Tips for taking photos to post

Choose a simple background to ensure the viewer’s attention is on you, not what’s happening behind you.

Smile! It’s the easiest way to look relaxed and confident in your photo.

One of the first things to keep in mind is the limited format of a Facebook profile picture. For a crisper shot and easier recognition, consider taking a close-up of your face or upper body.

Know your angles

• Lower your front shoulder slightly to create more dynamic angles and elongate your neck.
• Keep your body turned to the side and your face toward the camera.
• Lower your head to accentuate your eyes, or raise your chin to make your lips appear fuller.

Lighting and background

• When shooting indoors, avoid overhead lights when possible. Ceiling light can cast shadows that distort images and add unwanted shading.
• Use floor lamps and soft lighting in order to get the perfect glow.
• Also, make sure your background is simple and uncluttered—you want the viewer looking at you, not what’s happening behind you.

Smile!

• The best way to appear relaxed in your profile picture is by smiling! You’ll invite positive feedback and exude confidence.
• Find additional tips to help you look good in photos.

When possible, try to depict your subjects in a natural, non-posed state.

Don’t let shutter lag ruin what could be an excellent action shot.

Use these tips to for appealing photos that all your friends on Facebook will be sure to love—and “Like”!

Take spontaneous group photos

• Posed, planned photos are for portrait studios. Make sure that some your snapshots catch your subjects in a natural, everyday state.
• Try something new: avoid the typical straight-on shot and take photos of people from different angles.

Capture action shots

• Shutter lag (the pause after you trigger the shutter before a camera takes a photo) can cause an otherwise-great action shot to appear blurry.
• To avoid shutter lag, hold the shutter button on your camera halfway down, wait for your subject to make their move, and then press the button down the rest of the way.

Don’t forget your four-legged friends

• Facebook is an ideal place to share pictures of your pets. Find tips for photographing pets.

Take plenty of photos

• The more you take, the more you’ll have to choose from. Use a high-capacity memory card for capturing plenty of fabulous shots.

Tagging

• In group shots, be sure to tag everyone so all of your friends can share your great photos.

Find more tips for taking better photos.