It seems that in dance everything is broken down into categories. For instance, in ballet, we can have ballet, demi-pointe and pointe. From there we can even go to a contemporary pointe ( think modern, broken poses instead of the traditional.

What’s important here is that ALL dance forms and genres go back to the basic technique of ballet. So. When you see a ballet pose come up, remind yourself that these are the ones you really need to pay attention to.

We are starting today with ballet. That means soft slippers on the feet. Usually with an elastic over the top of the foot, and maybe an elastic tie near the toe. To begin with, make sure that none of the ties are showing on the shoe. The ties and the ends of the ties should ALWAYS be tucked into the slipper and never, ever be visible in the image.

Ballet Posing Tendu

A very simple pose with arms in low second position and the the foot en tendu (see the terminology post) to the front. Both legs are turned out and the arms are soft with good finger position. However. it’s kind of a boring pose. So, lets kick it up a notch by turning it into a curtsie.

Ballet Posing curtsie 01

Start with the tendu to the back. Now bend both legs (plie.) Note they are STILL both turned out. The hands gently pick up the corners of the skirt. Big smile for Grandma. Cute. This will sell all day long. BUT … it can be changed slightly to create another pose that will have mom buying two pictures instead of one.

Ballet Posing Curtsie 02

Same pose, but the back leg is straightened and stretched. (Tendu to the rear or also called tendu derierre.) Head tilt slightly to the her left. Slight smile. Two super cute poses, and mom will likely want them both.

Key points here: Feet and legs turned out. Note the back foot rests on the top of the foot, not the ball of the foot. Soft arms that are gently curled. Focused on the camera with good expression.