Posing
Arrangement rather than posing: where the object sits, what it sits on, and what the light does to its surface.
In short: Arrangement rather than posing: where the object sits, what it sits on, and what the light does to its surface.
For anything flat or symmetrical, and for size comparisons.
The default hero angle for most objects.
A visible shadow anchors the object; a floating product looks cut out because it usually is.
Odd numbers, varied heights, overlapping slightly.
Hand in frame, product forward and sharp.
For flat lays and anything with a top face worth seeing.
Cutting out every product onto pure white with no shadow, which is the standard marketplace look and also the reason so many listings look identical and cheap.
Mixing lighting setups across a catalogue, so no two products match. Removing the shadow entirely. Shooting glossy items without controlling reflections. And skipping the scale reference, which is the single most common reason for returns.
Begin with straight-on, centred, then move into three-quarter, slightly above once everyone is comfortable. Finish with from directly above, when expressions and movement are usually least self-conscious. The sequence matters more than copying a fixed shape: each pose should give the subject a simple action.
The 6 setups in this guide are enough for a varied gallery. Each setup can produce a full-length frame, a three-quarter portrait and a close detail without changing the idea. It is better to develop a few useful setups than rush through a long list that never settles.
Give the hands a job: adjust a cuff, hold fabric lightly, touch another person, carry a prop or let one arm move during a walk. Keep fingers relaxed and avoid pressing a palm flat against the body. Mariya directs these small changes during the session, so there is nothing to memorise.
Cutting out every product onto pure white with no shadow, which is the standard marketplace look and also the reason so many listings look identical and cheap. The practical test is whether the position can breathe and move. If it only works while held rigidly, it will normally look arranged rather than observed.