10 Ways To Look Better In Photos

How To Look Good In Pictures

Have you ever looked at a photo of yourself that somehow managed to ruin your entire day?! That may be a bit of an exaggeration, but I think we could all use a little help when it comes to looking good in pictures. Some of us get labeled as being “photogenic” (and others not so much), but I think a lot of that has to do with how you react to the camera. We all get caught in front of those flashing lights now and again, and when we do, here are some tips on how to look your very best!

1.The Slimming Stance

How you stand can instantly add or subtract 10+ pounds. If you stand with your hips shoulder width apart, your weight on your back foot, and your front leg slightly bent, you’ll create an instant slimming effect! For more before & after pictures like this

2. Don't Square Your Body

It makes sense. Standing straight into the camera can make you look frumpy. Standing at a 3/4 turn or even with your body to the side is much more flattering, especially if you’re with a group of people; it cuts your size in almost half. Go visit Rebecca Danzenbaker Photography for a lot more tips like this!

3. Forehead Forward, Chin Down

If there is anything you can do to be more photogenic, do this!! Even if you don’t have a double chin to hide, it accentuates your jaw line. It is also suggested that you squint your eyes slightly. Hop on over to Lifehacker for more information, including a video.

4. Arms Out

You’ve seen it on the Red Carpet a million times, and celebrities have a good reason for it. Keeping your arms away from your torso gives them more definition, making them appear smaller. It will also keep you from hiding the smallest part of your waist. One hand on the hip that is closest to the camera is popular, but if you’re not comfortable with that, just keep them from hugging your torso.

5. Relax

An unnatural smile is the easiest way to ruin a picture, making you look stiff and weird. If you have trouble with this, here’s a simple trick: Put your tongue behind your upper teeth and smile. Think happy thoughts and don’t forget to breathe!

6. Wear The Right Makeup

Because a camera is 2 dimensional, your makeup will look different on camera. Here is the essential list of makeup to wear for photos:

• Wear matte makeup; nothing that shines or shimmers. To lessen the shine even more, dab your t-zone with a tissue or facial blotting paper to eliminate shine, and dust a little powder on that nose! Even men on camera have makeup applied to help with reflection.
• Wear your makeup slightly darker than normal; especially around the eyes. A black liner and mascara helps make those eyes pop!
• Wear your lipstick a few shades darker than your skin. A little gloss is ok, too. Without any color, your lips tend to blend right into your face on camera.
• Fake lashes — They may not be something you would normally wear, but they can completely transform your eyes in photos.
• Don’t be afraid to apply your blush and bronzer a little heavier than normal. It will accentuate those cheek bones and give you a healthy glow.
• Concealer and foundation is also important for a flawless look. Apply it generously; it won’t show up on camera, but it will help even out your skin.

7. Add Extra Height & Body To Your Hair

Besides wearing a style that flatters your face, add a little bit of extra height to your crown, and volume to those locks. Hair tends to look duller and flatter in pictures, especially at the crown area. This will also help make your face appear more delicate.

8. Wear Camera Flattering Clothes

Although a lot of people like to hide under baggy clothes, they can actually make you look bigger, particularly in photos. Choose slim fitting clothes in dark shades. If you have an area that you don’t want to be showcased; ruffles, sheer layers, and draping work wonders in distracting the eye from those lumps and bumps.

9. Choose The Right Time Of Day

For outdoor photos, when the sun is overhead it tends to cast shadows in unflattering places; emphasizing lines on the face and bags under the eyes. The best time of day to be photographed is around dawn, when the sun is low in the sky. And, don’t forget to face towards the light!

10. Face The Mirror

When in doubt, practice! Stand in front of that mirror and smile, smile, smile. Angle your face in different positions to see what flatters you the most. It may sound strange, but it works! We all have a good angle, you just have to find yours and then work with it.