Portrait photography is an art that has been around for centuries, and it is still very relevant in modern times. One of the crucial aspects of portrait photography is representation. It is essential to have representation of all people in portrait photography, including female couples. It is important to create professional imagery of Black and brown couples in general, as they are often underrepresented in media.
In the past, the media has often failed to represent the LGBTQ+ community accurately, and it is essential to have more positive examples of girl couples in the media. The representation of female couples in portrait photography can help to create more visibility and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. It also helps to break down harmful stereotypes and biases that exist in society. This type of representation can be empowering for individuals who may feel marginalized or invisible.
One example of positive representation is the popular Netflix series, "Master of None." The show features a lesbian couple played by Lena Waithe and Naomi Ackie. The characters are portrayed as complex individuals who are not defined solely by their sexuality. This type of representation is important because it helps to show that LGBTQ+ people are just like everyone else, and their sexuality is only one aspect of who they are.
It is also important to create professional imagery of Black and brown couples in general. Historically, people of color have been underrepresented in media, and when they are represented, it is often through harmful stereotypes. Creating professional imagery of Black and brown couples can help to break down these stereotypes and show the diversity that exists within these communities.
Fortunately, underrepresented communities have taken control of their own narratives through social media platforms. With the advent of social media, people have the power to create and share their own content, giving them the ability to control their own narratives. This has been especially empowering for underrepresented communities, who have often been excluded from mainstream media.
As a photographer, you have the power to contribute to positive representation by creating professional imagery of female couples and Black and brown couples. Here are ten couple photo poses from Pinterest to get you started:
Classic pose: Have the couple stand close together, with the person in the back wrapping their arms around the waist of the person in front. They can look at the camera or at each other.
Forehead-to-forehead: Have the couple stand close together, touching foreheads. This is a sweet and intimate pose.
Dancing together: Have the couple dance together in the studio. This can be a romantic and playful pose.
Lying down together: Have the couple lie down together on the studio floor, with their heads propped up on their elbows. This can be a relaxed and intimate pose.
Sitting on a bench: Have the couple sit close together on a bench, or apple boxes with their arms around each other. This can be a romantic and classic pose.
Embrace from behind: Have one person stand behind the other, embracing them from behind. This can be a tender and loving pose.
Kissing under a tree: Create a studio set that looks like a park, complete with a fake tree. Have the couple stand or sit under the tree and share a kiss. This can be a romantic and playful pose.
Piggyback ride: Have the person in front jump onto the back of the person in back for a playful and fun pose.
Nose-to-nose: Have the couple stand close together, touching noses. This can be a sweet and intimate pose.
Walking hand-in-hand: Have the couple walk together hand-in-hand, looking at each other or at the camera. This can be a classic and romantic pose.
When approaching prospective couples to get them interested in a shoot, it is important to be respectful and understanding. Start by introducing yourself and explaining what type of photography you specialize in. If the couple seems interested, explain your vision for the shoot and how you would like to represent them. Make sure to discuss any concerns or boundaries they may have and be open to their input.
In conclusion, representation in portrait photography is essential, and it is important to create professional imagery of all people, including lesbian couples and Black and brown couples. By doing so, we can help to break down harmful stereotypes and biases and create a more inclusive society. As a photographer, you have the power to contribute to positive representation, and it is crucial to approach prospective couples with respect and understanding.