Look Your Best in Photos By Jane Marie

 

click on the photos of Martha Bear® and Jill to enlarge them

Some people hate to have their picture taken.  I'm one of them, but I have to admit the photo I detested fifteen years ago is looking better to me with every passing day because my appearance has changed.  Remember, nothing and no one stays the same.  So, forget the strange hairdo, the wide lapels and funny shoes of the past, and appreciate those old photos as well as the different, yet still attractive face staring back at you in the mirror today. 

One click and your image is captured for a lifetime.  What a treasure to bestow on your family.  Every person on earth deserves to be remembered, and each stage of our lives is a gift for which to be thankful.  To that end, have your picture taken today.  Here are some easy ways to help you look your best. 

What to wear 

Wear colors, the best being reds, bright blues and greens.  White is dull and will actually brighten any flash, if used, and wash out the picture.  Wild patterns can add pounds.

Powder your nose.  You don't want the light to reflect on your nose.

High heels make you legs look longer.  Make sure your shoes are polished.

Long sleeve shirts are more flattering on most men and women than short sleeves or no sleeves.

Well manicured fingernails are a must for a portrait.

Go easy on the accessories.  

 

Where and When 

Stay out of direct sunlight, which is very harsh and unflattering.  Outdoor shade is best, but beware of standing beneath trees because the leaves may let in enough light so you'll look as if you've been painted with polka dots. 

Stand in front of an uncluttered background.

Make sure your back is to the sun so you're not squinting. 

The pros say the best time to shoot color pictures is two hours after sunrise and two hours before sunset when the colors will look the best and the shadows are softer. 

 

Posing 

For a more formal and professional look, turn your body at a 45-degree angle to the camera with one-foot forward and your head and shoulders facing the camera.  Be sure and stand up straight.  If you pull your shoulders back, you will appear regal.  The entire pose will also make you look thinner.

Keep your arms down at your sides to hide wide hips or bend them at the elbows with hands clasped to cover a thick waist.   

Action shots are always very interesting.  Bring your picture to life and tell a story by what you are doing - baking a pie, cutting fresh flowers in your garden or feeding the baby.

Got a double chin?  Who doesn't?  Hide it by propping your chin atop your fist and leaning on your elbow.  You see this pose a lot and sagging skin may be one of the reasons.  Stand behind someone and lean your chin on his or her shoulder.  Just by dipping your chin slightly, you'd be surprised how that will help.  Practice in the mirror to see what is most flattering for you.

A soft smile is usually more flattering than none at all or a wide grin.

 

Final tip 

The most important thing is to RELAX.  I know, it's easier said than done because we're all so self-conscious, but please give it a try.  Come on, take a deep breath, let it out, freeze (so the picture isn't blurred) and smile, darn you, smile!