68 Best Instagram Poses in 2023 (Pose Like an Influencer)
Want to learn to pose like an influencer? These 68 Instagram poses will get you cute pics every time, with fun & flattering poses for females, males & couples.
By Ana Mireles
Looking to become a master at Instagram poses? Then you’ve come to the right place!
Yes, posing for Instagram can feel awkward – intimidating even. Especially if you’re trying to nail a flattering pose in seconds flat while out in public.
That’s why it can help to have a bunch of Instagram influencer poses up your sleeve. Whether you’re male or female, or even a couple, this guide includes posing ideas to take along to your next Instagram photoshoot.
These poses for Instagram are also perfect for photographers who want to offer guidance to their subjects on how to pose.
We’ll also cover some influencer tips on how to look good in photos regardless of the type of pose.
Ready to set your Instagram feed on fire? 🔥 Let’s jump into our posing guide.
Cute, Sexy and Fun Instagram Poses for Girls
To find your favorite poses, you should focus on body positivity. After all, there is nothing sexier than a confident woman!
Whichever pose you choose, make sure you feel empowered and comfortable with yourself.
- Get noticed: Top Instagram Hashtags for Photography in 2023
Smile
Regardless of the pose, the best Instagram photos feature a natural smile. You can even have a burst of laughter.
Try to relax – you can close your eyes for a moment if this helps.
You can also think about happy memories or ask the photographer to make a goofy face to make you laugh.
Dance
Forget about Instagram poses for a moment and dance to your favorite music.
You’ll look more attractive and fun to be with if you just be yourself.
Peek from behind an object
If you want an Instagram pose that makes you look playful and mysterious at the same time, try peeking out from behind a doorframe, curtain, or other object.
Frame your face
Another cool Instagram pose is to extend your arms in front. Then, form a frame with your fingers to direct the attention to your face.
Lying on the couch
A laid-back Instagram pose that’s very fun and flattering is to chill on your couch.
Experiment with the camera angle to make it visually attractive.
Twirl
Twirling is just as fun as dancing. Simply find a beautiful setting like a flower field and start twirling.
Use a long flowy skirt to make the picture more dynamic.
Show off your athletic skills
A confident woman is always a hit. So, if you have any athletic skills or enjoy a specific sport, show it in your pictures.
Kneel with one leg
Crouching or kneeling with one leg is another popular Instagram pose that you can do.
It’s usually done in urban settings. Simply put the camera on the ground, tilted up, and snap away.
Lying belly down on the grass
Lie belly down on the grass. Then, bend your elbows and rest your chin on your hands.
This pose creates a triangle that’s pleasing to the eye. It also directs attention to your face.
Cool Male Instagram Poses
If you want to level up your Instagram photos, you need to learn how to pose in front of the camera.
This isn’t something that comes naturally for most people. So, here are some Instagram poses to inspire all the guys the next time you take photos.
Do the peace sign
A fun pose for your Instagram photos is to flash a peace sign.
You can extend your arm closer to the camera so you’re blurred in the background.
Another possibility is to hold your hand close to you and make a silly face – like sticking out your tongue.
Lean the head forward
For Instagram poses, it’s always more flattering to lean your head forward.
This will elongate your neck, avoid a double chin, and make your eyes the focal point.
Stand sideways and put your hands in your jacket pockets
Having your hands in your pockets makes your image more dynamic. This is because of the triangles created by the bent elbows.
Stand sideways with your hands in your jacket pockets for a great Instagram pose.
Sit leaning forward
Sitting Instagram poses always benefit from leaning forward.
You can put one foot forward and rest your elbow on that knee.
Lean on a wall and bend your leg
While standing, bend your leg and put one foot on the wall behind you.
Then lean into the wall for a more relaxed pose.
Hand on the back of the neck
Extend your arm up and bend it so you can touch the back of your neck with your hand. This is a very popular pose in Instagram photos.
Crouching down
One of the most dynamic and engaging Instagram poses is to crouch and have the camera low on the ground.
You can try this pose with a foot forward to create different planes.
Relaxed Instagram Poses at Home
You don’t need to go to an exotic destination for your Instagram photos.
There are plenty of opportunities to snap pictures at home. You just need to create a professional look using one of these Instagram poses.
Enjoying coffee on the couch
Snuggle up on the couch with a coffee cup and your usual smile. Try to sit close to the window for perfect lighting.
Taking a bath
There are many Instagram poses that you can do in the bathtub.
Simply lie back and relax, or try extending one leg with the toes pointed and the other leg bent. It depends on the vibe you want to give.
Selfie lying in bed
This Instagram pose is always a hit.
Lie on your bed sideways. Then, extend your arm towards the camera as if taking a selfie.
The arm will direct the viewer toward your face.
Chilling on the floor
Instagram poses that give a peek into your real life are always popular.
For example, sitting on the floor surrounded by your things as you would typically do.
Cuddling with your furry friend
It’s no secret that Instagram loves pets! If you have one, make sure you pose together for a few pictures.
Top-down on the floor
A change of perspective is always good.
Try some Instagram photos from the top while you lie on the floor.
