How to Look Thinner in Photographs
Contrary to popular belief, pictures do lie. So make sure they're saying you're skinnier than you really are.
Up next in How to Dress for Your Body Type (32 videos)
You don't have to have the perfect body to look amazing; just find the clothing styles that work best with your body type, with the help of these videos.
You Will Need
- A monochromatic outfit
- A body shaper
- A heavy object to hold
- A natural smile
- High heels
Steps
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Step 1
Dress for success
If you know in advance you’re going to be photographed, dress all in one color, wear a body shaper, and make sure your clothes fit well.
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Women who are wearing a dress or skirt should strap on some high heels -- the kind that dramatically arches your foot. This will make your legs look thinner and more toned.
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Step 2
Check the camera height
Make sure you are not being photographed from below; that angle alone can add up to 50 pounds!
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Step 3
Put your best foot forward
Ladies, if you’re standing, strike a red carpet pose by turning a bit sideways and putting one leg in front of the other, toe pointed at an angle and knee slightly bent. Shift your weight to the back leg.
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Step 4
Cross your legs
If you’re sitting, cross your legs and tuck the calf of the front leg partly behind the bottom leg.
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Step 5
Keep your chin up
To avoid the dreaded double chin, tilt your chin a bit upward.
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Press the back of your tongue up against the back of the roof of your mouth. This tenses the muscles in your jaw, minimizing a double chin.
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Step 6
Position your arms
Position your arms so that they are away from your body. Placing one on a hip is a good look.
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Bare arms? Hold something heavy in your hands; it will make your arms look toned.
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Step 7
Suck in your stomach
Stand up straight, pull your shoulders back, and suck your stomach in and up, like you’re trying to zip up a tight pair of jeans.
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In a group shot, position yourself in the back; those closest to the lens look the biggest.
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Step 8
Don’t say cheese
Don’t say cheese; it will give you chipmunk cheeks. Just go for a natural smile.
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In 2008, a Texas congressional candidate caught flak for mailing out a brochure showing a composite photo of his head on a slimmer body.
