5 Easy Up-The-Pole Poses That Look Amazing in Photos (Beginner-Friendly!)
Planning a pole photoshoot and stuck for inspo? Whether it's your first time in front of the camera or you're just looking for some beginner-friendly pose ideas, I’ve got you covered. These are five of my favourite classic, beginner-friendly pole shapes that are simple to get into, easy to tweak, and look so good on camera.
No advanced tricks required—these poses are all about clean lines, strong shapes, and telling a story with your body.
1. Carousel Kick
Best for: Looking strong on static pole
This little number is perfect if you want to create a strong, powerful vibe in your shots. Press your shin into the pole and lift your body up and away. Kick your free leg behind you in an arc, and open through your chest like you're lifting your heart to the sky (or, if you prefer, nipples to ceiling).
Photo tip: Try changing your gaze—looking up feels dreamy, while looking back adds drama.
2. Single Climb Squat
Best for: Strong lines, plenty of variations, trying with a skirt
From a single climb (or two if you're feeling strong), sink your hips back into a squat position. Push your booty out slightly and arch through your upper back for lovely angles and lines. This pose gives a strong, elegant feel while still showing off your shape.
Want to level it up a little? Take the hand closest to the camera off the pole and let it float naturally by your side or overhead.
Photo tip: Try to point both feet when holding this position for an extra polished look.
3. Pole Sit
Best for: Classic lines, solid hold, go-to shot
A must-have shot for any pole dancer. From a climb or a (controlled) jump-up, settle into a pole sit with your legs crossed over the pole. Keep your feet pointed (no flexing against the pole!), press your tummy toward the pole, and let your shoulders drop slightly back for a soft, elegant shape.
You can change this one up with hand placement, different head angles, or even playing with a skirt or prop.
Photo tip: Tilt your head back as far as you can safely and relax your fingers—it makes a world of difference.
4. Layback
Best for: Iconic pose, legs for dayyyyys, lines on point
This is one of those instantly recognizable shapes that always looks incredible in photos. Starting from a strong pole sit, gently lean your upper body away from the pole, keeping your legs secure and squeezing through your inner thighs. Let your spare arm extend out behind you, and allow your head to follow naturally—just enough to open your chest and shoulders.
Photo tip: You may need to start 1/4 turn back from where you’d like to end up - this move tends to rotate you a little, especially on static.
5. Pole Stand / Standing Sad Girl
Best for: Emotive shots, drama, beautiful silhouettes
Climb up the pole and stand upright by pressing your legs into the pole for support. From there, bring your chest forward and lean your upper body in front of the pole. You can stay upright and strong, or fold yourself over for a soft, dramatic shape that brings allll the feels.
This pose has a quiet intensity to it—perfect for when you want a moody, intense vibe to your photo.
Photo tip: Try holding on to your legs in a dramatic embrace to bring even more drama to your shot.
Final Thoughts: Simple Shapes, Stunning Results
You don’t need to bust out your hardest tricks to get stunning pole photos. These beginner-friendly poses focus on connection, confidence, and clean lines—and they leave lots of room for your personality to shine through.
Whether you're posing solo, working with a photographer, or just having fun with a friend and a phone camera, these moves are a great base to start from.
Happy posing, and remember—your way is the right way 💖