Most of the time when we see a star strutting his or her stuff on the red carpet, we don't think about what they did to look so good for that close up. We only acknowledge the ravishing or polished results, but there are techniques even we "mere mortals" can employ to look our best the next time we strike a pose for a professional portrait or family photo.
Instructions
1. Research photographers in your area. Ask friends and family members who they recommend. You should always ask whether or not this person made them feel at ease. If you feel at ease, your likeness will show it. Also, ask to see samples of the individual's work, or search for it online at a business or personal website or online portfolio.
2. Position your body at an angle, so you are not looking directly at the camera or artist. This will diminish poor posture and add a great dimension to the composition of the body.
3. Jut your head out a little to minimize a double chin. Consciously move your chin forward a bit to reduce the look of excess fat or skin.
4. Keep your arms away from your sides. There is a reason why you consistently see stars with their hands placed firmly on their hips -- away from the body. Arms held tight against the body flatten out, causing the arm to look bulkier.
5. For a full-length portrait, stand with your one leg somewhat in front of the other. This helps to slim a heavier lower half or pear-shaped figure, and also creates an aesthetically-pleasing curve to the body.
6. Let your hands fall naturally. If you rest your hand on your chin without too much thought, the pose will appear natural instead of "senior portrait: circa 1985."
7. Relax and smile! Tension is easy to read on the face. Also, stress can appear hightened by the camera lens.
