Photography 101 - Getting those portraits right, once and for all

From candid to formal, spontaneous to set-up; know how to prepare for your close-up photography

Most of us have been unpleasantly surprised (okay, startled) when we’ve looked at photos of ourselves. Everyone says the camera doesn’t lie, but where did that extra chin come from? Why do my arms look so fat? Is my nose really that long? And when did my knees become so… substantial?It’s enough to make a person terminally camera-shy, which is pretty tricky when another camera may be as near as the closest cell phone. But don’t worry, it’s actually pretty easy to look good on camera–and when you know how to look good, it becomes a lot easier to photograph others so they look good, too. For candid and spontaneous photosFirst, just as with any other photography, think about the light. Portraits benefit from softer, diffuse light, which means that convincing people to move into the shade at your aunt and uncle's pearl wedding anniversary will make for much better photos than in bright sunlight. For a start no one will be squinting, but neither will anyone have shadows cast by their noses on their cheeks. If you suspect that photos might be in the offing, wear clothes that flatter you for the occasion. Cap sleeves and sleeveless tops or dresses won't do much to make you look at your best in a photo. You don’t have to be fat to have odd bulges suddenly appear on your arms.Should you be wearing shorts, put in a special request for a zoom shot that eliminates legs, even if your knees are beautiful under normal circumstances.Don’t stand against a wall, directly facing the camera; you’ll look like you’re about to face a firing squad. The final result will be more flattering if you stand at an angle and position your head as if you’re showing off just one earring (or ear). You can also choose which is your best side and show off that one. 

For the unavoidable full shots, like photos of the wedding party or large groups, avoid the fig leaf position: arms at your sides, with a slight bend that allows you to clasp your hands together in front of you. Instead, stand an angle and bend the arm closest to the camera at the elbow and hold it loosely at your waist. Although it may feel unnatural, the photo will be more flattering. Do photography.