Let's explore the best poses for taking your photo when nobody else can hold the camera... (A.K.A the "SELFIE")
As a Wedding Photographer I know how frustrating it can be when you try to take your own selfie but there is a shadow across your cheek, you can see into your own nose or suddenly a double chin appears out of nowhere! If this is you, do not despair because with just a little practice and slight tweaking you too can become a selfie pro!
Here are 3 tips for taking your own selfie:
1. LIGHTING
Good lighting is the key to a great selfie. I am personally a huge fan of natural light due to the soft natural look it gives the photos. If you are taking your selfie outside, make sure the sun is not directly behind you else you will become a dark silhouette. Try to keep your phone between you and the light source to avoid harsh light flares in the lens.
When you take photos inside, try to sit close to a window. This will enable the light to softly lighten your face. (You can also try using a home made reflector by holding a white paper or piece of aluminium foil next to your face or under your chin. You will be amazed at the effect this will have)
The lighting around sunset is also magical, so try to play around with different times of the day until you find the effect you like the most. Jennifer Lopez always puts her phone up, turns around in a circle till she finds the perfect light on her face and then takes her selfie.
2. ANGLE AND HEIGHT OF PHONE
I know that many people have different likes and dislikes regarding this topic, but there are a few key tips that will get you looking smashing without having to take a million photos first.Hashtag your posts
Depending on the effect you want to achieve, the best angle for your phone just above eye level. A good rule of thumb is to have the bottom of your phone in line with your eyes. According to Kim Kardashian, you need to have your "Chin down, phone up and take 300 photos". (Hopefully with a little practice you won't need to take so many photos before you get your perfect shot :-) ) Love to #hashtag? Good news!
You can also try tilting your head slightly, or even turning your body on a slight angle and then turning your head towards the camera for a different perspective. When taking the photo facing the camera directly, try to hold your phone with both hands for extra stability and see how different the effect is.
Unless there is a specific reason for it, don't take the photo from below. This will give you an instant double chin and create the effect of circles and bags under your eyes. And besides...nobody wants to look up your nostrils unless they have a stethoscope around their neck.
3. BE YOURSELF
The worst selfies that I have seen were ones with fake smiles and awkward poses. Always try to be yourself, act natural and do not pout your mouth or pull your face. A clever trick is to breathe in just as you press the shutter button. This will give you a naturally relaxed look and will help you feel less stressed at the same time.
Alternatively just burst out laughing, or work up a good giggle. I know this is easier said than done, but practice makes perfect and laughing good for your health anyway so you might as well try it. :-) If you really struggle, take someone with you that you know will make you feel relaxed and confident.
So to sum this all up: Breathe in...breathe out...turn around till the light is good...arms up, chin down...breathe in and SHOOT!
In a next article we will look at the best apps for your phone to use for filters and basic editing. In the meantime...practice those selfies and keep them coming!