So in my previous post about mom pics, I gave you the “why”. Now I am going to share a few tips for looking your best. I will add here that of course some of the best photos ops are spontaneous so go with the flow, but don’t forget about those selfies too. They will cherish ALL pictures of you.
Here are 6 tips to help you look your best in those mom pics:
1. The “Oscar pose”
This one is pretty universal and easy for you to envision. Just look at pretty much every red carpet picture. Angle your body about three-quarters of the way toward the camera. The reason for this is that the frontal view is the least flattering. Make sure that you are standing straight with shoulders back. And if you are feeling sassy/cheeky, go ahead and put that hand on your hip for some mom pic attitude!
2. Be a swan
I still remember the girls night when I heard about this one. I tried it and it felt ridiculously awkward, but seriously, it works. Elongate your neck and push your face forward from your forehead with your chin slightly down. (Are you trying it yet? Feels weird, right?)
3. Sit up or Stand down
If you are sitting for the photo, try to make sure that the camera is above you. The act of looking up at the camera basically achieves the “swan pose” if you will.
When standing, the ideal position is camera below. This is especially important if you are doing a full body shot as this elongates the body.
4. Make up
OK, I get it. We are tired moms and we don’t always wear make up. It’s just that features are often washed out in photos so it does help to have some make up on to enhance them. If you are not typically a make-up person, at least do lips and eyes for more flattering mom pics.
5. Light up!
Soft light from a window or the yummy light at sunset are your friend. These will soften your face and avoid those funny tones. Another thing that helps is a white background if you have one. I once made an accidental discovery about one of my bathrooms while wearing an outfit from a friend. I stopped in the bathroom off our back hall to grab a shot to text her. (Mind you this room has no windows but a solar tube for light.) Much to my surprise, I ended up with some amazing photos when I angled the camera just right. Play around in your house and find the best spots, then encourage your kiddos there and get in the shot.
5. “Honey!”
Forget cheese. If you have kids that were taught this, then you know it gives a rotten smile. Turns out the hard “e” sound at the end of the word makes a much nicer smile. You can also put your tongue against the back of your teeth when you smile as this relaxes the face. Obviously the most natural expressions come from genuine laughter so play, have fun and capture a few giggles with your littles.
6. You got this!
As with anything in life, confidence (or lack thereof) shows. That desire to hide or run away from the camera? “Let it go. Let it go.” (Oops, sorry, too much Elsa around here lately.)
What I am saying is that this tip maybe should have been #1 on the list. Be brave and get out from behind the camera. Set it to take a burst so that you have lots to choose from. And most importantly, HAVE FUN!!!
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