Kisau Photography

What makes a great pose? Is it the stillness, the movement, or the emotion it evokes? Portraiture is about more than simply documenting a subject. It’s about capturing moments that blend energy and expression in surprising ways. Chapter 7: Strike A Pose from The Melbourne Portraits Project explores how poses can go beyond the ordinary, merging motion and personality to create unforgettable images. From bold gestures to quiet introspection, these portraits show how even subtle shifts can spark something magical.

As a photographer, I’ve learned that body language, even in its smallest forms, can shape the emotional tone of an image. A stretch toward the light or a delicate interaction with the environment can whisper an unspoken story. This chapter emphasizes the importance of encouraging subjects to express themselves naturally. By embracing movement and spontaneity, these portraits come to life. Whether framed by vibrant streetscapes or minimalist backdrops, each image celebrates individuality and the interplay between subject and setting.

These portraits encourage you to embrace the energy of the moment rather than adhering to rigid composition rules. Watching how people move, connect, and express themselves can lead to images that are rich with emotion and storytelling. This chapter invites you to uncover the hidden narratives born from intentionally crafted poses, where the structure of a pose allows room for spontaneity and self-discovery, creating a dynamic interplay of emotion and movement.

About The Melbourne Portraits Project

The Melbourne Portraits Project: A Photographic Ode invites you to see Melbourne in a new light. Through a series of photoshoots scattered across the city’s streets, alleys, and hidden spots, Paul Tocatlian captures the creative pulse of Melbourne and the people who make it thrive. This book celebrates a community that inspires creativity and encourages everyone to dream bigger. Accompanying this photo book is a companion website that offers additional insights, including articles like this one, further exploring Melbourne’s inspiring spirit and the collaborative energy behind each portrait.

Photos That Didn’t Make The Cut

We know you’re wondering about the photos that didn’t make it into the book! We’ll be adding a curated mix here over time, so keep checking back for more hidden gems. Stay tuned!

Pia Gould Sets the Stage for This Chapter

“A pose is such a wonderful expression of emotion in how someone feels. It’s like a painting that has artistic meaning yet not everyone can explain. It is a mysterious stance that someone might interpret differently but is seen as beautiful and extraordinary. It can translate into anything from confidence, joy, sadness, and misery. It’s like seeing through someone’s soul and having a piece of their identity.”
Pia Gould

Pia Gould’s reflection perfectly captures the theme of this chapter: the transformative and emotional power of a pose. During my time in Melbourne, Pia became one of my closest collaborators, and our creative partnership remains one of the most rewarding experiences of my photographic journey. Our first photoshoot together took us through Melbourne’s streets, exploring various locations while Pia modeled as a hair and makeup artist, a role she embodies both professionally and creatively. Carrying a director’s chair and a large makeup kit across the city was no small feat, but the effort paid off when the images became my first published work thanks to Pia’s submissions.

Our collaborations over time have resulted in unforgettable projects. Pia’s creative brilliance stood out during the studio shoot featured in Chapter 11: Le Petit Palais. On that day, she not only styled and handled makeup for multiple models but also improvised an outfit for one model using two veils. Her ingenuity elevated the entire shoot. Pia even modeled herself, both solo and in an impromptu session with Clarence the Clown. She later submitted these images for publication, securing widespread recognition.

Today, Pia thrives as a model and actor represented by Silverfox Management. She is also a founding member of Kisau Photography and plays a key role as our magazine consultant, helping our work appear in over 150 publications. When I returned to Melbourne in December 2024, reconnecting with Pia was a highlight of the trip. Alongside Hannah, we revisited some of our favorite creative spots and even managed another photoshoot.

Pia’s artistry and vision are central to this chapter’s theme. Striking a pose is about more than simply holding a position. It’s about channeling emotion, identity, and narrative into a single, compelling moment.

The Art of Striking a Pose

What defines a pose? It can be static or dynamic. A pose is an intentional stance or movement that conveys emotion, tells a story, or highlights the connection between subject and environment. Posing is both an art form and a collaborative process, requiring communication and creativity between the photographer and the subject.

Building the Pose

Creating a pose begins with the foundation. I always start with the subject’s feet, as their placement sets the tone for the entire posture. From there, adjustments to the legs, torso, shoulders, hands, and facial expressions help refine the intended mood or narrative. One technique I often use is asking the subject to step out of the pose and then ease back into it. This method fosters a more natural appearance.

Encouraging Self-Expression

A strong pose allows room for individuality and self-expression. It should reflect the subject’s unique energy and personality. As a photographer, my role varies. Sometimes providing detailed guidance, other times stepping back to let the subject explore freely. Regardless of the approach, the goal is to refine the pose with small adjustments and capture it from the most flattering angle.

Inspiration from the Images

The portraits in this chapter highlight a diverse range of poses, each with its own story. Some subjects embrace bold, dynamic movements, while others exude quiet confidence through stillness. Brightly colored murals bring playful interactions to life, while minimalist backdrops enhance the elegance of poised compositions. These contrasts show how a pose can transcend a physical stance to become a statement.

Striking a pose is not just about achieving visual appeal. It is a way to tell a story where emotion and artistry intersect. By offering thoughtful direction, encouraging spontaneity, and fostering authenticity, a pose becomes a bridge to creating portraits that leave a lasting impression.

Join the Conversation!

I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below to connect with us and others exploring The Melbourne Portraits Project. Got a question about the stories behind the photos? Curious about the creative process? Or maybe you’ve got a story of your own to share? Whatever’s on your mind, let’s chat! Your thoughts and stories make this journey even richer. Jump in, join the conversation, and let’s keep the inspiration rolling!

© Paul Tocatlian. All Rights Reserved.

The Melbourne Portraits Project