5 tips to look your best in photos

The photo to the left is a self portrait that I took in the studio while I was waiting for a client who ran a little late. Nothing like making the most of your time. As I was taking a couple of quick shots I was inspired to share some tips for helping you look your best in photos. 

You don't have to be a model to photograph well, you just have to keep a couple of things in mind and even your snapshot backyard photos will look amazing. Here are 5 simple tips that will help you get the most out of your images, and help you feel confident in front of the camera.

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Tip 1 - darken your brows

You can balance the shape of your face by simply darkening your brows one shade darker which will really give your make-up maximum impact in your photographs. If you are doing your make-up yourself I suggest practicing prior to your session with brow darkening. There are pencils, powders and waxes available to accomplish this, and you may want to experiment with more than one medium to see what works best for you. I highly recommend one of the several youtube tutorials available from make-up artists to ensure proper technique. Kandee Johnson is my favorite make-up artist youtube blogger. Here is her eyebrow tutorial, it's under 3 minutes and totally worth it! _  <click here

Tip 2 - know your angles

If you're prepping for a photo shoot I recommend practicing in the mirror to find and get to know what you feel are your best angles. Knowing which side you prefer to be photographed on and how it feels to get a certain "look" that you'd like to achieve will help ensure that you get the final image result you're going for. It also helps the photographer know what you prefer and play up on your best side. 

Tip 3 - Form fitting clothes

Did you just think to yourself... "wait, the camera adds 10 pounds". Well if you're wearing a loose billowy top it will most likely add 30. You don't need to show up in a spandex, but something that fits you correctly and is neat and wrinkle free will look best in your photos. I always tell my clients to bring what outfit they'd like to be photographed in and change in the studio. Sure wrinkles can be "Photoshopped" out of your picture but a quick change will ensure that your outfit looks as stunning as you do for your photo session. Also stay away from bold patterns, solid color tops and bottoms will photograph best. If you need a little splash of color, use an accessory to add it in. 

tip 4 - squint, just a little

Tyra Banks is always telling her models to "smile with your eyes". Just a little squint helps to make you look more relaxed and connected with the camera. When you're looking deep into the lens think of someone close to you and picture them not the lens. Try to connect with a feeling or emotion, this will resonate in your final image. 

Tip 5 - Don't look straight into the camera

Tilt your head just a little to the left or the right. Angle your shoulders to one side, and always if you're standing place all of your weight on the leg furthest from the camera. These things will elongate and slim the body while actually looking more natural and relaxed. 

I hope these tips work for you. If they did please let me know by commenting on your experience or if you have a great tip yourself please share it with me. Also you can sign up for the newsletter for more tips, inspirational information and discounts from NDS. Thank you!