How to Look Good in Front of the Camera

By Jada Parrish

Posted: 04/13/17

Category: Photography Tips

My super sweet husband has been pushing me WAY outside my comfort zone lately and getting me to step in front of the camera. I feel my best and most-confident whenever I am behind the camera, but put me in front of it and it's a totally different story! I start to feel so awkward and unsure whenever the camera is on me.

I feel like it's important to our business for people to see us and know us on a more personal level, but that has always been a struggle for me because I really don't like putting myself front and center. I've definitely been working on it though and have begun to feel more comfortable than I ever have on the other side of the lens. Alot of that is because I've learned a few tricks for how to pose myself and feel confident when I have my photo taken. I hope these help you too!!

1. Giggle

Whenever we have our photo taken together this drives David crazy, but it makes me have a much more genuine and authentic smile. 

2. Shift your weight

To avoid looking stiff and uncomfortable in your photos, shift your weight to one leg more than the other. In guys the best way to do this is by placing one foot a few inches in front of the other. In women, try bending your front knee in slightly. 

3. Find your best angle

Let's be honest. We all have a "good side." There is undoubedly one angle that you prefer of yourself over the others. Take selfies of yourself turning your head different ways to find yours. Usually with women, your best side is the one that your bangs fall to. And having someone shoot slightly from above is flattering to literally everyone!

4. Try different smiles

Before spending the money on professional photos, try out some different expressions. Take selfies or practive in a mirror. Try out a variation of smiles to see if you prefer yourself with a large smile or a softer expression.

5. Look away from the camera

My favorite photos of myself are always the ones that seem a little candid. The best way to achieve this is by giggling to yourself and glancing slighting away from the camera. Look down and smile - just to the side of the camera and smile - or even past the camera. 

6. Pop your booty out

If you're having a full body shot taken, rotate your hips back (aka pop that booty out!). This will drastically slim your legs and create a much more flattering silhouette.

7. Angle yourself

Standing totally straight on to the camera is pretty much never going to be very flattering. Instead, turn one shoulder forward and stand at a 3/4 turn. Then, turn your neck so that your head to is straight on to the camera. This will make you look a good 10 pounds thinner.