Say Cheese! How to Look Picture Perfect in 5 Simple Steps

You may not be a professional model, but you still want to come out looking hot in your photos right?

I thought so.

Here are some tips on how to look like a seasoned pro in all your shots whether they are for facebook, a dating website, a family album, or anything else you can think of.

And please, have someone else take the photo for you–none of this “arms-length Myspace style self-portrait” business. I beg you. And no bathroom mirror reflection snapshots either. Resist the urge! 😉

Moving on to tip #1…

1. Lighting makes a difference.

Yessir! It really does. Any decent photographer can tell you that.

First of all, it’s more flattering to not use flash, so make sure there is enough natural light. Cloudy days are especially great for portrait shots because the light is diffused (spread evenly) and you don’t get any of those harsh shadows caused by direct sunlight.

But, if the sun is out, make sure that it’s in front of you, and not behind you. Backlighting can make you come out dark or faded in photos. Sunlight is also best either in the early morning or in the late afternoon. Avoid noon by all costs–that’s when the light is at it’s worst.

Backlighting can make your hair look frizzy instead of cute.