Have you ever been looking at a picture of yourself and wondered, “Am I actually supposed to look like that?” It gives it a purpose and doesn’t leave. So don’t worry — you’re not alone! People feel anxious about the way they look 77% of the time—and the growth of social media has made it much worse. But here’s the good news: How to Look Good in Pictures isn’t just about having the “perfect” face—it’s an art, and anyone can learn it with a little practice.
Today, I’m diving into 22 tried and true tips that will help you look your picture best in photos. Regardless if you are taking selfies, getting in the group shot, or preparing for professional headshots, with these tips you’ll be camera ready in no time. So you’re ready to be the most photogenic version of yourself? Let’s get started!
1. Find Your Best Angle
Most people have a “good side.” Wake Forest University has even done a study that says ‘the left side of your face is perceived as more attractive because it displays more emotion.’ Play around with angles in front of the mirror, or on your phone camera to see what works for you.
2. Stand Tall and Confident
And good posture can change your photos. Having your shoulders back standing tall does not only exude confidence, it actually makes you look better! In photos, people with a good posture are 25 percent more likely to be seen as attractive.
3. Look Smile Naturally (or Not at All!)
So keep it natural—the forced smiles are easy to spot. Sure, think of something funny or laugh (real or imaginary) right before the photo is taken. Fun fact: According to University of California research, smiling can make you seem 10 percent likelier in photos.
4. The Power of Lighting
Great photography is never the product of luck, and lighting is the unsung hero. Natural light takes great photos by 50% according to professional photographers, especially during golden hours (early morning or late afternoon). Don’t use harsh overhead lighting; it fills the room with unflattering shadows and is a great idea to avoid when you can.
5. Choose the Right Outfit
You wear your clothes in a photo. Did you know that 40% of people feel more photogenic wearing their favorite color? There is no need to risk making yourself look too grown up with complex patterns or solid colors, so you’ll want solid colors and simple patterns. Don’t use neon colors, big bold fonts, or over-the-top designs.
6. Learn About the ‘Chin Forward’ Trick
If you don’t already have a double chin (and maybe you don’t), push your chin slightly forward and down to avoid it. It shapes your jawline and gives you definition in your face. A fun fact? This trick is a lot of celebrities’ favorites for red carpet photos.
7. Pay Attention to Your Eyes
Most pictures are about your eyes. To avoid the ‘bug-eyed’ look, try and practice relaxing them. That smoldering, confident look comes from little more than a slight squint. Thanks to research, we know that images with a lot of direct eye contact can increase engagement by up to 60%.
8. Watch Your Hands
Awkward hands can spoil an otherwise good shot. You can gently place them on your hips, down by your sides, or cross your arms. Posing with your hands actually increases the natural feel of a photo by 30%, according to photography experts.
9. Work With Your Photographer (Even if It’s You!)
If you’re being photographed, tell the person taking your picture what you’re trying to capture. Are you looking for casual and fun or professional and elegant? If you are snapping selfies, don’t be afraid to take repeated shots — it’s common for people to shoot 7 selfies before publishing only 1.
10. Practice Your Pose
Even in photography, practice makes perfect. Test different poses before your next big photo op in front of the mirror or camera. Pro tip: Most importantly, it’s often 35% more flattering to slightly turn your body to the side rather than standing in a straight-on position.
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11. Use Photo-Friendly Makeup
If you wear makeup, take a little time to invest in photo-friendly products. Opt for matte finishes and blend well to avoid shiny finishes. Highlight your cheekbones and the inner corners of your eyes. After the selfie boom, photogenic makeup sales increased by 20%.
12. Don’t Overthink It
Sometimes trying too hard will actually make you look stiff or unnatural. Relax, have fun, and let your personality shine—this is the secret sauce to a great picture.
13. Avoid Direct Flash
Harsh shadows and a washed-out look are the downsides of flash. In low-light settings, try to use the flashlight from a phone or bounce the light off a nearby wall for a softer effect. Fun fact: One of the biggest reasons 50% of people hate their photos is overexposure.
14. Mind Your Background
A busy background can steal attention away from you. Whenever possible, choose simple, clean, and complementary settings. Using neutral backgrounds increases photo engagement on social media by 40%.
15. Keep Your Hair in Check
Flyaways or frizz can ruin an otherwise polished photo. Keep a small comb or anti-frizz serum on hand to tame rebellious strands.
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16. Add Movement
Static poses can look dull. Add some life to photos by flipping your hair, twirling, or walking toward the camera to capture a candid, dynamic vibe. Candid shots are 20% more engaging on social media.
17. Use Props
Props can be fun and give you something to do while posing. Whether it’s a hat, sunglasses, or your favorite cup of coffee, they can make or break your photo.
18. Filters: Don’t Go Overboard
Filters can improve your photos, but it’s easy to go too far. Most of the time, a simple adjustment to brightness, contrast, or saturation is enough. Fun fact: 90% of Instagram users edit their photos before posting.
19. Hydrate and Rest
Tired eyes and dull skin don’t make for great photos. Drink plenty of water and aim for a good night’s sleep before a photoshoot. Photos can make you appear up to 5 years older if you’re dehydrated.
20. The Rule of Thirds
Use your phone’s grid feature to align your face or body with one of the grid lines. This creates a more well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing photo.
21. Be Aware of Camera Lens Distortion
Wide-angle lenses can distort features, making your nose look bigger or your face stretched. For the most flattering shots, stick to standard or portrait lenses.
22. Have Fun!
Finally, the best pictures come when you’re enjoying yourself. Don’t take it too seriously; look confident and have fun!
Picture Perfect
Prepping, practicing, and a dash of confidence are all it takes to look good in pictures—it’s not about perfection. Whether your dream is to be Instagram-famous or to stop untagging yourself in group photos, these 22 tips are your roadmap to photogenic success.
The next time someone says, “Say cheese,” you’ll know exactly what to do. Now go out there and strike a pose.
Bonus Fact: 93 million selfies are taken worldwide daily, and the average person spends 7 minutes editing one photo before posting. With these tips, you’ll need a lot less time to look amazing!