Getting those portraits right, once and for all

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Most of us have been unpleasantly surprised (OK, startled) when we’ve looked at photos of ourselves. Everyone says the camera doesn’t lie, but where did that extra chin come from? Why do my arms look so fat? Is my nose really that long? And when did my knees become so… substantial?

It’s enough to make a person terminally camera-shy-which is pretty tricky when another camera may be as near as the closest cell phone, but don’t worry, it’s actually pretty easy to look good on camera – and when you know how to look good, it becomes a lot easier to photograph others so they look good!

Face it-it’s nearly impossible to avoid being photographed. And it could even be necessary: You need a good photo of yourself to use in an online personal ad; you’re the mother or father of the bride; or you just need an ID card for work that you and everyone else will have to look at for the next five years.

Before you resort to hiding behind potted plants or one of the bridesmaids, check out these deceptively simple tips from professional photographers.

For candid and spontaneous photos:

Persuade Uncle Norman to take his outdoor family reunion photos in light shade, so you aren’t squinting into the bright sun and creating a silhouette of your own nose on your left cheek.

Women: Avoid wearing sleeveless or tank tops or tops with cap sleeves when you suspect a photo session is in your near future, like at a birthday party or wedding reception. You don’t have to be fat to have odd bulges suddenly appear on your arms.

If you’re wearing shorts, put in a special request for a zoom shot that eliminates legs, even if your knees are beautiful under normal circumstances.

Don’t stand against a wall, directly facing the camera; you’ll look like you’re about to face a firing squad. The final result will be more flattering if you stand at an angle and position your head as if you’re showing off just one earring (or ear). Bonus-you can show your best side.

For the unavoidable full shots, like photos of the wedding party or large groups, avoid the fig leaf position-arms at your sides, with a slight bend that allows you to clasp your hands together in front of you. Instead, stand an angle and bend the arm closest to the camera at the elbow and hold it loosely at your waist. Although it may feel unnatural, the photo will be more flattering.

For non-professional posed shots:

You want a close-up, so allow the camera to go no further down than your waist. Your goal is to show the sparkle in your eyes and your best smile.

Wear a solid color; keep prints or patterns in your closet. Most people should avoid all white. Dark colors are usually most flattering, but if you look good in vivid colors, go for it.

Wear tops with high necklines-crewnecks, v-necks and modified scoop necklines are flattering and turtlenecks look good on everyone. Showing too much skin can not only make your neck look short and thick, it draws attention away from your face. Frame your face instead. Wear long sleeves if your arms are in the shot.

Avoid too-bright lighting-it creates shadows where you don’t want them. Shoot outside on a slightly cloudy day or stand in light shade. Standing in the front doorway allows soft light on your face while creating a dark background.

Avoid cluttered, distracting and busy backgrounds.

Women: wear make-up, but not so much that your photo looks like a floozy shot that screams for a white feather boa. Use eye liner, neutral eye shadow, and mascara, and try to cover splotchiness or red spots with foundation or concealer.

Men: shave just before you are photographed, whether you think you need it or not. The camera can pick up five-o’clock shadow better than you can. Women: If you wear jewelry, keep it simple-one strand around your neck and simple hoop or stud earrings (a brooch can be substituted for a necklace).

Play with the camera angle. If you have an extra chin or two, have the camera positioned slightly higher so you can look upward. If you want to minimize your proboscis, position the camera slightly lower so you can tip your head down a bit. If you have multiple chins and a prominent nose, like so many of us do, better stick to straight-on shots.

Keep your hair off your face as much as possible. It can hide your face and make shadows.

Before the click, take several deep breaths so you appear relaxed. Let your eyes smile. Lick your lips and tuck your tongue behind your teeth. Take more shots than you think you need, so you have more choices.

Granted, our photos won’t be confused with a Gisele Bundschen or Marcus Schenkenberg layout, but at least we have a fighting chance of not looking older, fatter, paler, shorter, taller, harsher, and bumpier than we really are. After all, maybe the camera doesn’t lie, but it sure can exaggerate.

This article was written by Marjorie Burke for Photocritic. If you fancy writing a guest article, get in touch!

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This post, "Getting those portraits right, once and for all", is part of these categories: All articles, was posted by Haje Jan Kamps and saw the light of day on the 6th of March 2008. I hope you liked it.