You are rocking that great outfit and you want to share it with your thousands of followers or just your closest friends. It’s time for that awesome selfie, but yours never seems to turn out the way you imagine. Why? It could be the quality of your camera. Check the reviews and the manual for the device you are using. Understanding the mechanics is important, however, taking great photos requires more than a great camera and a nice smile. These tips will help you up your selfie-style.
1. Lighting - The harsh light of a flash can illuminate all shadows and flatten the subject in the image. Experiment with natural light, keeping the camera between you and the light source. Avoid the dreaded under-eye circles by staying away from overhead lights.
2. Angles - Our faces are rarely symmetrical and very few people are at their best staring straight into the camera. Take a set of images from different vertical and horizontal heights. Don’t be discouraged if you aren’t thrilled with some of them, that is the point. Find what angles work better for you and stick with them.
3. Look Up – The things that are closest to the camera lens are the largest in the image. Holding the camera slightly above you is a great way to place the focus on your eyes and smile. Speaking of eyes, while you can look directly into the camera, looking off-camera can produce a more natural feeling.
4. Simple Backgrounds – Keep the clutter behind you to a minimum. If you are in a busy location, look for open walls or areas with fewer distractions. If you want that great farmer’s market behind you, try to stand farther away from the background so it isn’t as clear in the image.
5. Presentation – Mom was right, posture is key, no slumping. Also, check to make sure your clothing and hair are neat and in order. Avoid the frustration of finally getting just the look you want in that perfect photo only to notice the stain on your lapel. Use a mirror before you use the camera.
Want more selfie tips and other great information? Check out jeantermanphotography.com/infocus and get clicking.
