Why Hands on Hips Make You Look Wider in Photos

You know the one. Hands on hips, elbows out, sharp little angles pointing to either side. The classic “triangle arms” pose.

It feels powerful, right? Strong. Like a don’t-mess-with-me kind of stance. But here’s the truth: the camera doesn’t read it that way. Our eyes take in the entire shape, not just the body inside it. So when your elbows shoot out, the frame expands. Suddenly, you look wider than you are.

And it’s not just width. Those angles give off a harsher, more aggressive vibe than most of us actually want in a photo.

How to Slim the Shape

Luckily, it’s easy to fix.

• Push your elbows back, not out. This pulls the lines of your body in, so your frame looks slimmer straight away.

• Keep a little space between your arms and your torso. Even a tiny gap defines your waist without adding bulk.

Bonus Tweaks That Always Work

Not sure what to do with your hands? Here are two foolproof options:

• Hands in pockets, thumbs out. Relaxed, casual, modern. Your elbows naturally angle behind you and your whole shape softens.

• Hands staggered on the outside of your thighs. This one slims your thighs and lengthens your frame. The arms sit back, the lines go long, and the shape feels balanced.

The Big Takeaway

Triangle arms might feel safe, but on camera they add bulk and edge. Pull your elbows gently back, place your hands with purpose, and let the camera see you, not the big triangles you’re making.

Next time you’re in front of the lens, take one shot with triangle arms and one with your elbows back. You’ll see it straight away. Softer, slimmer, more polished.

This is just one of the details I cover in the Everyday Posing Kit. It’s not another “copy this pose” guide - it’s my complete 64-page method that shows you how to shape, flatter, and understand your angles so you always look good in photos, without memorising stiff poses.

👉 Ready to stop feeling awkward in photos? GET YOUR FULL POSING KIT HERE