How to take the perfect selfie
You’ve got a new activewear set and you’re ready to show off your outfit. No gym? No worries. Show off those tights with some selfie tips from Sarah-Elyss of @stylenotsize
I must profess, I do not claim to be a professional or even proficient taker of selfie’s. But I do think I have realised a few things that help me feel comfortable and look confident in my snaps! So if that sounds a bit like you, read on!
The 3 L’s of selfie’s (or any photograph) are these…
Light - Think light and bright! The more natural light the better. If your space doesn’t get a lot of natural light, ring lights are so affordable and accessible and can take your pics to the next level!
Look - or don’t look! Your eyes convey a lot to the viewer. Think Tyra Banks ANTM *smise* - aka smile with your eyes - if that’s what you’re trying to convey. I think smiling with your whole face is even better! Where you look, whether it's right at the camera, off into the distance or maybe closing your eyes, all together can help add to the whole mood!
Laugh - Have fun! Try new angles, introduce props or maybe frame your face with your hand or accessories. Selfie’s should be something to enjoy and if you don’t enjoy it - don’t force it! At the end of the day, how you feel should never come from an image of what you think you should look like!
Here are two of my favourite ways to capture a selfie…
The Outfit Selfie
Mirror’s are the perfect no fuss way to capture an outfit and create a “look at me moment” without anyone actually looking at you *nervous laugh*. If you’re like me and want the focus to be on your outfit more than your face, hold your phone (or camera) up in front, or partially in front of your face. That way people see your awesome outfit and if you have a break out or stray hairs that won’t cooperate and you’re not wanting to show off (been there, done that lol), I find the phone works perfectly for covering those unwanted distractions.
Shoot front on with one foot extended in front or to the side to add shape and streamline your body. I find one hand on hip or near my hair adds a nice shape (think S curve to all my fellow art majors) or get creative with floor shots. OR purposely go against traditional ideas of “flattering” and pose however you like! Not every person wants to look cinched in or appear slimmer - and that is totally fine too! You can even introduce props like a chair or bench to give you more options for your poses!
Front Camera Selfie
The classic selfie, it allows you to look at yourself and perfect your snap before committing to a shot. I tend to shy away from these kinds of selfies but on days when I’m feeling particularly chipper or I’m having a good hair day - here are my tips for the perfect “headshot” selfie.
Face the light - angle your head so the light is on your face and highlighting your beautiful features.
Play with shadow - On really bright days, use your hand for shade but also for interest! Shadows can create great lines and give your selfie contrast and a whole new vibe!
Lastly, don’t be afraid to look for inspiration! I am constantly being inspired by pinterest and instagram, taking notes of how other people are photographing their outfits or setting up shots. It may sound silly but sometimes you don’t think something can be done until you see someone else doing it! So take inspiration from your favourite bloggers or celebs - I find looking at people with similar body types as me helps give me ideas on how to “pose” my body or angle my head for the “perfect” shot.
And remember, at the end of the day there is no such thing as perfect! Embrace the imperfections and celebrate the flaws. Sometimes the best shots happen when you least expect! You never know when inspiration will hit!
Yours,
Sarah-Elyss
