We’re not claiming that being photogenic is the most important thing in life, but for those of us without a personal glam team on standby, holiday parties with photo booths can feel a bit stressful. Add in social media's ability to instantly upload and tag every shot, and we’re all haunted by the fear of an unflattering Facebook photo surfacing. But what about that friend who always looks flawless—never moody, no red-eye? What’s her secret to always being camera-ready?
It turns out there are some clever tricks that take only a moment longer but deliver far more flattering results. From camera angles and face positioning to the perfect word for a genuine smile (spoiler: it’s not “cheese”), we’ve gathered 10 fantastic tips that will help you nail every photo. Your friend might just have some competition. Scroll down for the best advice on becoming more photogenic, and get ready for your close-up.
Most people have a “good side,” but fashion photographer Garance Doré (backed by science) says the left side of the face is often more attractive.
Never stand nearest to the camera or you’ll appear disproportionately larger. Instead, align yourself on the same plane as everyone else in the shot.
Fashion blogger Chriselle Lim suggests a lower angle visually elongates your body, making you look taller and slimmer.
Angling your head a bit is more flattering than facing the camera head-on—it adds depth to your features. Hello, cheekbones!
If you’re seated, have the photographer shoot from above while you tilt your face up toward the camera—this helps define your jawline. Doré calls it “a godsend!”
When posting, crop the image so your body fills the frame. This creates the illusion of more vertical length.
Believe us, this one really works.
Putting your tongue behind your teeth while smiling prevents an overly wide grin. Don’t forget to smile with your eyes so you don’t look unhappy.
Glancing at a light source just before the photo is taken shrinks your pupils, helping to reduce red-eye.
The hard “e” sound at the end of “money” lifts the corners of your mouth and makes your eyes crinkle, mimicking a genuine smile. Coming up next: the best spring/summer 2017 fashion trends you need to know. Opening images: Getty
