How to Look Good in Photos

The holidays are here, and photos and pictures are on many things to do for couples and families. Cameras will be flashing and camcorders will be lurking around every corner! Moms and dads, teens, uncles, aunts, and grandparents will be on the haunt for that perfect photo opportunity.

Do you like the way you look in the photos that have been taken? Do you think the pictures show the world how you really look? Does your personality shine through on the photos displayed on the mantles or walls of your family?

If you're not exactly happy with the way you look in a photo, there are ways to beef-up the way you want others to see you.

Here's some tips to put your best face forward, pose like a model, to get the best pictures of yourself:

The eyes have it: Learn to focus your eyes on a spot just above the camera lens, project your face a bit forward, and tilt your chin downwards.

Remember to keep your tongue behind your teeth when you smile to get the best relaxed facial expression.

Your arms should be elongated along your sides, but not in a plastic or stiffened posture. Keep the arms a bit away from the body to avoid adding the appearance of extra pounds!

Photos exaggerate everything! So, go easy on the makeup. Mascara and lip gloss is all that's needed for women under 30. If you're over 30, a bit of concealer will do the trick to camouflage those unwanted lines. Remember, makeup is to enhance your natural beauty, so don't layer it on with a butter knife!

Keep your body from looking overly wide. Turn three-fourths of your body towards, one foot in front of the other, and one shoulder should be towards the camera. This is not only flattering, but it is a classic model pose.

If the photo is to be taken with you in a standing position, always suck that belly in, keep the buttocks tight. Don't slouch; instead keep the shoulders back and your spine straight.

If you are uneasy in front of a camera, try closing your eyes and open them slowly just before the picture is to be taken.

Look at photos in which you think you looked your best. Find your best angle. Probably, the best pictures will be of you laughing and having a good time. The best photos are captured when the person is relaxed.

Be aware of what types of patterns are on the clothing you wear. As a rule, try to avoid patterns as they tend to diminish and compete for the beauty of the face.

Harsh light, such as bright sunlight, will accentuate any imperfections or lines on the facial skin. Try to have pictures taken in indirect lighting, under trees, or indoors next to a window.