Ideas

Pose & occasion ideas

Pose ideas for people and occasions (birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, festivals, reunions, parties), each with angle, composition, camera settings, positioning and AI guidance.

Pose ideas · Ideas for all 30 presets

Simple poses for solo portraits, couples, parents and kids, families, friends, maternity and elders, plus occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, festivals, reunions and celebrations. Every card shows six fields: the photo, camera angle, composition, camera settings (lens, ShotSet preset and Pro values), where to stand, and one simple AI guidance line. Photos are real, freely licensed photos (not taken with ShotSet); see Photo credits.

Prompt actions (“walk towards me”, “whisper a joke”) rather than stiff poses.
Use the 2x/3x lens for flattering portraits; keep the phone at eye level.
Want to be in the family photo? Prop the phone up and use the 3s/10s timer.
Repeat one photo in the same spot every year to see the kids grow.

PeopleOccasions

Solo: man

Arms crossed, soft background

Relax the shoulders and cross arms loosely; a small smile keeps it friendly. Step them away from the background for blur.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2–3 m away; subject 2 m in front of the background.
AI guidance: “Relax your shoulders and cross your arms loosely.”

Solo: man

Lean back and relax

Seat him at a table, hands behind the head or on the table; shoot slightly from the side.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer at the table end, a little to one side; subject seated.
AI guidance: “Lean back and put your hands behind your head.”

Solo: man

Small figure, big place

Put the person small on a rock or ridge for scale; a bright jacket stands out.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Landscape (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 100, EV -0.3
DSLR: 13 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 15–30 m back; subject on a ridge or rock.
AI guidance: “Stand on the rock and face the view.”

Solo: woman

Looking off camera

Ask her to look towards the light or something interesting; catch the moment between poses.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2 m away, slightly to the side; subject facing the light.
AI guidance: “Look towards the window light.”

Solo: woman

Doing something

Give her an action, such as taking a photo or reading a sign; it looks natural, not posed.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~50 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 50 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 3 m to the side; subject busy with an activity.
AI guidance: “Carry on what you are doing and ignore the camera.”

Solo: woman

Hand on hip, warm smile

Weight on the back foot, one hand on the hip; indoor lamps give warm light.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 3 m away; subject 1 m from a lamp.
AI guidance: “Put your weight on your back foot and a hand on your hip.”

Couples

Close embrace, looking at each other

Foreheads or noses close, eyes on each other; let them laugh between shots.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2–3 m away to the side; couple facing each other.
AI guidance: “Move closer until your foreheads almost touch.”

Couples

Arm in arm on a street

Ask them to walk slowly and talk; a textured wall makes a good background.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: Front camera (~25 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 25 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 4 m ahead on the pavement; couple walking towards and past.
AI guidance: “Link arms and walk slowly while you talk.”

Couples

Coffee on the sofa

Sit them close with mugs, turned towards each other; window light from the side.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer seated opposite the sofa; window to one side.
AI guidance: “Turn towards each other and hold your mugs.”

Couples

The kitchen hug

A hug from behind or a side squeeze while cooking feels real and warm.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer at the kitchen doorway; couple at the counter.
AI guidance: “Hug from behind while one of you keeps cooking.”

Father & son

Sunset walk silhouette

Shoot them walking hand in hand towards the sun; expose for the sky.

Camera angle: Low angle
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Sunset (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV -0.6
DSLR: 24 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer behind them, crouched low; sun ahead of them.
AI guidance: “Hold hands and walk towards the sun.”

Father & son

Teach me

Dad shows a skill (guitar, cooking, cycling); photograph the son watching.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 2 m to the side so both faces show.
AI guidance: “Dad, show him how; son, watch his hands.”

Father & son

Cheek to cheek

Baby against dad’s face, dad eyes closed or smiling; get close.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1 m away using the tele lens.
AI guidance: “Hold the baby cheek to cheek and close your eyes.”

Father & son

On the shoulders

Child on dad’s shoulders; shoot from slightly below for a big-sky feel.

Camera angle: Low angle
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer kneeling 3 m in front; child on dad’s shoulders.
AI guidance: “Lift him onto your shoulders and both look up.”

Father & son

Side by side, same activity

Fishing, watching boats, sitting on a wall: both facing the same way tells a story.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: Front camera (~25 mm equiv.) · Landscape (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 100, EV -0.3
DSLR: 25 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer behind and to the side; both facing the view.
AI guidance: “Sit side by side and look at the same thing.”

Father & son

Selfie squeeze

Hold the phone at arm’s length, heads together; front camera at eye level.

Camera angle: High angle
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: Front camera (~25 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 25 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Dad holds the phone at arm’s length, slightly above.
AI guidance: “Put your heads together and look at the lens.”

