WHAT YOU’RE REALLY SAYING IN YOUR PHOTOS
The power of body language
They say body language speaks louder than words—and after spending years both behind and in front of the camera, I couldn’t agree more.
Think about that bombastic side-eye you threw at Karen the other day. Yeah, that said more than any snappy comeback ever could. The truth is, how we move, stand, and our facial expressions are where the real conversation happens.
Some studies suggest that during a conversation, over 90% of communication is nonverbal. And in photography, well… it’s 100%. There are no words, only what your body is saying.
The challenge comes when reality doesn’t quite match the photo. Like when you're genuinely having a blast, but the second someone pulls out a camera, you freeze. Suddenly, instead of saying, “I’m having fun!” your body language screams, “I’m being held hostage.
In photos, something as small as shifting your weight to one leg can communicate ease and confidence, while standing stiff with your arms by your sides might send the message that you’re feeling uncomfortable or tense. It’s subtle, but it makes all the difference in how a photo feels. We’re wired to pick up on these cues, whether we realize it or not.
Back in the day, photography was reserved for the elite. Then, it became something for special occasions, but now, it’s everywhere. Whether we like it or not, it's how we communicate—with friends, family, or strangers.
But this isn’t about faking it. Not only is that exhausting, it’s unfulfilling. It’s about discovering how to showcase your authentic self through the lens, telling your story in your way. And yes, that includes body language, what you wear, the lighting you choose, and the photo techniques you explore.
That’s exactly what Photogenic is all about. I’ve taken my knowledge as a fashion photographer and adapted it to today’s trends. Every Friday, I share actionable tips and thoughtful discussions—designed to help you not only look incredible but also feel amazing in photos.
With the holiday season around the corner, I’m preparing a series of articles on capturing stunning holiday photos exclusively for paid subscribers. If you’ve enjoyed this read, consider subscribing for just $5 per month—you can cancel at any time.
Thanks for reading.
With love,
Bonnie
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