How Nonverbal Cues Elevate Professional Portrait Photography

Photography is more than just capturing a moment; it is about conveying a message. Whether for brand photography or dating photos, our nonverbal cues can determine how others perceive us. In Cues by Vanessa Van Edwards, we learn how subtle gestures, expressions, and body language influence first impressions.

At Odette Photo+Art, I use these principles to help create portraits that exude confidence, warmth, and authenticity.


1. The Power of a Genuine Smile

One of the most important cues in portrait photography is the smile, which involves both the mouth and the eyes. A forced or overly staged smile can appear inauthentic, whereas a genuine smile—where the corners of the mouth lift naturally and the eyes crinkle slightly—communicates warmth, trust, and approachability.


How to Achieve It:

  • Think of a happy memory or engage in light conversation with the photographer.
  • Relax your jaw and avoid clenching your teeth.
  • Use a slight squint in the eyes to create a more natural, engaging look.

2. Open and Confident Body Language

Posture speaks volumes in professional portraits. Van Edwards emphasizes that open body language—where the chest is slightly expanded, shoulders are relaxed, and arms remain uncrossed—creates an image of confidence and approachability.


Key Tips for Professional Photos:

  • Stand or sit upright with shoulders pulled back slightly.
  • Avoid crossing arms, which may signal defensiveness.
  • Angle the body slightly to add depth and dimension to the portrait.

3. Eye Contact for Connection

Strong eye contact in photos conveys trust and engagement. When posing for a branding or dating portrait, direct eye contact with the camera creates an immediate connection with the viewer.


How to Enhance Eye Contact:

  • Keep your gaze soft, avoiding an intense or rigid stare.
  • If full eye contact feels uncomfortable, look slightly above the lens while maintaining a relaxed expression.
  • Experiment with a slight head tilt to add depth and expressiveness to the eyes.

4. Microexpressions That Elevate Portraits

Microexpressions are brief facial expressions that reveal genuine emotions. In Cues, Van Edwards highlights how subtle changes in expression—like a slight eyebrow raise or a knowing smirk—can make an image feel more authentic and engaging.


How to Use Microexpressions Effectively:

  • For brand photography, a soft, confident smile combined with relaxed brows conveys approachability and professionalism.
  • In dating photos, a slight smirk or playful gaze can add intrigue and warmth.
  • Avoid overly exaggerated expressions, as they can appear unnatural on camera.

5. Using Hand Gestures for Charisma

Hand positioning can significantly influence the energy of a portrait. According to Cues, gestures that feel natural and intentional can add warmth and charisma to an image.


Best Hand Placement Tips:

  • In branding portraits, place hands on the hips or in pockets to create a relaxed, open stance.
  • For dating portraits, holding an object (like a cup of coffee) can add a natural and effortless feel.
  • Avoid tense, clenched hands or awkwardly stiff arms.

6. The Right Wardrobe for Authority and Influence

Clothing plays a major role in nonverbal communication. Vanessa suggests that structured attire, rich colors, and well-fitted clothing convey authority and confidence.


Wardrobe Tips for Professional Portraits:

  • Wear colors that complement skin tone and enhance facial features.
  • Avoid overly busy patterns that can distract from the face.
  • For brand photography, opt for clean, structured outfits that reflect professionalism.
  • In dating photos, choose outfits that feel natural and authentic to your personal style.


Conclusion

Applying Vanessa Van Edwards' principles from Cues can elevate any professional portrait session.

By focusing on authentic smiles, confident posture, strong eye contact, microexpressions, natural hand gestures, and strategic wardrobe choices, subjects can create compelling portraits that leave a lasting impression.

Whether for business or dating, the right nonverbal cues can transform a simple photograph into a powerful statement. Mastering these cues ensures that your images project confidence, warmth, and authenticity, making them more impactful and effective. 


If you are looking for dating coaching, check Dating by Blaine.

If you need brand or dating portraits, send me a DM