Parent & child

Beach walk from behind

Let them walk away hand in hand along the water; backs to the camera keeps it timeless.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Beach and Mountains (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 80, EV -0.4
DSLR: 24 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer behind them on the sand; they walk away along the water.
AI guidance: “Hold hands and walk along the water away from me.”

Parent & child

Cheek to cheek, eyes to camera

Faces together, child slightly in front; natural smiles come from a whispered joke.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away with the tele lens.
AI guidance: “Put your cheeks together, child slightly in front.”

Parent & child

On the hip

Parent holds the child on the hip, both looking at the camera or at each other.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2 m away in open shade.
AI guidance: “Hold her on your hip and look at each other.”

Parent & child

Sitting together, leaning in

Sit side by side and lean heads together; use the self-timer so the parent is in the photo too.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Phone on a shelf 2 m away on the timer; both seated.
AI guidance: “Sit side by side and lean your heads together.”

Parent & child

Adventure together

Hike, cycle or explore: shoot from behind as they walk the trail.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Landscape (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 100, EV -0.3
DSLR: 13 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer a few metres behind on the trail.
AI guidance: “Walk the path ahead of me and do not look back.”

Parent & child

Everyday breakfast

Ordinary moments last longest: meals, reading, brushing hair. Shoot by a window.

Camera angle: High angle
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Food (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 200, EV +0.3
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer standing at the table end, window to the side.
AI guidance: “Carry on eating breakfast together.”

Family

Walking towards you, hands held

Ask the family to walk slowly towards you, swinging the child’s arms; shoot a burst.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 5 m ahead walking backwards slowly; family walks towards.
AI guidance: “Hold hands and swing the child as you walk to me.”

Family

Sitting close on a sofa

Heights staggered, everyone leaning in; hands on shoulders link the group.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2.5 m in front of the sofa at seated eye level.
AI guidance: “Lean in, put hands on shoulders, tallest at the back.”

Family

Boardwalk stroll

A path leads the eye to the family; keep them on a third line.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Landscape (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 100, EV -0.3
DSLR: 13 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer at the start of the boardwalk; family a third of the way along.
AI guidance: “Walk slowly along the boardwalk together.”

Family

Autumn trail

Shoot from behind as they walk among trees; colours carry the mood.

Camera angle: Low angle
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer kneeling on the trail behind them.
AI guidance: “Walk among the trees side by side.”

Friends & groups

Walking together

Ask the group to walk and chat towards you; shoot several frames.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 5 m ahead; group walks towards.
AI guidance: “Walk towards me and chat with each other.”

Friends & groups

Mixed levels

Some sit, some kneel, some stand so all faces are visible.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 4 m away, phone at standing chest height.
AI guidance: “Front row sit or kneel, back row stand close.”

Friends & groups

Group selfie

Hold the phone high and slightly angled down; bunch heads close.

Camera angle: High angle
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: Front camera (~25 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 25 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Tallest friend holds the phone high, angled down.
AI guidance: “Squeeze in and look up at the phone.”

Friends & groups

Silhouette at sunset

Line the group up against a bright sky; spaces between bodies make the shapes clear.

Camera angle: Low angle
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Sunset (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV -0.6
DSLR: 24 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 10 m away, low, with the sky behind them.
AI guidance: “Spread out in a line so there is sky between you.”

Friends & groups

Around the table

Shoot a shared meal from the end of the table; laughter beats posing.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Food (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 200, EV +0.3
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer at the end of the table, seated height.
AI guidance: “Keep talking and pass the food around.”

Friends & groups

Stacked heads

Faces close and staggered in a vertical frame; fun hand signs welcome.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away.
AI guidance: “Stack your faces one above another and be silly.”

Kids

Get down to their level

Crouch to the child’s eye height; play peekaboo for the smile.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer crouched at the child’s eye height, 1.5 m away.
AI guidance: “Get down to their level and play peekaboo.”

Kids

Real smiles

Ask a silly question instead of “say cheese”; shoot while they answer.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 2 m away at child height.
AI guidance: “Answer my silly question!”

Kids

Dressed for the day

Festivals and birthdays: let props (flower crown, balloons) frame the face.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away, dark background behind the child.
AI guidance: “Look at me and show your flower crown.”

Kids

Standing tall

Let the child stand proudly where they like; same spot every year shows growth.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer crouched 3 m away, same spot each year.
AI guidance: “Stand tall right where you like.”

Maternity

Seated on a bench

Sit tall, hand gently on the bump, face turned slightly to the light.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 3 m in front of the bench in shade.
AI guidance: “Sit tall and rest a hand on your bump.”

Maternity

Relaxed on the steps

Lean back on the hands, legs extended; a colourful door makes a backdrop.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 3 m from the steps at seated eye level.
AI guidance: “Lean back on your hands and stretch your legs.”

