Want to know how to look better in photos?
We’re more than one year into the COVID-19 crisis. Many of you have spent way more time at home this past year, either working entirely or partly from home, or just not going as many places.
A lot of you are ready for this to change.
All indications are that as we lurch toward improvement in the crisis, in some locations more than others of course, many people are eager to get out and go somewhere. The travel and hospitality industry is poised for better times as summer arrives. Whether that involves getting on a plane and crossing time zones, or just getting in the car and going somewhere closer, many people are ready to do some things.
And that means that you and others will have your phones and cameras out, ready to record and share the good times.
Are you ready to appear in photos again, at long last?
Yeah, some of you may have put on a few pounds over the past year. You could call it the “COVID-19.” Pounds, that is. Well, hopefully it isn’t that many. But whether it is or not, reappearing with family and friends may serve as a motivator to shed some of those pounds and get back to taking control of the way you want to present yourself to the world.
It may also involve setting aside whatever your quarantine uniform is, and paying a bit more attention to what you wear out and about.
In any case, over the coming summer months, you can be sure that you and others will be sharing images of the good times, whether it is a backyard BBQ, or a trip to Hawaii.
Here are some tips for looking your best in the inevitable photo season that is about to unfold (whether you’re ready or not)…
Dress for confidence.
Whether you have a few extra pounds, or have used the quarantine months to get in fighting shape, wear clothes that make you feel confident and at your best. More than anything, pay attention to fit.
Practice smiling and even posing, in front of a mirror (when you’re alone!).
Then you’ll know what smile to use when facing the camera, and what it will look like.
Study photos of yourself.
Note what you like and what you don’t. Keep doing the things you like.
How to stand or sit.
Angle your body and/or your face to the camera. 10-15 degrees, rather than looking at the camera head on. This will accentuate your jaw line.
Create good posture. Stand with confidence and don’t slump your shoulders.
See some examples in the Gallery on my website: https://cliffordberger.com/style/
Think about where you put your hands.
Avoid putting them in your pockets. Also avoid folding your hands in front of you, as if you’re a groomsman in a wedding. Try hooking one thumb in your belt or the front of a pocket, and let the other hang loose. Or try the folded arm look, if you feel comfortable with that.
Know which side of your face you favor.
Studies have shown that for many people it is the left side (for me it’s my right–go figure).
Take photos from above.
For selfies, hold the camera slightly above your face. Same when someone else is taking your photo. If you are seated, it is best for the camera person to be standing up.
A few other tips…
Keep your chin down
Smile with your eyes
Don’t always look directly at the camera lens in candid photos.
Blink just before the camera clicks.
Avoid direct bright light.
And if you forget any or all of these things–don’t worry about it, just have some fun. You’ll look great anyway!
