Whether it’s a quick snap for social media, your professional headshot, or a special occasion portrait photoshoot, we all want to look our best in photos. As a professional photographer based in Cardiff, South Wales, I’ve worked with countless clients, and trust me - looking fantastic in photos isn’t just for models!
With a little preparation and a few insider tricks, you’ll feel confident, natural, and ready for the camera.
Here are my top 10 tips to help you look amazing in every photo:
1. Find Your Best Angle
Did you know most people have a “good side”? It’s not a myth! Spend a moment in front of the mirror or take a few selfies to figure out which side of your face you prefer. Once you’ve found it, work it like a pro during your photoshoot. A slight tilt of the head or turning your body slightly to the side can make all the difference.
2. Stand (or Sit) Tall
Good posture is key to looking polished and confident. Keep your shoulders back and your spine straight but avoid looking stiff. A relaxed posture with a hint of confidence will make you look poised without seeming forced.
Pro tip: If you’re sitting, kneeling, or crouching, don’t let yourself sink down - lift yourself slightly for an elegant silhouette.
3. Use Natural Lighting
Lighting is everything in photography. If you’re outdoors, aim for the golden hour - those magical moments just after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft and flattering. Indoors? Position yourself near a window for natural light to create a beautiful glow.
Avoid harsh midday sunlight unless you’re aiming for squinty eyes and shadow moustaches.
4. Smile with Your Eyes (and Your Heart)
The trick to a great smile? It’s all in the eyes! A forced grin can look awkward, but a natural smile, especially one that engages your eyes, is warm and inviting. Think about something that genuinely makes you happy - or just imagine your favourite dessert waiting for you after the shoot!
5. Keep Your Chin Down (Just a Little)
Nobody wants to see up your nose - sorry, not sorry! By lowering your chin slightly and extending your neck forward a touch, you create a flattering jawline and avoid the dreaded double chin effect.
This small adjustment works wonders - thank me later!
6. Choose the Right Outfit
What you wear can make or break a photo. Stick to outfits that complement your body type and the occasion. Solid colours and subtle patterns are timeless, while busy prints can distract from your face. And remember: confidence is your best accessory, so wear something you love.
Bonus tip: Avoid clothes with large logos or text - they can date your photo or steal the spotlight from you!
7. Relax Your Hands
You might not notice it, but tense hands can make a photo feel awkward. Just shake them out and give your fingers a wiggle if your photographer makes you aware of needing to loosen them up.
With that said, I appreciate that making you aware can make it seem even more difficult to keep them loose and natural! Simply resting them on your lap, touching your hair gently, or letting them hang naturally by your side can help improve a photograph tenfold.
8. Avoid Flat-Facing the Camera
Standing straight on to the camera can sometimes make you look broader than you are. If you feel straight-facing photographs (like the one above) doesn't tend to be the most flattering for you personally, instead try turning slightly to the side and shift your weight onto one foot.
This creates depth and dimension, giving your body a natural and flattering curve.
9. Mind Your Makeup and Grooming
If you’re wearing makeup, keep it slightly bolder than your everyday look to ensure it shows up well on camera. But don’t go overboard - stay true to your style!
For gents, a quick tidy-up of facial hair and a touch of moisturiser can go a long way.
10. Trust Your Photographer
This might be the most important tip of all! A great photographer will gently guide you with poses, angles, and lighting, ensuring you look your best.
My job isn’t just to press a button - it’s to make you feel comfortable and confident so your personality shines through.
My Final Thoughts
Looking amazing in photos isn’t about perfection - it’s about confidence, preparation, and a little bit of practice. Whether you’re booking a professional photoshoot or snapping a quick selfie, these tips will help you feel camera-ready every time.
If you’re in Cardiff or the South Wales area and need a photographer for your next shoot, whether it’s for a special occasion or just to capture the moment, I’d love to help.
Get in touch, and let’s create something amazing together!
Need a Photographer in Cardiff?
Contact me today to book your session! Let’s make sure your next photoshoot captures the real, confident, and amazing you.
