Aerial arts are breathtaking to watch, but capturing their essence in a still image requires more than just skill—it requires intentional posing, body awareness, and an understanding of movement dynamics. Whether you’re preparing for a professional aerial photoshoot or just looking to improve how you present yourself in photos, this guide will equip you with essential tips to make your poses pop.
However, here’s the caveat: some of the best images aren’t posed at all. While having strong poses is valuable, often the most captivating moments are the ones that happen naturally—mid-movement, in a spontaneous smile, or in the raw emotion of a drop. That’s exactly the kind of magic we co-create during our sessions (aerial and otherwise) and it’s the shining star our coveted Escape Artist Retreat in Portugal, which will surely please- it’s hosted at The House of Honey, afterall. If you want to experience a photography session that blends documentary-style storytelling with breathtaking aerial artistry, you’re our people.
Aerial Photoshoot Posing Tips
1. Know Your Best Angles
Every aerialist has strengths, and knowing your best angles can make a dramatic difference in how your photos turn out. Consider:
- Do you have an impressive toe point? Emphasize leg extension.
- Do you have a strong backbend? Arching poses will highlight this.
- Is your flexibility your strength? Poses that showcase your splits, backbends, or dynamic lines will elevate your shots.
💡 Pro tip: Practice in front of a mirror or record short videos of your movements to discover your most photogenic angles.
2. Elongate Your Lines
Aerial photography is all about line clarity and body extension. Some key ways to make your lines longer and stronger include:
- Fully extending through your fingers and toes.
- Keeping knees soft but intentional (no unintentional micro-bends!).
- Engaging your core to create a more controlled and fluid pose.
💡 Even in stillness, imagine the energy extending beyond your fingertips and toes—it makes a visible difference!
3. Play With Negative Space
Negative space—the open area around your body—can make or break a shot. Think about how your arms and legs are positioned in relation to the apparatus and your body:
- Avoid keeping limbs too close together; slight separation creates definition.
- Open up the space between your torso and arms to prevent a “squashed” look.
- Think dynamically—diagonal lines often create a more compelling visual than straight or parallel ones.
4. The Power of Micro-Adjustments
Sometimes, the smallest tweaks can turn a good shot into a stunning one. Micro-adjustments to consider:
- Rotate your wrists slightly outward to soften hands.
- Tilt your chin subtly for a more elegant neck line.
- Adjust your foot flex or toe point to perfect a shape.
📸 A great aerialist focused photography team will guide you through these adjustments, but being aware of them yourself is a game-changer!
5. Use the Apparatus to Your Advantage
Your apparatus—whether it’s a hoop, silks, straps, or hammock—is part of your story. Use it creatively:
- Lyra: Play with depth—wrap inside, balance above, or create stunning negative space below.
- Silks: Utilize fabric tension to highlight strength, or let them flow for a softer, dreamy effect.
- Hammock: Experiment with suspension poses to bring dynamic energy to still shots.
Unposed Moments: Where the Magic Happens
Now that we’ve covered strong aerial photoshoot posing techniques, let’s talk about what truly makes a photo unforgettable: unposed moments.
Some of the most breathtaking aerial photos happen mid-movement—when you’re in the midst of a powerful drop, caught in laughter, or absorbed in your performance. I love to capture the rawness, beauty, and authenticity of you in your element.
That’s why when you book a photoshoot with me or come along to the aerial retreat in portugal, you’ll experience what is *basically* a week long session. Sure, here and there we will snap a few traditional shots, but my take on a portfolio is MUCH more than just static posing. It’s about storytelling, artistry, and emotion. Corny as it sounds- that’s the CATWALK, redefined.
Final Thoughts
Posing for your aerial photoshoot is an art, but the true magic lies in a balance between intentional posing and organic, in-the-moment movement. Whether you’re refining your angles, creating strong lines, or embracing the beauty of unposed moments, remember: your unique energy is what makes your photos extraordinary.
📸 Want to capture your aerial artistry in a way that feels both powerful and authentic? Book a session or join The Escape Artist Retreat for a portfolio playground week unlike any other!
