When it comes to senior sessions, the tiniest posing adjustments can completely alter the look of an image, according to Erin Johnson and Emily Drew (at top) of E-Squared Photography in Wisconsin. Here are some tips they’ve shared.

Soften the hands. The hands reveal tension more than anything else, the duo says. Stiff or curled fingers make a pose look forced. So, before you make a photo, ask the subject to shake out her hands and then place them lightly on a jacket collar or on her hair. Sometimes they ask the subject to pretend she has a ring on and gently play with it.

Give the boys something to do. Senior boys often freeze up, Drew and Johnson have found, so they tell male subjects to crack their knuckles, rub their hands together, swipe their palms down their jeans, or adjust their watch. Photograph the movement and the moment right after the movement, they advise.

Try the jog-away-and-look-back move. Have them take a few light steps away from you, then glance back over their shoulder like someone just called their name. This brings out genuine expressions, soft body lines, and sometimes giggles.

Amanda Arnold is a senior editor.