Whether or not you are innately photogenic, the principles for looking good in photos are fairly straightforward. If you dread having your picture taken, or you're just a perfectionist who wants to look flawless every time, then read on.
First of all, if you know there's a good chance you're going to be photographed, make sure you make an effort to dress well. Striped clothing and clashing colours should normally be avoided - wear clothes you feel comfortable in, keeping it simple and classic. Creases and stains definitely won't do you any favours, so make sure your clothes are cleaned and ironed beforehand. Also be aware that thin fabrics may become more revealing under studio lighting, or in the glare of a camera flash.
When you're being photographed, take notice of your posture. Hunching or slouching can make you appear shorter and exaggerate your stomach. Normally, a tall, straight stance is best, but twisting your body and showing your better side can also work well. Keep your shoulders relaxed to ensure you look at ease.
Obviously, your face is the focus of any portrait. Unless you're deliberately trying to convey a specific emotion such as amusement or fear, an authentic smile is the best option. If you find that your smile often looks forced on photos, try recalling something that made you laugh, or think about a happy experience you had recently. And remember, it won't look genuine if you don't smile with your eyes as well - relax your eyes and eyebrows, and be prepared to let the viewer in.
The backdrop for your photo and the lighting conditions will also make a huge difference. Always be sure to have at look at the environment you are in and work out the best angle for the shot, and try to avoid standing with light directly hitting your face, or light coming from behind you, which would be overexposed. Having a mirror to hand is always helpful, but in some cases there won't be a mirror available. As long as you keep practising, you will soon become a lot happier about having your photo taken.
First of all, if you know there's a good chance you're going to be photographed, make sure you make an effort to dress well. Striped clothing and clashing colours should normally be avoided - wear clothes you feel comfortable in, keeping it simple and classic. Creases and stains definitely won't do you any favours, so make sure your clothes are cleaned and ironed beforehand. Also be aware that thin fabrics may become more revealing under studio lighting, or in the glare of a camera flash.
When you're being photographed, take notice of your posture. Hunching or slouching can make you appear shorter and exaggerate your stomach. Normally, a tall, straight stance is best, but twisting your body and showing your better side can also work well. Keep your shoulders relaxed to ensure you look at ease.
Obviously, your face is the focus of any portrait. Unless you're deliberately trying to convey a specific emotion such as amusement or fear, an authentic smile is the best option. If you find that your smile often looks forced on photos, try recalling something that made you laugh, or think about a happy experience you had recently. And remember, it won't look genuine if you don't smile with your eyes as well - relax your eyes and eyebrows, and be prepared to let the viewer in.
The backdrop for your photo and the lighting conditions will also make a huge difference. Always be sure to have at look at the environment you are in and work out the best angle for the shot, and try to avoid standing with light directly hitting your face, or light coming from behind you, which would be overexposed. Having a mirror to hand is always helpful, but in some cases there won't be a mirror available. As long as you keep practising, you will soon become a lot happier about having your photo taken.
About the Author:
Nobody does it better than the pros. Sapphire Studios, one of London's leading photography studios, offer a fantastic service.
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