8 Easy Tips for How to Pose for Pictures

When posing for a photo, push your chin and head slightly forward. It feels kind of unnatural, but on film it does wonders for making your face look thinner and getting rid of any hint of a double chin.

Again, a slight push forward. This will emphasize your collarbone and make your arms look thinner. Good posture also makes you look more polished and elegant, which is never a bad thing.

Put your tongue on the roof of your mouth just behind your teeth when smiling for a pic. The resulting expression is way more relaxed than maniacal.

Turn your body. Instead of facing the camera head on, pivot slightly, planting one foot in front of the other. Point your toe toward the camera and put your weight on your back foot.

Group photos present a conundrum. Everyone wants to look good, so no one wants to be on the ends of the photo (where you typically look the largest). We’re not advocating bodychecking your way into the middle (where you’ll look narrower), but we’re also not advocating not.

No matter what you do with your arms, don’t press them into your body. Either place your hands on your hips or hold them slightly away from the sides of your body.

We’re not above shameless mirror selfies if it means looking amazing when a real photo happens. Find your best pose, stick to it and don’t let anyone make fun of you for always doing the same thing. (Just look at Victoria Beckham.)

There’s a reason Instagram filters exist--they are your friends. The right filter choice can take a mediocre photo to the next level. “Whoa, is that Gisele Bündchen?” your friend asks. “Nope, just me in ‘rise.’” Consult this handy guide before posting your next snap.