Now that pictures are all over the place (thanks to smartphones, Facebook and Instagram), it's easier than ever to find yourself seen in a handful of pictures that you don't even remember taking.
Make the most of the moment by looking your very best every time the shutter snaps with some helpful tips.
PRACTICE YOUR POSE
What would you do to improve your skills at anything else? You’d practice! It sounds corny, but spend a little time practicing in front of the mirror for a few days. You'll quickly discover what your best angles are, and what poses are the most flattering. You can even take a couple selfies to compare poses. While you’re at it, practice different expressions and body positions.
TWIST TO LOOK SLIMMER
There aren't many things more humiliating than discovering a tagged photo of yourself on Facebook that packs on ten pounds with just the flash of a camera bulb. Trust me--I've been there! How you pose can make a tremendous difference in how thin you look in pictures. The strategy is pretty simple. You can make a huge difference by standing slightly to the side and twisting towards the camera. It instantly slims you.
TILT YOUR HEAD
When posing for a picture, follow the lead of Hollywood celebrities. They basically make a living out of never taking a bad picture! To avoid a double- (or triple-) chin, first elongate your neck, then angle your jaw down just a touch. It makes your face look a lot slimmer, and is pretty simple to do.
APPLY MASCARA TO TOP LASHES ONLY
Your makeup can greatly change the way you look in pictures. Mascara can be a big one--it can totally change your appearance. If getting extra rest just isn't possible, fake it. Two coats of black mascara on the upper lashes lift the eyes and hides puffiness. Curling lashes before applying mascara enhances the effect and makes you look like you've had an extra hour of sleep. It can make a HUGE difference.
TURN OFF THE FLASH
You probably noticed that the flash in your iPhone’s camera doesn't make for the most gorgeous photos. If possible, make use of natural light to make you look more photogenic--and for a better photo overall.
HYDRATE SKIN
Fresh, hydrated skin always looks better on camera, so be sure to use a moisturizer well ahead of any important pictures. It's always a good idea to moisturize anyway, but if you need an extra reason to keep your skin moisturized and healthy, this is it!
SMILE AND BE YOURSELF
You’ll look best in photos when you look like you’re happy and enjoying the moment--and when you look like yourself. Above all, have fun! Those are always the best pictures to have anyway, right? The more your fun, natural personality comes through, the better the results.