📷 Photo

Maternity

Side profile

Stand side-on to show the bump’s shape; a plain background keeps it clean.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer side-on, 2 m away, plain wall behind.
AI guidance: “Turn sideways so the bump shows.”

Maternity

Tiny clothes

Hold a baby outfit against the bump: a simple detail shot.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1 m away by a window.
AI guidance: “Hold the baby outfit against your bump.”

Elderly

Thoughtful pose

Hand to chin, gaze away: black and white suits lined faces.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away, light from one side.
AI guidance: “Rest your chin on your hand and look away.”

Elderly

Hands on hips, proud

Let them stand confidently in their own place.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 3–4 m away so the place is in frame.
AI guidance: “Stand proud with your hands on your hips.”

Elderly

Big laugh close-up

Chat with them; the laugh comes between frames.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away, chatting.
AI guidance: “Tell me a funny story.”

Elderly

Soft light smile

Open shade or cloud gives gentle light on skin texture.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2 m away in open shade.
AI guidance: “Give me a soft smile.”

Elderly

In colourful clothes

Traditional clothes and scarves add colour; place them on a third line.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 4 m away to fit the outfit.
AI guidance: “Stand on the left so your clothes fill the frame.”

Solo: man

Big smile on a busy street

Stand him still while the crowd moves behind; the busy background becomes texture.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2 m in front; subject still on the pavement edge, crowd behind.
AI guidance: “Stay still and smile while people pass.”

Solo: woman

Sitting on a doorstep

Sit on steps or a doorstep, knees angled, hands relaxed; colourful doors make the frame.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer crouched 2–3 m in front of the steps.
AI guidance: “Sit on the step and angle your knees to one side.”

Solo: woman

Walking down a lane

Let her walk towards the light along a lane; an umbrella or scarf adds colour.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer at the far end of the lane; subject walks towards the camera.
AI guidance: “Walk slowly towards me and look ahead.”

Solo: woman

Market portrait

A street-market backdrop with a direct, calm gaze; keep her off-centre.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2 m away; subject off-centre with stalls behind.
AI guidance: “Look straight into the lens and keep a calm face.”

Birthdays

Kids watching the cake

Shoot over the table at the children’s eye level as the cake arrives.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer crouched at the far side of the table.
AI guidance: “Kids, watch the cake come in.”

Birthdays

Birthday child with the cake

Seat the child behind the cake; candle light on the face, background lights off.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Night Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/50 s, ISO 800, EV +0.3
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer opposite, across the table.
AI guidance: “Sit behind your cake and look at the candles.”

Birthdays

Blowing out the candles

Pre-focus on the cake, then burst as the candles go out.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, close-up
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Night Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/50 s, ISO 800, EV +0.3
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away, focused on the cake.
AI guidance: “Make a wish and blow on three.”

Birthdays

Party hats, cheek to cheek

Two people leaning in with hats and a plate of cake: silly is good.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: Front camera (~25 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 25 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away, or a front-camera selfie.
AI guidance: “Put your hats on and squeeze cheek to cheek.”

Weddings

Foreheads close (Indian wedding)

Bride and groom face each other, heads nearly touching; shoot tight from the side.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2 m to the side with the tele lens.
AI guidance: “Face each other and let your foreheads almost touch.”

Weddings

Haldi laughter

Candid colour and laughter at the haldi; shoot bursts as the turmeric goes on.

Camera angle: High angle
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer standing over the seated couple, 2 m away.
AI guidance: “Keep laughing while the haldi goes on.”

Weddings

Garland exchange

Pre-position at the side and burst through the varmala moment.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer at the side of the stage.
AI guidance: “Exchange garlands slowly.”

Weddings

Side by side at the haldi

Couple seated side by side in yellow; shoot straight on with warm light behind.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Outdoor Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/500 s, ISO 100, EV -0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer straight in front, 2.5 m away.
AI guidance: “Sit side by side and look at me.”

Weddings

Down the aisle (church wedding)

Shoot from the end of the aisle with the long train leading back.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 13 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer at the end of the aisle, centred.
AI guidance: “Walk slowly and let the train flow behind.”

Weddings

Leaving the church

Wait at the door as the couple walks out among guests; keep shooting.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer outside the church door facing in.
AI guidance: “Walk out together and enjoy the confetti.”

Festivals

Diwali family around the thali

Everyone gathered close around the diyas and sweets; light from the lamps.

Camera angle: High angle
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer standing over the group around the thali.
AI guidance: “Gather close around the diyas.”

Festivals

Christmas morning by the tree

Kids on the floor by the tree; shoot from their level with tree lights behind.

Camera angle: Low angle
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer sitting on the floor near the tree.
AI guidance: “Sit by the tree and open your presents.”

