Looking good in pictures

THE season of weddings, communions, confirmations and so on is upon us. The cameras are flashing, with family and group photos an important part of the day. I know for myself that taking a good picture is a rare event as I always seem to panic when I hear those dreaded words “Say Cheese”.
Being photogenic is not just about having strong cheek bones or a great complexion, rather it is about your approach and knowing how to relax when the camera starts flashing. There are some pointers I can give which, when put into practice, will transform your image.
When you are going to an event where you know the cameras are going to be flashing and family portraits are commonplace, bear in mind that what you are wearing will impact on your overall appearance on camera. Fabrics with stripes are tricky on film. Heavy horizontal stripes will make your body look wider than normal on camera. Very-closely-spaced stripes or patterns can create weird effects in digital photography and photographic processes such as printing. Brightly coloured garments can overpower your natural appearance in daylight, while working much better for evening or indoor shots. Neutrals and solid shades which enhance your own natural complexion are best but be careful when wearing a single tone as it can cause you to blend together and appear bland and undefined.
Always listen to the guidance given by a professional photographer. Taking photographs is their business. They will make you feel relaxed and know all the tricks of the trade. When you feel self-conscious, you will automatically look uptight when you are standing in front of a camera, so try to think of a happy thought, not a funny joke but rather something that makes you smile. Before the camera starts flashing, take a deep breath then breathe out slowly as the camera gets to work. Never hold your breath as then you will look uptight on film. Facial expressions are highlighted so try to refrain from the making a funny face. No matter what is going on around you, remember that the image will be captured for all time and will probably be on view in the family home. Don’t over-exaggerate your smile. Try not to show too much gum line when you are smiling and be careful of the bottom lip line that it’s not pulled down too much emphasising a cheesy, grim appearance. If you prefer to smile with your mouth closed be careful not to clench your lower jaw.
In order to prevent that dreaded red eye or blinking, it’s advisable to look slightly above the camera, never directly at the lens. For facial close-up shots, use eye drops as this will help to open the pupils and give the eye a brighter look. Practice your smile in the mirror to find out which is your most appealing look and also to determine your best angles.  By raising your eyebrows very slightly and tilting the head slightly forward you will see a difference, also angle your body slightly with one foot crossed in front of the other when seated for a more streamline shot. When you are standing upright, good posture is foremost. Balance your weight on the back leg, while tilting shoulders slightly forward and holding in the tummy muscles. Never look downwards at a camera as this will almost definitely give you a double chin.
For ladies, make-up and hair play a big role in the overall appearance so again, always check lip and eye colours. Remember iridescent or sparkly eye shadow will appear more obvious as it catches the light from the camera flash. The same is true if you don’t use face powder, especially on the more oily parts of the face like the T-zone. Use concealer or foundation to even skin tone and fade out redness as this too can be emphasised by the camera lenses. Check your hair is in place, especially for outdoor shots. On a windy day, long hair will look its best loosely tucked behind the ears or held with an invisible hair clip.
With a little practice it won’t be long before you will automatically take a better picture when you hear the two little words “Say Cheese”.
I want to bring your attention to fabulous occasion wear. Whether you want to strike a pose or just put your best foot forward for an event this month, you have to visit Willow on O’Connell Street in Ennis. With such a varied collection of stunning dresses, jackets and, of course, must have separates and accessories, you will not leave disappointed. I particularly love this Ted Baker summer dress (pictured). It is bang on trend with its delicate colours and 3D floral print which will suit most complexions.