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Journal / How to look better on camera (without changing anything about you)

Guide

How to look better on camera (without changing anything about you)

Short answerRaise the camera to eye level, face soft light, step back so the lens isn’t too close to your face, sit or stand tall, and look at the lens instead of the screen.

Camera height

Most unflattering selfies are shot from below. Lift the phone to eye level or slightly above.

Distance

Front cameras are wide. Very close to your face, they make whatever is nearest the lens (usually your nose) look bigger. Moving the phone back a little, or using a stand, gives a more natural look.

Light

Soft, even light from in front is the most flattering. A window on a cloudy day is ideal. Avoid a single bare bulb overhead, which creates shadows under the eyes.

Posture and eyes

  • Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed.
  • Angle your body slightly and turn your face back to the camera.
  • Look at the lens, not your own face on the screen; that’s what reads as eye contact.

Background

A tidy, simple background keeps attention on you. A little distance between you and the wall adds depth.

Questions

Why do I look different in selfies than in the mirror?

The mirror shows you flipped; many selfies aren’t. You’re used to the mirror version. Settings › Camera › Mirror Front Camera changes how selfies save.

About Music Wide Selfie

An iPhone camera app for people who film themselves, coming soon to the App Store. One email when it launches.

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