It all depends which way the tree is leaning (growing). My stand is always placed so that while I,m sitting my back is in a reclined and comfortable possition. It doesn't matter where the deer will approach from as I can't dictate which way the tree leans. While standing I face the trails, some are in front of the stand and some I have the tree between us. I have a green canvas tarp I drape in front of the stand to conceal movement , and I haul up branches to conceal the sides. It doesn't matter which way you face, just don't move or blink when the quarry is looking at you. Also if you steady your gun against the tree, place your backhand against the tree between it and the gun. Also if using an auto-loader make sure the shell has room to eject. Learned that one the hard way.[&o]