Here you see a caster enjoying the relaxed moment with the Parabolic curve developed to a point where the forward stroke is going to be simple and effective. I this case the caster has the Snowbee Tamar 12' 6" Spey rod loaded with a manufactured shooting line,known as a Beulah Elixir 7/8 Spey Line. The make-up of the line consists of a thin running line, a fairly agressive short bellied head  with a loop attached  Poly Tip...likely in the 450 grain area total weight. This novice caster will earn his merrits with a set-up like this very quickly...the learning curve will shorten incredibly,yet demand that he be competent with traditional and modern casts.

Notice how the left hand is slightly pushed out from the body with the hand grip very soft. The Right arm is slightlyholding onto the rod with a good grip position for him. The right hand has just left his eye level and drifted forward in a very smooth and even pressure. Also take good note of the position of the rod in relationship to 12 o:clock...in this case it is actually at about 1 o:clock...a very good  and safe position for forming loops and engaging forward strokes!

Now you see a good body position when playing a large fish in aggressive water,palming the reel with "off" hand supporting the rod high on the cork. This rod happens to be the MacKenzie 12' #8 DTX rod.