A great pose can be the difference between a “pretty good” photo and an image that truly inspires and makes you say wow. Seated poses have long been a favorite in the photography world: they often look natural, bring calmness into the frame, and offer endless creative variety. Whether you’re a professional model or you’ve booked a branding shoot for your business, seated poses shine even more beautifully in the daylight studio at Atelier Oost Amsterdam—thanks to the soft, natural light.
Whether you’re a photographer looking for inspiration or a model preparing for a shoot, here are our best ideas for seated poses, complete with practical tips.
Whether you’re a photographer looking for inspiration or a model preparing for a shoot, here are our best ideas for seated poses, complete with practical tips.
The best seated poses for studio shoots
1. The classic chair pose
A chair is perhaps the most versatile prop in our daylight studio. Did you know we have many stylish options, including unique chrome and vintage pieces? This allows you to create a different look every time. The model can sit upright with a strong, elegant posture, or lean back casually. For a bolder, more modern effect, try turning the chair around.
Extra tip: Experiment with arm placement—one hand under the chin, an elbow on the backrest. Subtle variations can make a big difference.
A chair is perhaps the most versatile prop in our daylight studio. Did you know we have many stylish options, including unique chrome and vintage pieces? This allows you to create a different look every time. The model can sit upright with a strong, elegant posture, or lean back casually. For a bolder, more modern effect, try turning the chair around.
Extra tip: Experiment with arm placement—one hand under the chin, an elbow on the backrest. Subtle variations can make a big difference.
2. Sitting on the floor for a relaxed look
One of the most popular pose ideas is sitting on the floor. It creates a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that works beautifully for branding shoots or portrait photography. Think crossed legs, reclining slightly, or playing with a prop like a book or a stylish coffee cup.
One of the most popular pose ideas is sitting on the floor. It creates a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that works beautifully for branding shoots or portrait photography. Think crossed legs, reclining slightly, or playing with a prop like a book or a stylish coffee cup.
3. Leaning against a wall
A wall is a simple way to add balance to a photo. Sitting against the wall can be minimalist or playful, making it especially effective for lookbook shoots or artistic fashion projects. Don’t assume a wall has to be boring: we’ve enriched our studios with unique paint colors and textures! For example, discover the exclusive paint from Art In Return in collaboration with The Farm, featured in our studio The Playground. It’s a one-of-a-kind backdrop you won’t find anywhere else.
Are you a fan of a natural look? Wooden walls are a huge trend in interior design, so we just had to add them to our studios. The Loft and The Livingroom have both been enhanced with a Seventies look wooden wall, and this creates a warm yet sleek, luxurious effect on screen. Such a wooden wall requires minimal styling, allowing you to be the centre of attention. Beautiful with minimalist styling!
4. Asymmetry for playfulness
Not every pose needs to be symmetrical. Place one foot flat on the ground and bend the other leg slightly upward. This creates interesting lines and playful dynamics; perfect for an editorial or fashion shoot.
5. Seated close-up details
Seated poses are excellent for close-ups. Think hands resting loosely on knees, a face partially hidden behind an arm, or detail shots of posture and texture. These kinds of images perform especially well on Pinterest thanks to their personal feel.
A wall is a simple way to add balance to a photo. Sitting against the wall can be minimalist or playful, making it especially effective for lookbook shoots or artistic fashion projects. Don’t assume a wall has to be boring: we’ve enriched our studios with unique paint colors and textures! For example, discover the exclusive paint from Art In Return in collaboration with The Farm, featured in our studio The Playground. It’s a one-of-a-kind backdrop you won’t find anywhere else.
Are you a fan of a natural look? Wooden walls are a huge trend in interior design, so we just had to add them to our studios. The Loft and The Livingroom have both been enhanced with a Seventies look wooden wall, and this creates a warm yet sleek, luxurious effect on screen. Such a wooden wall requires minimal styling, allowing you to be the centre of attention. Beautiful with minimalist styling!
4. Asymmetry for playfulness
Not every pose needs to be symmetrical. Place one foot flat on the ground and bend the other leg slightly upward. This creates interesting lines and playful dynamics; perfect for an editorial or fashion shoot.
5. Seated close-up details
Seated poses are excellent for close-ups. Think hands resting loosely on knees, a face partially hidden behind an arm, or detail shots of posture and texture. These kinds of images perform especially well on Pinterest thanks to their personal feel.
6. Posing with props
A chair or sofa is a classic, but modern props like a pedestal, a striking vase, or even a mirror can be just as engaging. Props add context and make it easier for a model to pose naturally. Every prop in our studios is carefully selected: playful shapes, handmade objects, interesting textures, and designer vintage. You won’t see them anywhere else.
7. Editorial vs. Casual seated looks
Editorial: Strong postures, upright back, intense eye contact, and sharp lines. Perfect for fashion photography. Casual: Relaxed poses, such as leaning back, gazing out the window, or playing with clothing, curtains, or props. This style feels more personal and natural.
A chair or sofa is a classic, but modern props like a pedestal, a striking vase, or even a mirror can be just as engaging. Props add context and make it easier for a model to pose naturally. Every prop in our studios is carefully selected: playful shapes, handmade objects, interesting textures, and designer vintage. You won’t see them anywhere else.
7. Editorial vs. Casual seated looks
FAQs About seated poses
1. What are the easiest seated poses for beginners?
Start with a chair or sit on the floor with crossed legs. These feel natural and are easy to capture.
2. Which clothing works well for seated poses?
Flowy fabrics like linen or silk drape beautifully. Fitted clothing, on the other hand, highlights body lines. Above all, choose comfortable outfits so the model can move naturally.
3. How do you avoid stiffness in seated poses?
Encourage movement between shots: shifting weight, running a hand through the hair, or looking away briefly. Motion creates a more natural result.
4. Are seated poses suitable for small studios?
Absolutely! Because they require less space, seated poses are ideal for smaller studios or close-up shoots.
Creative freedom in our daylight studio
The daylight studio at Atelier Oost Amsterdam is the place to experiment with seated poses. Natural light makes images softer and more versatile. Whether you’re aiming for an intimate portrait or a powerful fashion shoot, seated poses open up endless possibilities.
Pinterest tip: Create a mood board with your favorite poses before the shoot and bring it along. This way, you can experiment while making sure you’ll leave with inspiring results.
Pinterest tip: Create a mood board with your favorite poses before the shoot and bring it along. This way, you can experiment while making sure you’ll leave with inspiring results.