How to Look Great in Photographs
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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Capture your subject in the best light with these photography tips that cover everything from nature and still-life photography to fashion photography.
You Will Need
- A photographer
- A camera with flash
Steps
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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?
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The first commercially available color film was offered in France in 1907.
