Spring party season means fun frocks, fruity cocktails and ubiquitous flashbulbs.
So often, we freeze up in front of the camera, so our fabulousness is hidden behind a stiff smile or uncomfortable stance.
But now you can get ready for your close-up, because our tips will have you striking a pose like a pro.
Find your stance
The way you stand and angle your body can create a slimming effect. Professional photographer Naomi Epstein says, “People look thinner from the side, so slightly turn your body as though you’re standing up to bat. Shift your weight slightly so your back foot holds most of your weight. It feels and looks more natural than standing with full weight on both legs.”
Rather than placing your hand directly on your hip, rest your hand lightly on your outer upper thigh and let your elbow move slightly away from your waist, creating space between your arm and your body. It will look less obvious than the overused “hand directly on hip” pose.
Finally, relax. “My number one rule about posing is if you feel strange, you’ll look strange,” says Epstein.
Find your natural smile
Forcing a smile never leads to a good photo. Right before being photographed, turn away for a second and then look back at the camera for the shot.
Ask your photographer to take one shot and then take another shot immediately after. It’s likely that second photo will be better.
Don’t say cheese. You’ll end up with a tense looking smile. Instead, think a happy thought. While this may sound hokey, it works.
Child’s photo
If you’re taking your child to be photographed, as hard as it may be, give them some space during the session. When parents start directing the photo shoot, kids seek reassurance and tend to tense up or give plastic grins.
Epstein recommends having the photographer snap pictures of your child playing with a favorite toy or running around, so she can capture your tyke smiling and laughing. These “in the moment” shots often end up being favorites over posed photos.
Family photo
Epstein suggests choosing an outdoor location in nature, so everyone can relax. In terms of what to wear, avoid the matching uniforms look. Instead, find four colors that your family loves and translate those colors into your family’s wardrobe picks.
Family portraits shine when the family looks connected, says Epstein. To do this, have family members stand overlapping, with a hand on someone’s shoulder or faces close together.
