Three Reasons Why You Are Not Feeling Photogenic

May 21

May 21 Three Reasons Why You Are Not Feeling Photogenic

We all want only the best photographs of ourselves posted on social media. We all have that friend that absolutely does not care what you look like- the focus is on them. So, you have to make sure you are on point every single time that camera goes up! Here are three reasons why you are not feeling photogenic and a few ways we could help.

Lighting

The majority of photographers will agree; the best type of light for photographs is natural overcast lighting. Direct sunlight can be too harsh; it could also cause awkward face and body shadows. Not enough light could ruin a potentially incredible shot. We cannot control the weather, but there are ways you can make other lighting options work in your favor.

Face the sun for outdoor pictures. If it is bright close your eyes + keep your face toward the sun for five seconds, your eyes will adjust, and you will be able to smile and keep your eyes open naturally without squinting. If you are inside, move as close to a window as possible and try to catch the light from outdoors.
Use a lamp or secondary lighting if you are going for a moody indoor nighttime photograph. The key is to have more light on you so you can edit darker. The quality of a picture diminishes if you try to edit light into an area that was not there before.

Angles

Slim or accentuate a body part by knowing your angels. Lower angels elongate the legs. Slightly higher angles with the lens pointed downward slim and flatter figures. Acknowledge your good side and take photos from that angle. If you want a professional headshot, angle your shoulders 30% toward the side your favor and keep your chin straight to camera. Your frame will appear smaller and less boxy, and you will appear relaxed. If you are capturing full-body, play your angles and let the viewer’s eye dance with the shapes you create.

Body angled, chin to camera.

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Lack of commitment

We hate to break it to you, but it is your fault if you do not like the way you appear in a picture. You can not pose with a half-smile + your back hunched and think it is going to turn into a miraculous snapshot! Commit to your poses by going overboard with exaggeration, so it appears just right as it translates to the camera.

If you want a happy laughing shot, think of a happy moment and literally fake laugh until you feel so silly authentic laughter bubbles up to the surface. Fully commit to the emotion you want to portray. Practice moving in front of the mirror and commit to poses you feel comfortable with until they become second nature.

Feeling photogenic boils down to fully grasping these two concepts A: making the best of your location/surroundings and B: confidence. When you practice and know which way your body looks best, you do not waste time trying to find the perfect shot. So whether you are in front of a white brick wall, or a lush rainforest with exotic animals surrounding you, self-awareness and muscle memory will kick in, and you just hit it. Looking for more ways to elevate your Instagram game? Check out Kick Your Social Media Up A Notch to stay mentally healthy on social media.