I know, we’ve all been there. We look at our pictures and comment we’re ugly. The group photo from last night’s party is posted on social media and suddenly there’s a mad scramble to untag ourselves.

Why? Because despite our best efforts, we just don’t look as fabulous as we hoped to. And it’s not because we’re not photogenic, no siree. There are quite a few sneaky factors that could be sabotaging our goal of looking our best in photos.

So make sure you’re not committing any of these mistakes that could be sabotaging your goal of looking your best in photos.

Ok, You need To Practice!

Let’s cut to the chase, shall we? The adage “practice makes perfect” didn’t materialize out of thin air. It has been passed down generations for a reason. And yes, oh yes, it applies to looking photogenic too. Now don’t roll your eyes at me! This is solid advice.

Think about it; you wouldn’t step onto a dance floor without knowing a few steps, would you? So why would you step in front of a camera without knowing your best angles and poses? By practising in front of a mirror, you can try out different poses, angles, and even facial expressions to see what works best for you. You can discover the magic angle that accentuates your jawline or the smile that doesn’t make you look like you’re in pain.

Remember, being photogenic isn’t about being naturally beautiful; it’s about being comfortable and confident in front of the camera. And that, my friend, comes with practice. So stop positioning your body randomly and hoping for the best.

Unsure of What to Do with Your Hands?
Hands in images can feel ill at ease, whether they’re hanging limply by your side or perched on your hips. How about grasping a prop such as a mug of coffee or a pair of shades, sliding your hands into your pockets, or mimicking the gesture of tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear.

Smile with your eyes.

Smiling with your eyes, an art made popular by the iconic Tyra Banks, is a truly legitimate trick that can transform your photographs and interactions.

They often say, “eyes are the window to the soul,” and rightly so. The eyes hold the capacity to express a spectrum of emotions and stories untold. Even when you don’t curve your lips into a smile, but allow your eyes to do the smiling, you can capture a beautiful image. It’s a subtle yet powerful mode of expressing joy, warmth, and positivity.

Now, try combining the two – smile with your eyes and your mouth. It’s like adding a pinch of salt to a dish to enhance its flavor. The result is simply stunning! There’s a certain charm and vibrancy that this kind of smile brings. It’s not just about looking good in front of the camera; it’s about radiating genuine happiness and positivity that reaches out and touches others. So, go ahead and practice this art of smiling  ( in the mirror)- let your eyes do the talking and light up the world around you. Voila – you’re not just beautiful; you’re captivating!

You’re not Moving Around

Feeling a bit rigid? Get moving. After each snapshot, subtly adjust your stance and facial direction. Hands hanging loose? Elevate one to your waist. Looking directly into the lens? Slightly tilt it to the left. Now a bit to the right. Now, with the hand not resting on your waist, playfully twirl your hair. It’s common for individuals to default to their usual pose when facing a camera, so push yourself to make minor changes. Over time, you’ll start recognizing which postures are more flattering for you.

Lightning

The Secret is Illumination and the use of light is crucial to enhancing your photogenic skills. The gentle, spread out and pleasing quality of natural light makes it your top ally. For optimal outcomes, consider snapping shots close to a window or outdoors in the wee hours of the morning or late in the day. When navigating artificial light, aim to position the light source ahead of you to dodge stark shadows

Dressing
The clothes you choose to wear can significantly impact how you appear in photos. Opting for neutral shades may offer your pictures a timeless, classic feel, whereas vibrant hues could make you pop. Choose outfits that complement your skin colour and boost your self-assurance.

Skin and Hair

Your skin and hair play a crucial role in enhancing your overall image, especially in pictures. The key to achieving that perfect glow lies in maintaining consistent care for your skin and hair. It all starts with developing a regular skincare routine, tailored to meet your unique needs. Remember, your skin is as individual as you are, so listen to what it needs and nourish it accordingly.

For men looking to be more photogenic, maintaining a well-groomed beard or a clean-shaven look can significantly enhance your image. Whether you choose to sport a beard or prefer a more clean-cut appearance, ensure it’s well-maintained and fits with your overall style.