I’ve read some really inspiring posts over the past few weeks on how to take brilliant photographs. I can’t really provide any tips there since my own camera is being held together by a piece of duct-tape but I can provide some tips on how you can look the best in your photographs. Bloggers love taking and posting photos; of themselves, of others. Let’s be honest, blogging is a bit narcissistic. The idea that someone out there is going to find your life interesting is a bit narcissistic. But hey, it’s not the worst thing out there in terms of egotistical activities!
How to be Photogenic
I’ve heard so many people claim that they aren’t photogenic. That’s not true! Everyone is photogenic it’s just about discovering how. As an actress I’ve learned to be comfortable in front of the camera and have dabbled in some modeling. Plus most of my friends are very artistic and I get free headshots in exchange for posing for their portfolios. I’m not claiming to be a professional model but I’ve spent weeks in front of the camera so I’ve picked up some tricks I thought I’d pass along. (Especially since I’ve been reading a flurry of preparing for engagement pic session posts lately.) So keep these tips in mind for looking your best at events like weddings, engagement sessions, family reunions and vacations etc!
*All the photographs that you will see are a small part of my personal portfolio. For that reason, please be respectful and not repin them without my permission.
Tip: No matter how outgoing you are, the more time you’ve spent with your photographer the better your photos will be. I always insist on having at least a cup of tea and a chat with the photographer before the session starts. Of course, some photographers are super, super busy, but if their too busy too take time to ease you into things then the pictures are going to show an element of unfamiliarity. Nothing bad will happen if you suggest breaking the ice first.
Tip: If your eyes are being seen in the photograph, a general rule of thumb is that they really need to pop. Talk to your photographer, this is something you need to work together to acheive. When I really need to make my eyes pop, I either close them or look up and away for a few seconds, then quickly look back at the camera. And then the photographer takes the photo as soon as you’ve reconnected to the lens. This really helps if one eye is smaller than the other (and most people are like that). My right eye is smaller than my left so I have to send more energy to that eye.
Tip: If you want to look more innocent or younger, have your photo taken from slightly above you.
The two above photos were taken several minutes apart. You can see that I appear younger in the photo on the left due to being shot from above. This is because when the subject is below the photographer they are in a vulnerable position. (Those two photographs are by Jennie Scott)
Tip: Angles are interesting! While most of the time you want your face to by symmetrical, symmetry in the body can be boring. It can also make you look wider than you actually are.
Tip: If you want to move from pose to pose, think of it as a slow dance: fluid but giving the photographer enough time to grab an interesting shot.
Tip: Engage your core muscles even if the camera is only seeing your face. That sense of internal engagement reads throughout your whole body (including your face) and elongates you!
Tip: As Tyra says on ANTM “Smize”. This is important but I know loads of actors whose headshots have been ruined with a generic “I have a secret” look. Always have a specific thought behind what you’re doing with you’re face. Not “look coy” or “look happy” but maybe reflect on a incident where you embarrassed yourself in front of your first crush.
Tip: If smiling on command makes you tense up and you get an awkward “say cheese” smile, then start exhaling through your mouth and smile while you are exhaling. The sheer activity of exhaling will loosen you up a bit.
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| Photo by Jennie Scott |
Tip: In fact, practice smiling in the mirror until you know when your smile feels just right.
Tip: In fact, never hold your breath.
Tip: Don’t look at the camera, look through it or slightly above the centre of the lens.
Tip: Listen to the photographer. They aren’t your enemy, they’re trying to help.
Tip: If you’re going to be in a studio and not outside ask if you can bring music. It will help relax you and relaxation is key to good photographs.
Tip: Even though it will take away some of your session time (if you’re paying by the hour) quickly ask the photographer if you can see the last 3 photos taken so you can see what you need it improve on.
Tip: Obviously, if you’re taking pictures for something important the general advice is that you need lots of water and a good sleep the night before. In all honesty, you need to be doing these things a full WEEK before.
I’m not saying that you need to try this hard for every occasion! I hardly ever look like this in a regular post because it does take effort. But there are times when you want the picture to appeal to you years from now and that’s the best time to use these tips.
