In a world where our every waking moment could be documented on Facebook, Twitter and various cell phones, you have to be camera-ready at all times. We all know our appearance isn’t all that matters – but it sure does count for something! Here’s a few things to look good on camera:
Clear the shine
While a subtle glow is always flattering, no one wants to look greasy. Ever stumbled across a picture where you can’t tell if it’s a portrait of a wax figurine or real person? Our hearts go out to those glazed faces. Keeping this in mind, it’s clear makeup can either be our best friend or unfaithful foe when hit by an overload of flashes. To reduce facial shine and give your skin a matte finish, opt for an oil-free foundation that matches your skin tone (Pst – try Lancome Photogenic Foundation). A little lip gloss and rosy cheeks never hurt anyone, either – as long as it remains subtle.
Let your locks fall
It’s time to untie that elastic band, and allow your locks to flow freely. When you let your hair fall, it outlines your features and provides your face with a more structured appearance. Our facial attributes are especially highlighted when our ears remain covered. While we may think tucking our hair behind our ears looks more attractive, when the flash strikes, it will only cause them to stick out (and not in a good way!). For those of us with shorter hair, just add more volume to your do instead.
Appear slim
Ever heard the phrase, you caught me on my bad side ? Well, turns out, this is where the saying originates. You can actually trick a camera into making you look slimmer, depending on your stance. The quintessential model’s pose is to position your body three-quarters toward the camera, while placing one foot in front of the other and one shoulder closer to the camera. If you’re sitting, angle to one side and subtlety lean in toward the photographer. This will add appeal and dimension to the photo. Now who says a camera adds ten pounds?
Paint on the colour
Much like the makeup we apply on our face, we should also be selective when it comes to our wardrobe. Depending on the colour, shades like black or white will only fade us into the background (literally!). With that being said, scope out bold tones that complement your skin tone and hair colour (a paler complexion with a light hair tint will usually thrive in blue). Be sure to avoid patterns at all costs! Stripes will only add bulk to your build.
Utilize those accessories
Don’t just be bold with the colour of your outfit, but make a statement with your adornments. Opt for chunky, bold pieces that complement your attire. While accessories can enhance your look, they can also overwhelm. Don’t think that in order to stand out you need to dress yourself in copious amounts of jewelry. Select one timeless piece, and you will be sure to stand out above the rest.
Dim the lighting
While this may sound strange at first, as if you’re preparing for a romantic candle lit dinner; not a photo shoot, just think: When lighting hits you from above, it creates shadows on your face. Ever wonder why most beach snapshots seldom turn out as breathtakingly as we had hoped? In order to avoid this dreary shadow, stand behind the sun or away from any direct lighting. Illumination is most flattering when it strikes you from the side, and will create luster to your look.
1-2-3 Relax.
While keeping the above in mind, perhaps the most important quality to remember when in front of a camera is to maintain composure. One too many of us end up looking awkward in pictures because, well, we over-think: how should I smile? Is my hair sticking out? Is something stuck in my teeth? While nine times of ten we’re just being paranoid, getting nervous only makes things worse. So relax, take a deep breathe, and flaunt those pearly whites for all to admire. And besides, even if you have a remnant of lettuce stuck in your teeth, you may look so naturally flawless that no one else will care to notice.
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