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Sure, a beautiful photograph takes some skill behind the lens, but it takes a little skill in front of it, too.

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  Step 1: Choose your clothes

  When choosing your clothes, leave bright colors, crazy patterns, and horizontal stripes in the closet. Neutral colors look best.

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  Step 2: Check your face

  Check your face in the mirror: Do you have any blemishes you could cover, or greasy skin that needs powdering? Could your eyes use some drop to clear up redness? Are your eyebrows trim and neat?

• Tip

  If you wear makeup, remember that colors will look more intense in photos, especially on black-and-white film.

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  Step 3: Take pictures outside in morning or before sunset

  Try to have the pictures taken outside in the morning or before sunset. The light is soft and flattering at these times, whereas high noon or flash photography can illuminate a little too much.

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  Step 4: Make sure camera is eye level

  Make sure the camera lens is at eye level or just slightly higher. Any lower and you’ll look like you have a double chin.

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  Step 5: Lean back & angle hip forward

  To appear more natural when standing for a photo, lean slightly back, with your weight on your rear foot, and angle one hip forward.

• Tip

  Keep your posture erect but not overly posed. Think “Greek Statue,” not “William Shatner.”

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  Step 6: Turn your head

  Turn your head two-thirds to one side or the other for a slimming effect on your face.

• Tip

  Avoid wide-angle lenses, which will widen the appearance of your face.

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  Step 7: Look at a light source

  Look at a light source, like a lamp or light, for a few moments. It reduces the size of your pupils and the possibility of red-eye. However, never look directly at the sun.

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  Step 8: Prevent blinking

  Just before the picture is taken, close your eyes and have the photographer count to three. Then open your eyes as he begins shooting. This is the best way to prevent blinking from ruining shots.

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  Step 9: Smile

  The last and most important part of a picture is the smile. Saying kitschy things like “cheese” forces a fake grin that makes you look like a newscaster or a local politician. Instead, think of a funny memory, which will bring out a naturally happy look.

• Fact

  The first commercially available color film was offered in France in 1907.