Traditional

• The traditional setup creates a classic photo that is seen in many presidential portraits. To begin, place a chair in front of the backdrop facing the right or left side in a 45 degree angle. The body should not directly face the camera since this will create a pose that is awkward and stiff.
  
  Direct the subject to sit straight up with two-thirds of the head facing the camera. The head should be very slightly cocked to the side of the shoulder that is farther from the camera giving the subject a more masculine pose. By contrast, a woman's head would usually be tilted to the shoulder closer to the camera for a demure pose.
  
  For a standing pose, the subject should stand with the body slightly facing the right or left. Arms should not hang down as if the person doesn't know what to do with them. Instead, let the joints bend a little by letting him place one hand in the pants pocket and the other hand resting on a chair, which should be at pocket height. The leg on the side with hand in pocket should come forward with knees bending a little. The foot of the other leg should point slightly outward. Most of the weight should rest on the back leg, which is closer to the chair. The head can be slightly cocked to one side.
  
  

Casual

• The casual sitting pose works well with younger subjects. Place a stool in front of the backdrop. Direct the boy to sit on the edge with both feet firmly planted on the ground, legs apart. His body should lean forward with elbows resting above the knees, and fingers linked loosely together. The head should tilt slightly upward, and make sure the shoulders are not slouched.
  
  For a standing position, direct the subject to stand on his side with hands in pocket, legs shoulder width apart. The foot closer to the camera should point outward with knees slightly bent. The head should face the front with the jaws slightly pointing upward, away from the shoulders.
  
  

Playful

• For a playful portrait, shoot from above the subject so that he is looking up and facing the camera. His head should tilt a little to the left or to the right.