. Great for all gendars. Bend your arms slightly at the elbows, meeting at your midsection as if holding an invisible mini bag. Keep hands straight for a traditionally more feminine look. Casual, flattering, and a perfect way to showcase rings and bracelets.
Hotness: Mild
Difficulty: 1
Good for: Keeping hands busy, showing off jewelry, maintaining a casual stance.
5. Hand on Hip
The ultimate red carpet classic. Place one hand lightly on your hip, typically your “good side,” with a soft elbow bend. Keep shoulders back for a poised, natural look.
Hotness: Medium
Difficulty: 2
Good for: Poised, flattering look; works for nearly any dress or outfit.
6. Double Hand on Hip
For commanding attention, bring both hands to your hips. Posture is important. Stand tall with your shoulders back at a natural position. This pose is all confidence.
Hotness: Hot
Difficulty: 3
Good for: Commanding attention; perfect for major events or statement outfits.
7. Look Back at It
Perfect for backless dresses or figure-hugging silhouettes. Step your dominant foot forward, curve your mid-back, then give a coy glance over your shoulder. Remember you must be able to see the camera with both eyes, and a little bit of a turn goes a long way.
Hotness: Hot
Difficulty: 3
Good for: Backless dresses, figure-hugging hems, creating a subtle, mysterious vibe.
8. The Thigh Rest
A softer alternative to the hand-on-hip. Stagger one foot forward and rest a hand lightly on your thigh. This elongates both arms and legs, giving a tall, streamlined effect.
Hotness: Medium
Difficulty: 2
Good for: Elongating arms and legs, flattering tall and lean appearance.
Bonus Guide:
Here are two simple guides for full body posing:
How are you feeling?
You've got this! If you have time to practice, have a friend take pictures of you on your phone so you can see what works and what doesn't. Not every picture is going to be amazing, but repetition with posing helps and learning how your body photographs from different angles tells you what you can do for yourself next time.
More in-depth tips, tutorials, and guide are coming soon. Thank you for reading.
Sam Felman
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