Proper pocket technique for models

Putting your hands in your pocket is a logical choice for something to do with those pesky hands.  Not only does it give your hands something to do, and there’s the added bonus of adding some shape to your silhouette created by your arms and elbows.

There is a right and wrong way for a model to put their hands in their pockets.  Notice how the model’s arms appear to end in little stumps just above the pocket.  Her hands are just a little too far into the pockets.  It’s better to not put them is so far as to hide the shape of the hand protruding from pockets.

One technique many models favor is to just place the hands in the pocket far enough so that the thumbs stick out.  The bent wrists also help in giving a relaxed, at-ease feel to the photo.  Notice also how the bent arm gives some nice shape to the form of the body.

Usually, it’s not a good idea for both hands to be doing the same thing in a photo.  The asymmetry of one hand in the pocket and one hand hanging to her side, is usually preferable.

Another way to incorporate the pockets in your pose is to simply hook your thumbs in them.  Notice in the photo below how the wrists naturally bend in this pose and the fingers hang gracefully, adding to the relaxed look of the model.