1) Good lighting.
People talk a lot about good lighting – but what makes lighting good? This refers to the amount of light and the positioning of light. First of all, a lot of light will make a clearer brighter picture, and, even better – a softer light that is perhaps diffused by clouds or by being indoors, can be more flattering. The positioning of light is immensely important. Light coming from directly below or above your head always looks harsh and unflattering. Make sure your light source is coming from in front or slightly above. If in doubt, always face towards the light, or have the light coming towards you at a 40º angle. I’ll say it again – if in doubt, face towards the light – and always keep your eyes on the camera lens. If this is all too confusing, yet you want to ensure you have a beautifully lit portrait of yourself, book a portrait with us.
2) Great posture.
Posture makes for 60 per cent of a great portrait. Great posture makes you look in command and authoritative. For excellent posture, imagine an invisible string pulling your spine up, keeping your shoulders back and relaxed, and chin slightly down or level with the floor. During a portrait session with us, we will guide you, making sure your posture is the best it can be.
3) Consider your background.
Think classic. I’d always recommend either a clean and clear background or outside with a natural, professional or simple environment behind you.
4) Wear a different colour from your background.
It goes without saying – who wants to blend into the background?
5) Think of someone you love.
Smiling naturally on command – for most of us, this feels awkward and difficult. However, if I asked you to think of someone you love – you will naturally smile. Moreover, you will feel more relaxed and look warmer. This always makes for a better and more trustworthy picture of you.
6) Smile with your eyes.
I wouldn’t recommend a thousand-watt smile unless it feels natural to you. A gentle smile is often more welcoming. However, if you don’t want to smile, but still want to have a warmth and trusted look to your portrait, try smiling with your eyes: narrow your eyes slightly as if you were going to smile (whilst thinking of someone you love).
7) Get help.
If you have an extra pair of hands around, get them to help you hold the camera. A photograph of you will always look more professional when your arms are by your side and your shoulders are back and relaxed. This is an advantage of having your portrait taken professionally by us. Click here to book.
8) If you own a camera, use it.
Mobile phone cameras are getting better and better, but as a photographer, I still think the quality of a digital camera is far higher. Smartphone images can look pixelated, a little less crisp, and the lens can warp the image slightly. If you only have a smartphone to hand, make sure you take the picture in a place with lots of light.
9) Give yourself a break.
Maybe you feel awkward that day and can’t get the perfect shot. Sometimes you need to move around to find a spot with better light, and other times you might just need to give up and try again tomorrow. Ninety-nine (point-nine) per cent of the world are not supermodels, and probably feel awkward having their picture taken at first. You’re not alone, so don’t give yourself a hard time if it doesn’t work out the first time. It’s important to remember that we all possess a charm that extends far beyond how we look. Though, it does help to have an expert taking your portrait, guiding you through the process. For extra help, and for an uber clean and professional portrait, press the button below to have your portrait taken by us.
