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Reference library/Sitting/The Directive Leader
The Directive Leader instructional pose referenceOriginal instructional study · 38782

Adult professional · Sitting · Mid-shot

The Directive Leader

CommandingFocusedCommercialCorporatePortrait
Say this to the subject
“Sit tall at first, then let your shoulders soften. Lean forward, palm-down gesture, look at camera. Keep your eyes focused, intense.”

Photographer cue: Lean forward over the table. Extend one hand in a controlled, palm-down gesture as if directing a meeting. Keep the other hand flat on the table for stability. Maintain sharp focus on the camera.

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How did this work?
Make one change:Keep handsChange handsEasierNo propSeatedFull-lengthHeadshot cropLess direct gazeMore energy

Pose DNA

The usable structure behind the pose.

Position
Sitting
Body angle
Frontal/Angled
Hands
One palm-down gesture, other flat on table
Head / gaze
Slightly forward · Focused, intense
Expression
Sharp, focused
Difficulty
Level 3 — Expressive
Model experience
Professional
Composition
Dynamic, mid-shot

Adaptive discovery

Keep the feeling. Move with intention.

These are chosen from the Pose DNA, not just a category match.

Pose family

Keep the idea.
Adapt the execution.

Use these practical alternatives when the subject, garment, crop, or location calls for a change.

Branch from this idea

Keep the same, but…