Relaxing on the couch
Just by sitting on the couch, you can come up with a bunch of great Instagram poses.
Try having one leg stretched and one leg bent, sitting with your legs crossed, lying down on the couch, etc.
Looking out the window
Look out the window for a more reflective and meditative vibe.
This pose also helps you to get wonderful natural light on your face.
Reading in front of the fireplace
A fireplace is a very evocative setting. Try sitting on the floor or the sofa in front of it and reading a book.
You can take the photo from over the shoulder to have an interesting perspective.
Waking up
Style your hair and clothes into a roll-out-of-bed look. Then, pose as if you were just waking up.
This is a fun way to invite people to follow you in your everyday life.
Instagram Standing Poses
To pose the entire body can be difficult. That’s why a set of standing Instagram poses can help you start on the right foot.
In any case, from all the posing tips, the most important one is to stand straight. Posture is vital in a photo pose.
Back to the camera with open arms
One of the most popular Instagram poses in a landscape shot is to stand facing away from the camera.
Open your arms wide. It’s as if you were embracing nature.
Recline on a wall and bend the knee
For this Instagram pose, you need to rest your upper body on the wall. Then, bend one knee and keep the other leg straight.
Leaning on the wall sideways
Lean sideways and rest your arm and shoulder on the wall. This pose is just as effective as reclining with your back against the wall.
Hands in your pockets
For a standing Instagram pose, putting your hands in your pockets is always flattering.
This way, you’ll have the elbows bent and create a space between the body and the arms.
Hands on your hips
If you don’t have pockets or prefer to show your hands, simply put your hands on your hips. It will create a similar effect.
One hand on your head
Another successful Instagram pose is to raise your hand. You can hold a hat, play with your hair, or simply put your hand behind your head or neck.
This will break the symmetry and make the pose more dynamic.
Sideways looking at the camera
A very cute pose is to turn away from the camera or stand sideways. Then, turn your head over the shoulder and look back.
Fixing your clothes
Many Instagram poses are a variation of this simple action – fixing your clothing.
You can pull up your coat’s collar, adjust your shirt’s cufflinks, button your jacket, etc.
Experiment with these elements to find the one that you like.
Arms crossed
Standing with your arms crossed is one of the most classic portrait poses.
Stand facing the camera for an empowered look, or turn 45 degrees to look more approachable.
One arm across the torso
If crossing both arms is too strong, try crossing one arm across your torso and holding the opposite arm.
Holding a jacket over the shoulder
A great standing pose is to hold your jacket over your shoulder. Using a backpack is also possible for a more casual look.
Laid Back Beach Instagram Poses
The beach is a wonderful setting for your Instagram photos.
All you need is some cute Instagram poses for some scroll-stopping pics. Here are some ideas for you to try.
Reading with a fresh drink
Do you want a carefree vibe in your pictures? Relax on a hammock or a beach chair with a drink and a good book.
This is an easy photoshoot setup for your Instagram photos.
Feeding the seagulls
For some original Instagram photos at the beach, grab some bread and feed the seagulls.
Make sure you take a lot of pics so that you can choose the best one.
Kneeling
Kneeling in front of the ocean is a great power pose.
Back to the camera and crossed legs
Another great pose at the beach is to sit cross-legged, giving your back to the camera.
This Instagram pose communicates peace as it shows you contemplating the beautiful scenery.
Walking down the beach
You can make some wonderful Instagram photos simply by walking up and down the beach.
Instead of posing, you’re being active. This makes the pictures more natural and dynamic.
Relaxing on your inflatable
Do you know what makes summer photos cool and inviting? Some colorful inflatables!
Grab your favorite one and drift off. You might want to try drone photography for a more spectacular sight.
Meditating
Meditation helps you to get in sync with the environment and enjoy the moment.
A perfect place to do this is the beach. This is why sitting cross-legged in meditation is one of the most popular Instagram poses.
Freeze a jump
If you feel that Instagram poses make you look stiff, why not try a jump?
The beach makes a beautiful setting for you to try this photo idea.
Look over a handrail
Whether it’s the lifeguard tower or a dock, there’s usually a structure with a handrail at the beach.
Just lean on it and look over for a simple pose that makes eye-catching Instagram photos.
Lying on your side
One of the most popular Instagram poses is sitting sideways. You can hold yourself up with your arm.
It’s a flattering pose, and it gives a laid-back vibe.
Belly down
Lie down on your belly and rest on your elbows. You can bend your legs for a more playful look.
Contemplate the sunset
It may sound simple, but standing in front of the sunset and contemplating it can make a powerful image.
Fun and Natural Instagram Poses with Friends
Instagram photos are more fun when you do them with friends.
Not everyone in your group of friends will be a natural when taking portrait photos, though. So, here are some go-to poses for you to use the next time you get together.
Jumping for a silhouette pic
Posing can result in stiff photos. To add more movement, you can all jump for the photo.
This looks great when you have a beautiful sunset in the back, and you’re captured as silhouettes.
On the floor, lying in different directions
This is the cutest pose for two best friends. You can lie beside each other, except that your bodies are in opposite directions.