Festivals

Christmas family portrait

Family arranged around the tree, some seated, some standing.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 4 m back, centred on the tree.
AI guidance: “Some sit, some stand; tallest at the back.”

Festivals

Festival-night group selfie

Huddle close with city lights or fireworks behind; hold very still.

Camera angle: High angle
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: Front camera (~25 mm equiv.) · Night Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/50 s, ISO 800, EV +0.3
DSLR: 25 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: One friend holds the phone up; lights behind the group.
AI guidance: “Huddle close and hold still.”

Festivals

Lunar New Year lion dance

Catch kids’ reactions as the lion dancer comes close.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer beside the crowd as the lion approaches.
AI guidance: “Watch the lion come close.”

Anniversaries

Cutting the anniversary cake

Stand close behind the cake, arms around each other; keep the cake in the bottom of the frame.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 2.5 m in front of the table; couple behind the cake.
AI guidance: “Stand close behind the cake and put your arms around each other.”

Anniversaries

Cheek to cheek, big smiles

Lean heads together and look into the lens; simple and warm.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, close-up
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Classic Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 1.5 m away with the tele lens.
AI guidance: “Lean your heads together and smile at the lens.”

Anniversaries

Sunset view from behind

Sit close, one arm around the other, facing a view at golden hour.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Sunset (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/250 s, ISO 100, EV -0.6
DSLR: 24 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 4 m behind the couple; view and sun ahead of them.
AI guidance: “Sit close and put an arm around each other.”

Anniversaries

Anniversary dinner toast

Shoot across the table as the couple leans in, drinks raised.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Night Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/50 s, ISO 800, EV +0.3
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer seated across the table.
AI guidance: “Lean in and raise your glasses.”

Anniversaries

The whole family around the couple

Put the couple in the centre and build the generations around them.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 13 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 6 m back; couple in the centre of the group.
AI guidance: “Couple in the middle, children in front, tallest at the back.”

Reunions

Reunion picnic, wide

Show the whole gathering from a little above with tables and trees.

Camera angle: High angle
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Landscape (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 100, EV -0.3
DSLR: 13 mm, f/8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer on a slope or bench 15 m from the tables.
AI guidance: “Carry on eating and chatting.”

Reunions

Homecoming lift

The moment a parent lifts the child high on arrival; shoot a burst.

Camera angle: Low angle
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer crouched 3 m away.
AI guidance: “Lift her up high!”

Reunions

The first hug

Stand back and catch the hug; signs and banners tell the story.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 2x (~48–50 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 48 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer 3–4 m away with the tele lens.
AI guidance: “Go and hug them; ignore me.”

Reunions

Old friends, arms linked

Friends side by side, arms around each other, everyone looking in.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer 2.5 m in front.
AI guidance: “Link arms and lean in.”

Reunions

Line-up in traditional dress

A row of guests side by side shows outfits; angle the line for depth.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Group Portrait (Easy) · Pro: shutter 1/200 s, ISO 125, EV +0
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Aperture priority
Positioning: Photographer at one end of the line, angled.
AI guidance: “Stand in a row and turn slightly towards me.”

Celebrations & parties

Couple on the dance floor

Catch partners mid-turn under the party lights.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Night Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/50 s, ISO 800, EV +0.3
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer at the edge of the dance floor, 2 m away.
AI guidance: “Keep dancing and turn towards the lights.”

Celebrations & parties

Group dancing under lights

Shoot from the edge of the floor with coloured lights behind.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Night Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/50 s, ISO 800, EV +0.3
DSLR: 13 mm, f/8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer at the edge of the floor, lights behind the dancers.
AI guidance: “Dance together and keep moving.”

Celebrations & parties

Hands up, the celebration dance

Get in among the dancers at chest height as they celebrate.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, half-body
Camera settings: 0.6x ultra-wide (~13–16 mm equiv.) · Candid / Moving Person (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/800 s, ISO 400, EV +0
DSLR: 13 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer among the dancers at chest height.
AI guidance: “Hands up and celebrate!”

Celebrations & parties

Party games in the living room

Shoot the players from behind the sofa with the screen in view.

Camera angle: Eye level
Composition: Landscape, full-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Indoor Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/125 s, ISO 400, EV +0.2
DSLR: 24 mm, f/5.6, Manual
Positioning: Photographer behind the sofa, screen in view.
AI guidance: “Play the game; ignore me.”

Celebrations & parties

Lost in the music

Single dancer, light behind; let some blur show the movement.

Camera angle: Low angle
Composition: Portrait, half-body
Camera settings: 1x main (~24 mm equiv.) · Night Portrait (Pro) · Pro: shutter 1/50 s, ISO 800, EV +0.3
DSLR: 24 mm, f/2.8, Manual
Positioning: Photographer crouched 2 m away, light behind the dancer.
AI guidance: “Close your eyes and dance.”

Framing ideas for all 30 presets →