Everyone wants to look beautiful or handsome in photos, but sometimes we may not know how. In fact, there are a few tricks that will help you be more fluid in your photos. With just a little practice, you'll be more confident in your poses in front of the camera, whether you're taking selfies or being shot by a professional.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Take Casual Photos
Step 1. Pose in front of a nice backdrop
Check the background first to make sure nothing is distracting from you. If so, change the camera angle until a certain part of the background is not visible, or choose a different location. No matter how good your pose is, if there's something distracting in the background, that's what people will notice.
- For example, make sure there are no objects in the back that look like they're sticking out over your head, such as traffic signs or tree branches. Also check if there are people, trash, or beds that are still messy.
- For a cool and artistic impression, try standing in front of a brightly colored wall. However, avoid crowded patterns as they can distract the viewer.
Step 2. Face the light
Before taking a photo, orient yourself so that you are facing a soft light source. This will make your face glow, while standing with your back to the light will create a harsh, dark shadow on your face.
For example, if you're indoors, face the center of the room, or stand by a window facing out
Step 3. Adjust the camera so that it is pointing downwards for a clearer view of the face
Have the person taking your photo stand so the camera is slightly above your eyes. Then, look at the camera to create a captivating angle that focuses on your beautiful eyes.
Taking a camera like this can be for close-up photos and full body photos
Step 4. Relax your mouth and face
Gently close your lips, then imagine that you pull the corners of your lips up slightly to form a slight smile. This will relax the facial muscles, and with the eye in such a way, will produce interesting photos that make people wonder what you're hiding.
For a seductive impression, try smiling with only one corner of your mouth
Step 5. Pull your shoulders back
Before taking the photo, straighten your back, extend your neck, and pull your shoulders back. Good posture will make you look and feel more confident, and that confidence will make for better photos, both close-ups and full body.
By pulling the shoulders back, the neck also appears longer, which will make the chin and jawline more defined
Step 6. Tilt your body 30–45° towards the camera for a slimmer look
A straight body facing the camera will accentuate the width of the shoulders, chest and waist. If you want that part to appear slimmer, tilt your body slightly.
If you have a "flag side," make sure it's the side facing the camera
Step 7. Stand with one leg at an angle to the other
If the direction of the two legs is the same, the body will seem stiff and boxy. Instead, point one leg at a different angle.
- If you want, cross one leg in front of the other. The pose as if walking is also very interesting.
- Tilt a little to appear taller.
Step 8. Bend your arms slightly
To look relaxed and natural, bend your arms slightly. You can also place one or both hands on your hips, if you like, but push your elbows back to keep the pose relaxed.
- If you want your arms to look more muscular, tighten them by holding on to your body. However, if you want your arms to look slimmer, keep them away from your body.
- For the cross-arm pose, just cross it loosely so it doesn't seem tense.
Step 9. Interact naturally if you are taking pictures with other people
If you're posing with a partner or group, try to relax and arrange for everyone to do something different. However, don't be afraid to interact, such as looking into each other's eyes, holding hands, or embracing each other to add warmth.
- For example, if you're taking a picture with a group of friends, embrace the friend next to you. In photos with your partner, hug them and look at the camera.
- When in doubt, choose the pose that you find most relaxing and natural.
Method 2 of 4: Look Great in Selfies
Step 1. Hold the camera slightly above eye level for a better effect
Usually, selfie photos will be more interesting if you hold the camera up and tilt it slightly downwards. Then, look at the camera and raise your eyebrows slightly. This pose will make your eyes look wider and more beautiful.
Step 2. Try different camera angles to add variety
While camera shots from above are best for most people, don't be afraid to experiment with other ways, especially if you're going to be posting a lot of selfies. For example, hold the camera to your side, or stand in front of a mirror to show off cool outfits from head to toe.
Your social media followers might get bored if you keep posting pictures of yourself from the same angle
Step 3. Turn your face towards the light
Just like when photographed by a photographer, the face will sparkle more if it is directed to the nearest light source. However, avoid direct sunlight which leaves a harsh shadow on the face.
- If you're in the sun, find a nearby shaded spot where you can take a selfie.
- If the light is not supported, use the camera flash. You can also buy a portable ring light if you want a good light source anywhere.
Step 4. Extend your neck and sit or stand up straight
Imagine that there is a rope around your head pulling your body up. Lift your head and neck, and pull your shoulders down.
This will create a long line that accentuates the curve of the neck and shoulders
Step 5. Exhale slowly so that your lips appear full and relaxed
In the pose of smiling, pouting, or pouting, the mouth will automatically tighten while focusing on the photo. To relax your mouth more, exhale slowly from your lips just before pressing the camera button.
Don't let your cheeks fill with air as you exhale, as this will make your face appear rounder
Tip:
Try squinting a little to mimic the wrinkles in your eyes when you smile naturally.
Step 6. Take lots of photos, then study them to determine the best shooting angle
Take as many photos as possible, making small changes in facial expressions and the angle of the head and body. Then, see the results. Study them one by one, see what you like and what you don't. The more often you take selfies, the more you will know which angle is the best, then posing for selfies will feel more natural.
The perfect angle is different for everyone, and it takes experimentation until you find the one that works best. For example, you might take a photo from above if you have a large chin, but take a photo from the side or from below if you have a large forehead
Step 7. Find an interesting background
Don't repeat the same photo. Instead, search various places and try to include a little background. So there's something new about your selfies, as well as for recording experiences.
For example, you could take a selfie in front of your favorite restaurant one day, then upload a photo with your best friend waiting in line at the cinema the next day
Tip:
Try using the selfie stick for full-body or action shots, or if you want to include multiple backgrounds.
