If you’re like most people, standing in front of a camera can feel a little awkward. Even as a brand photographer, the first thing that happens when I get in front of a camera is I forget everything that I know about posing and am all of a sudden very aware of my hands! I’ve been known to shout at other photographers “But where do I put my hands!!”

The goal during a brand photo session is to help you feel so comfortable and at ease that you don’t even have to think about it. (I know this sounds impossible, but hear me out) This isn’t about perfect poses or stiff smiles. It’s about capturing the honest, everyday moments that tell the real story of your business — the work you do, the hands-on tasks you’re passionate about, and the unique life you live.

Here are five simple, natural ways to place your hands that help keep the focus on you and your story, not the pose.

Hands in Pockets: And remember to breathe…

Sliding your hands gently into your pockets is less about posing and more about feeling grounded. It’s a subtle way to relax your body, helping you settle into the moment and forget about the camera. This casual stance often leads to candid, genuine expressions that show your personality.

Holding What You Love: Let Your Hands Tell Your Story

Whether it’s a handful of seed, a coffee cup, a tool, or a favorite product, holding something real connects your hands to your work. It gives your hands purpose and helps the camera catch the essence of your day-to-day life. When your hands are busy with something meaningful, your smile and eyes can shine without effort.

Brushing Back Hair, Moving your Dress, or Adjusting Your Hat — Small Movements that Speak Volumes

These small, natural motions—like brushing back hair or adjusting your hat—bring life and softness to your photos. They’re authentic, unplanned gestures that happen when you’re relaxed and engaged in your environment. These moments create images that feel like snapshots from your everyday story.

Arms Resting or Leaning: Comfortable and Approachable

Resting your hands lightly on a fencepost, a counter, or your knees while leaning in slightly invites connection. It shows you’re present and engaged, it looks less like you are posing for a picture and more as though you were caught in a moment of thoughtful pause.

Moving Hands Naturally: Don’t Worry About Stillness

The best photos often come when your hands are in motion, whether that’s gesturing while telling your story or simply shifting as you move around your workspace. Capturing those natural shifts helps your photos feel alive and true to you. the photo below of my hands with a coffee cup is one of my favourites if you know me you know I am a hand talker and this captures me better than a headshot ever could.

The Key: Giving Your Hands Something to do

While it’s nearly impossible to forget the camera is there, having your hands doing something natural, whether it’s holding a tool, resting lightly, or just moving as you talk, makes it easier to relax and be yourself. When your hands have a purpose, your photos stop feeling like a posed picture and start feeling like moments from your real day.

The best brand photos come when you’re busy doing what you love and not worrying about the camera. Capturing the perfect images is my job After all!

Ready to have photos that feel real and tell your story without the awkward “what do I do with my hands?” moments? Let’s make it happen — you bring the passion, and we’ll catch the rest.