5 Ways to Look Your Best in a Photo

Everybody loves the camera, right?. Wrong! How many times have you cringed when the film was developed, wondering, "do I really look like that?". The answer is, no, you don't. The camera can be friend or foe, but with a little understanding of the photographic outcome, you can ensure that you will look your best every time.

Choosing the right make-up, clothing and hairstyles are a given. We all know that's important. But here are some key factors that you can take charge of whenever a camera is whipped out. Sometimes, you have the advantage of advanced planning, such as birthdays, holidays, etc. Whether it's a planned event or a surprise snap from a friend, here's what to do for a flawless you. And don't worry about bothering the camera person. If you're in that picture, it's a permanent record of you. It's in your best interest to insist on getting it right.

1.Keep the camera high. This is best achieved by keeping the camera person off his or her knees. This is a popular position, especially with group shots, but I say, have no part in that. When the lens drops below your face, it will cause flaws to be exposed and shadows to form under your eyes. Any loose or wrinkled skin will come to life in your photographic record. By keeping the lens at eye level, your skin will appear tighter and smoother, and will mask any fatty deposits under the chin. If the cameraman kneels, you kneel with him.

2.The one second miracle facelift is for those with sagging skin or a little too chubby in the face. Try having your photo taken while sitting down and the camera person standing head -on in front of you. By looking up and tilting your head backward, gravity will pull what needs to be tightened, giving you a firm and youthful appearance. This technique is comfortable and looks natural when seated at a dinner table.

3.Direct lighting has ruined many a family photo for one main reason: the light did not strike your face evenly. Too often, photos are snapped on a sofa with one sided window lighting illuminating only one side of the face. This spells disaster. By moving to an area where window or indoor lighting hits your face directly, your photo will achieve an even glow of light, keeping your features free of unsightly shadows.

4.Powder blotting is a must. Professional models have a blotter ready at the first sight of moisture, especially in the creases around the cheeks and nose. The slightest bit of sweat will cause the creases to appear deeper and more pronounced. To ensure a more youthful you, have a compact ready for a quick swipe to dry your face. It takes only a few seconds and you'll be glad you did.

5.Eliminate salt and sodium from your diet. Unless you're on a salt-free lifestyle, this trick will only work with
planned events. By eliminating salt and sodium- loaded processed foods, and drinking eight glasses of water to flush away the toxins, your skin will glow with radiant health. The longer you detox, the better the results. Be aware that even a small bag of potato chips can make your face puffy, and the camera will magnify the damage. Beginning this practice early will yield the best results, as your skin needs time to regenerate overnight. The detox must begin no later than one day before your event.