Method 3 of 4: Posing for Professional Photos
Step 1. Choose a plain or simple background
In professional photos, you have to be the main focus. Have the photographer take your picture in front of a plain background. Or, if you want, you can take pictures in your office or professional place. Make sure the background is set so that it is free from distractions that would distract the viewer.
For example, if you are a doctor and want to take pictures in the examination room, make sure the table is clean of promo materials and samples so that it doesn't fall apart
Step 2. Take a deep breath to relax
If you feel nervous or tense, it will show on your body and face. To be more comfortable, take deep breaths, which will help release any tension you may be feeling.
For example, inhale for a count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 4, and exhale for a count of 4. Repeat 2 or 3 times, or until you feel calmer
Step 3. Turn your face towards the nearest light source
When taking a passport or other professional photo, try sitting or standing so that your face is facing the brightest light in the room. So, there will be no shadow on the face.
If you use a professional photographer, they may provide their own light or use a reflector to reflect light onto your face
Step 4. Push your teeth with your tongue for a genuine smile
If you want to sound happy, smile widely, then press your tongue behind the front row of teeth. This will lift the cheeks resulting in a natural smile.
For an even more natural smile, think of someone or something you really like while posing
Step 5. Feel free to experiment with staring at the camera or looking away
When you look at the camera, you display confidence and courage. Soften your gaze, but don't be afraid to look directly at it. However, if you want candid photos, try looking into the distance.
Try this trick if you know you're going to be photographed:
To be comfortable in front of the camera, practice first 10 minutes by posing and trying facial expressions in front of the mirror so you know which angle is the best.
Step 6. Hold on to something if you don't want your hand to stand still
Hold the coffee cup, cell phone, or bag strap before taking the photo. So, you will not be confused about where to position your hands, and your pose will look more natural.
- If you don't have anything nearby at the time, try holding one of your wrists.
- You can also touch the cuff or collar, or tuck your hair behind your ear.
- If you put your hands in your pockets, try to keep your elbows slightly angled back.
Step 7. Stand straight and pull your shoulders back
Good posture not only makes you appear taller and creates a more attractive angle, it also makes you look more confident. When you look confident, it gives the impression that you are more professional, so clients will be more confident in your abilities.
Try to visualize as if there is a rope that extends from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Imagine someone pulling the rope up to lift your posture
Step 8. Turn your body towards the camera for a slimmer look
Instead of facing the camera straight, which will make the body wider, try tilting 30–40°. Combined with good posture, this pose will make you appear taller, slimmer, and confident, which will add to a professional feel.
If you choose a straight photo, but still want a slimming effect, stand at an angle, with your shoulders straight in front of the camera. This will make your waist and hips appear slimmer
Tip:
If you have broad shoulders and muscular arms, and want to show them off to make your photo appear more defined, cross your arms in front of your chest and stand straight facing the camera.
Step 9. Bend your arms and legs for a more natural look
Standing or sitting with your arms and legs straight will make you feel stiff and uncomfortable. Instead, try poses that reveal your legs and arms more naturally, such as standing with one knee bent and hands on your hips, or sitting cross-legged.
- Keep your arms away from your body if you want your arms to appear slimmer, or press them to your sides if you want them to appear more muscular.
- If you want to hold something, choose an object related to the profession. For example, if you are a teacher, hold a pen, and if you are a cook, hold a spatula.
Step 10. Ask the photographer to shoot slightly from the bottom if you want to appear more powerful
If you want a full-body photo, as well as being taller and slimmer, request that it be shot from below eye level. Then, the camera is pointed upwards so that the whole body enters. This will make you appear stronger and more powerful. So, make sure your pose is confident.
- For a pose like this, it's better if you stand far from the camera.
- This angle sometimes emphasizes the area under the chin so you need to raise your head slightly.
Tip:
This pose is stylish, but not everyone looks attractive with this choice. Just try it first, then check the results.
Method 4 of 4: Take Outdoors
Step 1. Avoid direct sunlight
If you take pictures under the sun, your eyes will squint because the glare and light will cast shadows on your face. Instead, choose a shady spot, then turn your face to indirect light.
- If you can't avoid the sun, create indirect light by facing away from the sun. If there is a reflector (or white cardboard), have one person hold it to reflect the light at you to prevent shadows on the face.
- The best times to take pictures are at sunrise and sunset because the light creates a soft warmth in the photo.
Step 2. Insert a natural scene in the background
The great thing about outdoor photos is that there are a lot of interesting things that can be included. Try taking pictures in front of a beautiful view, or sitting next to a tree for a natural and simple photo.
Make sure nothing is messing with the beauty of the backdrop, such as electrical wires
Step 3. Interact with whatever is around you
When you take photos outdoors, you have a unique opportunity to include nature in your photos. Try kissing a flower pose, or climbing a boulder.
Remember to always prioritize security. Never climb over a guardrail or other security just for the sake of a photo, and pay attention to your surroundings, including other people, animals and traffic
Step 4. Maximize the open space with the “big” pose
If you take photos indoors, there may not be much space to move around and experiment. However, outdoors, you can jump, spread your arms in the air, and interact with the world around you. Go out there and find inspiration.
Try some safe poses first. So, a safe result is already there so you can be more creative in the next pose
Tips
- If you can, check the pose first in the mirror or the front camera of the cellphone before taking pictures.
- Use a color that contrasts with the skin for a more interesting effect.
- Take multiple photos at once so you can pick your favourites.
- If you're being photographed by people, ask for suggestions on the poses that work best for you.
