7 sure fire techniques to look better in photos...instantly

by Thomas Cooke Photography

ABOUT ME: What I do is… make you forget you’re in front of a camera and just BE YOU! Contrary to popular belief, being photogenic is an acquired skill-not an inborn talent reserved only for celebrities.

When it comes to looking good in pictures, the simplest tricks can have the biggest impact. To capture the best version of yourself at the moment the shutter clicks and fell crazy confident in front of the camera, just follow our techniques below and you'll be in a$$ kicking form in no time!

technique #1

Solid Colors, Long Sleeves

Solid colors are almost always a better choice than prints. Wearing one color from top to bottom helps elongate your body which makes a slim-fitting dress and ideal option for photographs. Men, make sure your suits are tailored properly. Sleeves that are too long or pants that haven't been properly hemmed will throw off your whole look. Throw on a statement necklace (or a bold tie) to pull the attention upwards towards your face and you'll be amazed at how great you look!

technique #2

Bend & Snap

If it bends, bend it... Creating movement and depth is one of the best ways to look great in photos. To do this, think about bending your joints-wrists, elbows, knees, ankles. Think in triangles to create more separation from your body and your limbs. Instead of letting your arms fall flat against your sides, create a triangle or hourglass shape. Relax your fingers-as if you're touching your thumb to your middle fingers and snapping.

technique #3

Bring Out Your Best Side

You probably already know what yours is, so make sure you're flaunting it in all the right ways.

You don't want to be photographed straight on since your shoulders are the widest part of your body, but you also definitely don't want to be photographed from the side. A 2/3 turn, slight angle with the focus on your side will always look more flattering in photos.

technique #4

Strike a Pose

Stand up straight and tall, lift your head (imagine a string pulling your body upwards). Then stick your chest forward and pull your belly in then let your shoulders relax. Shift all of your weight to the back leg and let the knee of the opposite leg pop out. Let your arms relax to the side and slightly bend your elbow. The goal is to have some space between your arm & your body. Pay attention to how the stars stand for their photo on the red carpet.

technique #5

Practice makes Perfect

Professional stylists actually work with stars before a big event to see what poses will look the best with their outfit before they walk down the runway. If you know you'll be at an event where you'll be photographed a lot (like a wedding) I suggest you do the same!

Have someone take a few shots of you with an iPhone real quick so you can see just how your outfit photographs. A little practice in the mirror and you'll be "red carpet ready."

technique #6

Confidence is Key

No amount of posing or practice will replace the natural magnetism that comes out to play when you're having fun in front of the camera. Instead of trying to snag the picture-perfect shot or getting tripped up by your camera shyness, just be yourself and those beautiful photos you're looking for will get captured that much easier.

technique #7

Residual Laughter

Moments before the camera clicks, look away from the camera think of something funny and break out into a big laugh (even if its a fake one). Then just as your smile is coming down look back at the camera and voila you'll have the perfect "realistic" smile! Models call it "The Afterglow" ...either way it's a winner.