How To Be More Photogenic - 10 Easy Hacks

How To Be More Photogenic

A common fallacy in portraiture is that if you’re not naturally photogenic, you’re f..ked.

While it’s true that some of us are just born with eye-watering looks, flawless skin or a strong jawline, those traits are not the only desired prerequisites when achieving a striking picture.

On a photoshoot, professional models need to show up with more than their looks, they need to know how to position their hands, shoulders, body and face correctly in the frame, this is how they make it to our magazine covers.

They study posture, body composition and lighting and anything else that fits the photographer's desired style. The good news for the rest of us is that many of these non-passive skills can be acquired just by paying more attention.

What Makes Someone Photogenic?

Even today's most austere photographers will tell you it’s not just about your natural aesthetic, it’s about how smartly you make sure your features interact with light, your outward demeanour, and the camera's positioning.

Many of these skills require nurture rather than nature.

10 Tips To Be More Photogenic

Here are ten insights into what can make us more photogenic and how to enhance these qualities during a photoshoot.

1. Understand Symmetry

While everyone has a slightly asymmetrical face, some people believe they have a “good side.” This preference often comes from subtle asymmetries in facial features. Experimenting with different angles can help you discover which side you prefer in photos.

2. Use The Rule of Thirds

Photos are generally more appealing when your face is positioned along the “thirds” of the frame. Placing key features like your eyes near these lines creates a balanced and pleasing composition.

3. Use a Skilled Photographer

People with defined bone structures, such as prominent cheekbones often appear more photogenic because light naturally creates flattering shadows and highlights on their faces.

But if you have a great photographer, things like shadows, smart framing and composition can be accentuated and embellished so as to make the subject more photogenic, no matter who they are.

If you’d like some objective feedback from me (a portrait photographer) you can book a personalised photoshoot with me in London.

4. Achieve a Natural Smile

A natural smile involves the whole face, especially the eyes. A smile that engages the muscles around your eyes (known as a Duchenne smile) is perceived as more genuine and photogenic. Thinking of something that genuinely makes you happy can help you achieve this natural expression.

5. Study Head Positioning

There are many techniques that a model will learn to make sure they place their head correctly to exaggerate the best features in the face.

Here’s an example for men: To make your jawline appear stronger and more defined, slightly lower your chin and push it forward. While this may feel unnatural at first, it enhances your jawline and reduces the appearance of a double chin, leading to more flattering photos.

6. Body Language and Confidence

Good posture is key to looking confident and attractive in photos. Ensure your spine is straight, and your shoulders are back. Avoid slouching, as it can create unflattering angles and diminish your presence in the frame.

7. Lighting

Tilting your head or angling your face can change how the light falls on your features, highlighting the most flattering aspects.

Lighting that creates shadows on one side of the face, known as Rembrandt lighting, can enhance features and create a striking portrait.

Before your photoshoot ask your photographer to be mindful of what you consider to be your strongest features in the current light.

8. Micro-Expressions

Small adjustments to your facial expressions can have a significant impact on how your portrait turns out. Instead of exaggerated expressions, try making subtle changes that feel natural. This approach often results in more authentic and appealing photos.

9. Understand Your Features

If you’re unsure about your photogenic qualities, work with an objective photographer to focus on highlighting your strongest features whether it’s your eyes, smile, or hair.

Emphasising your best features can boost your confidence and improve your overall appearance in photos.

10. Consistency and Comfort

Practice Makes Perfect. The more you practise posing, the more comfortable you’ll become, and this comfort often translates into better photos. Spending some time in front of a mirror or taking selfies can help you learn which angles and expressions work best for you.

So how do you tell if you’re photogenic?

Don’t fret. Understanding the factors above can help you feel more confident and prepared the next time you step in front of a camera, regardless of the features you’re born with.

Being photogenic is about highlighting your best features and knowing how to work with light, angles, and expressions to create a great portrait.

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