Greetings! Do you usually take hundreds of photos and can’t find one picture that you like? Do you find your smile or body pose awkward when taking a photo? You’re not alone. Being in front of the camera isn’t easy. The good news is that posing is a learned skill. That’s why I’ve put together a list of tips that will help you out.
- Prepare. Look through pictures of yourself that you like and identify what poses flatter you. Do you look better from a certain angle? Do you tilt your head to a side? Test a couple of poses in front of a mirror to get comfortable with the photoshoot. Equally important, spot the things you don’t like about your pictures and avoid them.
- Talk to your photographer. They will gladly share tips before the photo shoot, as well as during the session. Both of you need to be on the same page and aim at the same results. Feeling comfortable with your photographer will make better pictures.
- Wear the right clothes for your figure. Avoid patterns. If you want to look slimmer, go for darker clothes. If you aim for a subtle look, choose pastel colors. Avoid baggy clothes, as they look bad on everybody.
- Wear makeup. It will make your skin tone look better. Put on foundation and blush. Stick to bright lipsticks only. Mascara is mandatory for women, as well as filling in your eyebrows. Makeup will add definition to your face. Don’t forget to refresh it between shots.
- Take pictures in natural light. For an outdoor photo session, you will look better between 3 and 4 pm. If you’re doing a photoshoot for the first time, whether with a professional photographer or a friend, my advice is to do it outdoors. Your photographs will look more natural in an environment that you know well.
- Try different camera angles. A shot above your level will be more flattering than a plain old front shot. A flight of stairs will help taking photos of this sort.
- Be yourself. Instead of faking a smile or laughter, have a conversation with the photographer. The trick will unveil natural reactions, and your mouth won’t look weird when you smile.
- Use props. You will look more relaxed holding a balloon, a hat, a flower. The object needs to compliment your look and fit your style.
- Take hundreds of pictures. If you put effort into a photoshoot, make the most out of it. Sometimes, your photographer will be able to combine different elements from similar pictures.
- Have fun. Enjoy your photoshoot and the pictures will capture your mood.
Photography is turning a moment into a lifetime memory. Choose the right photographers for your photoshoots and follow my blog to look your best. Say cheese!