The FastDay Forum

I got a friend whose a pro to take lots of pics of me recently - I like myself in 50% of them which isn't bad. I tried all permutations - looking towards/away from camera, mouth open/closed head tipped up/down. I can't draw any firm conclusions, but the more you take, the more likely to get a good one (even if you die of boredom in the process) . And I did makeup/hair/favorite outfit to prepare for the pics, but I have other spontaneous pics I like equally as much.

Agree with kentishlass - a well known actress (and writer, who appeared at one of our author events) once explained how to do it, at a press call. Face away from the camera with a neutral expression, get the photographer to say 'and ... now', your cue to turn slowly to face the camera, and smile. Keeps the expression, and the smile, natural and unforced. She is now mid 60s and always takes a very natural photograph.

I am with you Penny not comfy in front of camera and what's more don't like my smile. End result often unhappy with results. Take lots of photos and pick the ones you like. You are brave and also you beauty shines through in your posts anyway

I used to hate having my photo taken and have hundreds of them where I'm turning away, grimacing etc. One day, my eldest daughter told me that if someone was going to take a photo you might as well try to look as good as you could! Since then I try to smile, look into the camera, put my shoulders back, stomach in and turn three quarters on to the camera (makes wide hips look narrower!) Sometimes now, I get a photo which is halfway decent and at least it isn't of my back!
Sorry, this probably doesn't help you much, @PennyForthem, but it has helped me! I look forward to seeing your photos, very soon! V.

@Izzy as usual what you say just hits the nail, wherever a nail should be battered, but if you met the lovely Penny you would agree that she deserves a better photograph. I know... I know....it's all superficial and her wonderful personality and mega sharp brain and wit do indeed show through on the forum it's just that I'd like everyone else to see the real her because 'she's worth it'! That said, I'd hate her to be uncomfortable but I'm still going to nag her......sorry, Penny xx

Ballerina x

Actually @PennyForThem I hate having my photo taken too ( just not photogenic). I recently posted pictures of my new hair. I did this myself and held the camera above my head and looked up at the camera. The result was a lovely, flattering photo. That would be my advice: above the head selfie

Good luck

[carieoates]

My mum hates having her pic taken and it has projected onto me. The ones where I didn't know the pic was being taken are often the best as I'm not staging or posing. If that makes sense! Also my fave pics like @nursebeans were taken from above. There's less shadow and my eyes tend to open up more. Those thoughtful, unsuspecting pics of like of me I more.

I would agree that black and white is more flattering to me anyway. I think the advice of taking lots, posed and unaware and then chosing one is a good one. Good luck, I have one or two pictures of me that I like but not many.

Hate having my photograph taken at any angle and everyone in my family knows this so never points a camera in my direction at all in fear of losing their arm and expensive cameras that said I do feel what a shame that no one has a any of me in the last 25yrs probably!!!
My OH is also vgood with photography but as @caroreessaid rubbish when he's got me in front of him he zooms in to close and I know you're thinking that's just me and my phobia however couple taken on the move as @Nicky_94 suggested and kind of acceptable, we've seen a few different shots of you Penny all lovely and watched your figure changing along your journey maybe @ballerina is right time for a new avatar and yes very brave of you to give us all the vote you've already got the award probably should read peoples very brave person choice.
Wondering if I'll ever want mine taken ever again and reading how a few of you have changed your mind over the years is giving me a little hope just a little.
where's our @callyanna gone again?

Izzy - I'm all in with you re. posting pics about yourself on the net...Simply don't have the confidence, specially post Bells Palsy which I think left me looking like a loop sided idiot. I so in awe of you people who have the guts to "show" yourself

Oh dear, the photos might have to wait. I've had an altercation with a large tub of frozen tagine, which shot out of the freezer and landed on my ankle, which is now a lurid shade of purple! Arnica has been liberally applied, but I don't feel very photogenic.
Thanks for all the tips, though. Will put them all into practice very soon - promise.

The things people do to get out of having their photo taken! I dunno

Bean

@Sue.Q callyanna is in Whitby having a little hol with hub n friends! Back in a few days x
@PennyForthem ooh that sounds horrid! Glad youve got arnica! X

@nursebean you take a lovely pic and look very slender on yr latest pics x

Thanks @CandiceMarie Memory loss she did tell me
age is wonderful

Hope you're OK @PennyForthem but agree with burst
any excuse will do