Capture a great head shot that you will WANT to post on Facebook
I am definitely better behind the camera, then in front of it. If I have to take a picture I’ll often focus on body elements instead of head shots.
I’ll admit it – I can find something wrong with just about every photo that was taken of me. My arms will look too big, my head is crocked, I’m not smiling, I’m smiling too much… etc. I am my worst critique.
So when it comes to profile pictures, I struggle to find one of myself that really exemplifies my real personality. In fact I often give up and just use one of the kids as a profile picture – after all they are a part of me and 100 times more photogenic.
While I’m still struggling to find the perfect shot of myself, I thought I would share some great tips from Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel.
Facebook Photo Tip to Capture your Best Side
- Women should slightly look up towards the camera as it will make your eyes larger, and raise your eyebrows creating the attractive look of large eyes.
- Men should slightly protrude your chin. This creates a strong face and eliminates a double chin.
- For men and women, slightly move your chin towards the camera.
- For Women – a minute before your photo, tap on your lips a few times (somewhat stronger than you’d think!). This will send blood to your lips making them redder and fuller – both considered very attractive. Similarly, you can pinch your cheeks a few times to get a little bit of a rosy glow.
- Stand at an angle to the camera. This creates a slimmer body profile, and adds some interest to the photograph. Also, try slightly lowering the shoulder towards the camera. This will relatively elongate your neck and slim it out.
- Blink just before the camera goes off. That is, if they are counting to three to shoot, blink deliberately on two. This will help guarantee that your eyes are not closed during the picture, and importantly, will get you with the most open and bright eyes – and remember, bright eyes are critical to looking good.
- Smile with your eyes! A fake smile is just your mouth. A true smile is when your whole face is laughing. Think about sending energy to your eyes or smiling with your eyes, and your beauty will shine into the photograph.
- Be relaxed. Think about relaxing your face and trying to convey that to the camera.
Dr. Jeffery Spiegal, world-renowned plastic surgeon and professor at Boston University of Medicine provided this tips so everyone can “put their best face forward!” Dr. Jeffrey Spiegel is Chief of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and a professor at theBoston University School of Medicine with appointments in the Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
He has published numerous articles and book chapters on head and neck oncology and facial plastic surgery, and speaks nationally on these topics. His research efforts were recognized with the Sir Harold Delf Gillies research award by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Do you have any tips for capturing that great Facebook photo?