6 Top Tips for Taking Selfies

by Crissi Palmer from Captured by Crissi

It’s a well-known fact that people buy from people. As a business, you are your company and it has become increasingly important to be present and ‘seen’ on social media. I’ve put together my top tips to help you get the most from your selfies!

1. Lighting

Lighting is a photographer’s best friend; it can make or break a photo. Contrary to belief, direct sunlight does not necessarily mean a good photo – it can be harsh and create unflattering shadows, so think carefully about the direction of the sun. An overcast day, however, is ideal. The clouds act as a buffer, creating a soft and even light.
A few things to consider when taking your photo:
– natural light is always more flattering the artificial.
– if indoors, face towards a window or door and make the most of that natural light.
– if outdoors on a sunny day, look for shadows – either stand in one for the photo or experiment with directions and see how the light/shadows play on your face.

2. Smile like you mean it!

Most people can tell a real smile from a forced one. This can be a little tricky, as we don’t all like getting in front of the camera, but a good way of getting used to this is to practise in a mirror. You might feel a little silly to start with, but it will soon have you laughing. Watch out for those micro movements and see how your face moves.

3. Play with angles.

First of all, have your camera slightly raised – hold the phone so the bottom of it is level with your eyes and you have to look up towards the camera, this will open your eyes more and combat that sleepy eyed looked/make them look bigger. Secondly, don’t be afraid to take multiple selfies and experiment with the angle/tilt of your head or changing your expression. This is a great way to get your personality across.

4. Focus.

Make sure the camera is focused where you want it – eyes are usually the best bet. Don’t forget to look down the lens – not at the screen.

5. Background.

Take note of what is behind you – you don’t want anything too distracting/messy. If possible, aim for simple or interesting.

6. Don’t overthink it.

I know how silly that sounds after the list above, but you’ll get into the swing of it pretty quickly! Don’t put any pressure on yourself and try to have fun with it. If they aren’t quite ticking the box, put the phone down and try again later.

Remember that we are our own worst critics, your followers will love any selfies that you share.

Crissi is a wedding, family and business headshot photographer based on the south coast and you can find out more her and her work on her website.

Photo by Mateus Campos Felipe on Unsplash