Every time I open up Instagram, I see a perfectly positioned model or influencer showing off their outfit. Without fail, I assume the seemingly perfect photo was effortless to capture. I always take it for granted that the person in the photo is naturally photogenic (and that if I’m not naturally photogenic, I’d never been able to pull off the same photo). But guess what: That couldn’t be further from the truth. Anyone who frequently has their photo taken just knows what works for them, mostly from trial and error.
For Instagram’s director of fashion partnerships, Eva Chen, it’s her baby giraffe pose, while the Barbie feet pose is a favorite among celebs and models everywhere. It’s no big secret how to produce an amazing outfit photo; it just comes down to knowing your angles.
Everyone has a different angle that works best for them, but try the following tips and you’ll realize that the perfect outfit photo is just a matter of strategy. From paying attention to camera angles to strategically positioning your body, we’re sharing our top tricks to never worrying about how to look more photogenic again. If you’re ready to up your Instagram game, look no further.
Avoid a Low Angle
Lower angles, while sometimes a cool option, are typically harder to execute well. Position your camera slightly above your eye line. Generally speaking, the higher the camera angle, the better the photo.
Put Your Hand on Your Hip
Any time your arm is slightly away from the rest of your body, it adds interest to the pose.
Sit Up or Stand Up Straight
Paying attention to your posture when taking pictures can make the world of a difference. Hunched shoulders and slumped spines will not elongate your figure. Instead, push your shoulders back stick your back end out slightly. It might seem silly to dramatize good posture, but we promise it will come across well on camera.
Avoid Bulky Clothing
Obviously, you should wear whatever you like and show off your unique style in photos, but bulky clothing tends to distract from the best part of the photo: you! Lightweight, thin fabrics, like silk, are great options for photos.
Slightly Twist Your Body to the Side
Again, posing in a unique way adds interest to the photo. Fully to the side or even at an angle both work.
Wear Dark Clothing
You don’t have to wear bright colors to make your photo stand out. Case in point: Chrissy Rutherford’s dark-wash denim jumpsuit and black booties.
Add a Filter
Going for a darker Instagram filter, like X-Pro II or Mayfair, and adjusting the exposure and light filters can make for a more photogenic image.
Keep Your Chin Up and Out
This trick will elongate your neck and help to avoid any unflattering chin angles.
Pull Your Shoulders Back
Not only will this accentuate your collarbone, but it will also make you look more polished and put-together (if that’s what you’re going for).
Don’t Tightly Press Your Arms to Your Body
Keep your arms slightly away from your body for a better shot. Either put your hand on your hip, brush your hand through your hair, or try keeping your elbow slightly out.
Experiment With Selfies to Find Your Best Angle
No shame here—it’s all about finding what looks best for you. A little trial and error will help you find your best angle in photos so you know exactly how to stand to create the best image.
Shop the photogenic wardrobe essentials our editors are loving right now from Fashion Nova:
Leandra Ruched Mini Dress – Lavender, $59.99 USD
You really can’t go wrong with a dress.
Painting Pictures PU Leather Skirtall – Black, $24.99 USD
This skirt is the perfect length.
Charge It Rhinestone Blazer – Black, $69.99 USD
The word “hourglass” is what describes this stylish blazer. Need we say more?
It’s On Deck Bodysuit – Black, $29.99 USD
Square necklines are basically a frame for your collarbones.
Ciao Bella Crossbody Bag – Black, $24.99 USD $16.98 USD
This will make wearing black feel anything but boring.
On My Side Midi Dress – Burgundy, $54.99 USD
Try any silhouette that’s belted to highlight your figure.
Victoria High Waisted Dress Pant- Pinstripe – Black/White, $34.99 USD
Vertical stripes are pretty much guaranteed to garner likes.
Party For Two Contrast Jeans – Black/Blue, $49.99 USD
Always invest in black jeans.
Vivi Maxi Wrap Dress – Mauve, $39.99 USD
There’s a reason wrap dresses have been a classic for decades now—they look so darn good on everyone.
Two Of A Kind Layered Jacket – Medium Blue Wash, $34.99 USD
A cropped jacket is so versatile.
Essential Faux Leather Moto Jacket – Tan, $39.99 USD $31.99 USD
Again with the belt.
Wine And Dine Velvet Corset Top – Black, $19.99 USD
Throw this on with jeans and sandals in the warmer months, and layer with a blazer in the colder seasons.
Comment below if you would enjoy a Try-On Haul and with what brand! ( Tag them)
Feature Photo: @Saweetie
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