You can use this photo pose for a group of friends too. Simply lie down, forming a circle where the top of your heads touch in the center.
Chilling around a picnic
A super cute pose for sitting photos is to arrange a picnic scene. Then, organize yourselves around the picnic blanket.
Toasting
An easy pose for a group of friends is to have everyone clink their glasses for a toast.
The group hug
Of all the Instagram poses, this is the most natural for a group of friends.
Get together for a group hug that shows your affection. Just make sure everyone’s faces are visible!
The road trip
Road trip vibes are always trendy on Instagram photos.
A great pose to achieve this is to have you and your friends sticking out of the car window.
If the group is too big, some can be inside the car, and some stand outside.
Hand signs
Hand signs make super cute poses for Instagram. You can do a heart or an entire word – it’s up to you!
Holding fun props
Props are a great way to loosen up anyone that feels awkward with photoshoot poses.
Holding a prop gives you something to do, so you don’t have to focus on what to do with your hands and body.
Plus, you can use props to show the group’s relationship and personality.
Peek at the camera
The peek-at-the-camera pose is simple and fun.
Just put the camera on the ground or a table. Then, all of you lean forward as if you were looking at the viewer through the lens.
Sitting next to each other, facing away from the camera
Turning your backs to the camera is a great sitting pose for scenic photos.
This way, you’re looking at the same background as the person who is looking at your picture.
Form a line and hold the shoulders of the person in front
A cute Instagram pose for a group of friends is to get in line while holding the shoulders of the person in front of you.
This pose will add movement and give the group a sense of unity and support.
Original Instagram Selfie Poses
Trending Instagram poses are great. However, if you really want to stand out, you need to be original.
Here are some ideas for you to create some unique Instagram photos.
Do a common thing in an unusual place
Unique and scroll-stoping Instagram poses don’t need to be complicated. Think of everyday activities and take them out of context.
For example, bring a book and start reading in the middle of the sea.
Cross your legs and “levitate”
This super cute pose is easy to do with some simple retouching in Photoshop.
First, photograph the empty background. Then, sit cross-legged on a stool or something high.
Layer both images in Photoshop and remove the stool to achieve the levitation effect.
Stage a videogame-like battle
A great photo pose for your Instagram feed is a video game fight.
Depending on your scene’s complexity, you might need editing skills for this Instagram pose.
Tie yourself to a friend
If you like taking outfit photos, this is so much fun to do with a friend.
You’ll need a cool outfit with belts – such as raincoats.
Then, tie yourself to your friend and, while looking at each other, lean back.
Just make sure the belts will hold. Otherwise, put one foot back to hold your weight.
Picture-in-picture
This is one of the most original Instagram poses.
First, take a close-up using your phone. Then, hold the phone where you took the photo to make a picture-in-picture effect.
Choose a painting and recreate it
You can find inspiration for your Instagram poses in paintings.
Find a classic pose in a museum or art book and recreate it in your Instagram photos.
Do a yoga pose
Some of the most original Instagram poses are yoga asanas.
They don’t have to be the most complicated poses; the one you use depends on your skill level.
An eye-catching beginner’s asana is the flamingo pose. However, feel free to do something more advanced if you can.
The great thing about using yoga postures as Instagram poses is that you can communicate something about your lifestyle and personality.
Pose with your reflection
You can use a mirror to make your Instagram photos more creative.
This is also a great way to check your pose for the perfect shot.
You can use a handheld mirror or a full-body one. The idea is that your reflection will be the main subject of your Instagram photos.
How Do I Look Cool on Instagram?
Regardless of the pose, here are a few tips you can use to look better in your Instagram pics.
- Pull back your shoulders and away from the ears for a better posture.
- Turn 45 degrees away from the camera.
- Find your most flattering side – for most people it’s the left one.
- Push your face forward to avoid a double chin.
- Separate your arms from your body – even a small gap makes a big difference.
Read more: How To Pose For Pictures Like A Model (10 Pro Tips)
Instagram Poses FAQs
How do Instagram influencers pose?
Instagram influencers have a lot of practice. They study their body in front of a mirror or make a video to find their best side. They also take multiple photos each time to choose the most flattering one to post.
How do boys pose on Instagram?
Typically, boys put their hands in their pockets when they are standing. If they are sitting, they can put one leg up and rest an elbow on the knee. Otherwise, they can crouch or walk for a more dynamic look.
How do you pose for a selfie?
Whether you’re smiling or not, relax the muscles of your face for a more natural look. Then, find your best side – this is usually the left one. Try different camera angles to see which one you like most. Some people like the classic selfie angle (a little above the eye level) – others prefer from the bottom. Remember to experiment and practice to find the perfect pose for you.
Final Words
There are tons of Instagram poses that will help you look like a professional model.
The best way to find the right poses for you is to experiment. Then, practice them until you look natural.
I hope you found these Instagram poses and posing tips helpful! Let us know which are your favorite poses from the list and which ones we missed.
If you have any other questions or comments, don’t hesitate to write them in the comments section. We love reading your thoughts.
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