How to look good in photos

People extract so much information from a photo, making a genuine, high-quality picture even more important.

When your only representation is a picture, it’s important to make sure it says what you want it to. Here are some examples of instances you may want to look your best in a photo:

• Social media networks such as Facebook and LinkedIn
• Business cards and brochures
• Online dating sites like Match.com and eHarmony
• Holiday newsletters and Christmas cards
• Wedding announcements and save-the-date cards
• Those family vacation photos you know will be around forever

Ask a friend to shoot some full-length shots before a big event to make certain your outfit is flattering from all angles.

When you know in advance that you’re going to have your photo taken (at a friend or relative’s wedding, graduation, or any party in your honor) take steps to prepare:

The week before:

• Try a run through in your planned outfit and have a practice photo session with a friend.
• If you’re thinking about getting a haircut or trim, schedule it a week beforehand to settle in to your new cut or style.
• Drink lots of water for healthy, hydrated, and glowing skin.

The night before:

• Pick out your photo-day outfit (see below for dos and don’ts on what to wear).
• Get lots of sleep.
• Avoid excess alcohol/caffeine.

A colorful shirt will show up well in photos and brighten your skin tone.

White is not an ideal color to wear in photos,
since it can often wash out your complexion.

They may be pretty, but bold patterns and graphics don’t always translate well in photos.

DO:

Dress in bright, solid colors
Vibrant colors (not to be confused with neon hues) will help you look less pale or washed-out. Also, stick to solids; busy patterns or designs (such as stripes) can be distracting and even make you appear bulkier than normal.

Know your colors
Individuals with pink or rosy skin undertones look best in cool colors, like blue and purple. Those with golden or apricot undertones look best in warm colors, such as mocha and red.

Maximize your features
Reduce the appearance of dark under-eye circles and blemishes by covering with concealer. Play up your eyes by applying mascara for an instant pop.

Keep blotting paper on hand
Blotting papers are great for eliminating shine for men or women without make-up.

DON’T:

Clutter your neckline
Scarves or excess jewelry can distract from the photo’s main subject—you!

Wear black or white
Solid black tends to “disappear” in photos, and white is notorious for washing-out skin tones, especially when near the face.

Sport shiny clothes or busy patterns
Shiny, sparkly, or reflective fabric not only distracts, but can also create the illusion that you’re larger than you are. The same is true for busy patterns and bold designs like stripes, polka dots, and plaid.

Overdo your makeup
You want your photos to be an accurate representation of who you are; if you don’t normally wear lipstick or mascara, don’t feel like you have to just for the photo.

DO: Stand at a slight angle to the camera.
DON’T: Stand near a bright, distracting background.

Take plenty of photos so that you have a variety of poses to choose from when selecting your favorites.

Keep these tips in mind to when you hear the shutter click:

DO:

• Show your good side (it’s often the side where your hair parts).
• Lower your front shoulder slightly to create more dynamic angles and elongate your neck.
• Stick out your chin a tiny bit to prevent double chin.
• Express yourself through your eyes: think positive thoughts or just bring energy into your gaze.
• Blink halfway through a count of three (if the photographer gives you one) so that your eyes won’t be mid-blink for the shot.
• Try pinching the apples of your cheeks for a last-minute touch of color. (Yes, it really works!)
• Feel comfortable, confident, and have fun!

DON’T:

• Face the camera head-on; standing at a slight angle instantly slims your silhouette.
• Stand too far apart when posing with a group. Even if standing much closer than usual feels odd, it will look natural in the photo.
• Hesitate to take a lot of shots—the more pictures you take, the more you’ll have to choose from when it’s time to select your favorites.
• Just stand there! Experiment with poses and give the photographer a range of expressions.

While natural sunlight is preferable, avoid excessive backlighting.

Lighting can be tricky for non-professional photographers. Follow these tips for an easier experience:

• Take advantage of natural light, whether shooting outside or in your home.
• Use a flash to fill in shadows when shooting indoors.
• Utilize the warmer light of early morning and late afternoon.
• Use your camera’s red-eye pre-flash, if available.

DON’T:

• Place the subject against an overly-bright background or window.
• Use a flash too close to your subject.
• Use a flash to fill in shadows if you’re shooting outside.

It’s simple to adjust photo brightness.

So you have a photo you like … if it weren’t for those glowing red eyes.

Learn how to reveal the true potential of any photo through photo editing. Remove red-eye, crop your photo, adjust photo brightness, and more.

It’s easy to improve your photo using photo-editing software or the editing tools built-in to some HP Photosmart printers. Watch a demo to see how it works.

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