We’ve all been there — you look at a photo and think, “Ugh, why do I look like that?” Whether it’s your school yearbook photo or a friend’s wedding, we’ve all found ourselves in front of the camera at some point. If you’ve recently looked at photos with disdain and wished you could have looked better, this post is for you. Whether it’s for a family photoshoot, maternity session, or any other special moment, there are simple ways to look your best in your photos. Check out these six easy tips to help you get fantastic results!

1. Get to Know Your Face Before You Photos are Taken

The first step to looking great in photos is understanding your own face. This applies to every photoshoot, whether professional or casual. Spend some time learning how to smile naturally, which side of your face you prefer, and what angles work best for you. The more comfortable and familiar you are with your features, the more confident you’ll feel during your photoshoot. When you’re comfortable, it will naturally show in your pictures! Teri Hofford did an amazing TedTalk on this topic!

2. Easy on the Makeup

While makeup is a great way to enhance your features, less is more when it comes to photoshoots, especially for family, maternity, or headshot sessions. A little bit of basic coverage is all you need to smooth out your complexion. Avoid overdoing it, and try to focus on accentuating one part of your face — either your eyes or your lips, but not both. This will create a natural, balanced look that will shine in your photos.

3. Facing the Camera

One of the most important posing tips is to avoid facing the camera head-on. When you face the camera directly, you tend to lose the natural shape of your body. Instead, angle your body slightly to one side. Positioning yourself this way will create a more flattering shape and will make the photo look more dynamic. Your photographer will guide you on how to pose, but keep this tip in mind when preparing for the shoot.

4. Controlling Your Chin

Want a more flattering, elongated neck and a more angular face? Try slightly pushing your chin forward and down when posing for your photos. This simple trick will create a lift to your face and minimize any double chin. It might feel a little awkward at first, but practice beforehand to get used to it — your photos will thank you!

5. Pick Your Outfit Carefully for Your Photos

What you wear to your photoshoot is just as important as how you pose! Choose outfits that you feel confident and comfortable in. Consider pairing bold designs or patterns with solid colors to keep the focus on you, not your clothes. Pay attention to the fit and shape of your outfit — make sure it flatters your body and doesn’t feel too tight or too loose. You should feel at ease in your outfit so you can relax and look your best.

6. Use Lighting to Your Advantage

Lighting can make or break a photo, and luckily, your professional photographer is an expert in using it to your advantage! For photoshoots, avoid standing directly under harsh overhead lights, as this can create unflattering shadows. We’ll guide you to the best lighting for your photos — whether that’s taking advantage of natural light during the “golden hour” just before or after sunset or finding the perfect shade outdoors to avoid dappled lighting. Trust us to handle the lighting so you can focus on enjoying the shoot!

While these tips will certainly help you look your best in your professional photos, the most important thing to remember is to have fun and relax! When you’re having a good time, it will absolutely shine through in your photos. At Alabaster Photos, we specialize in capturing beautiful, authentic moments of your growing family — from maternity shoots to newborn sessions. Let us help you feel confident and look amazing while preserving precious memories.

So, whether you’re expecting a new little one, celebrating a milestone, or just want to capture beautiful moments with your family, we’re here to make sure you look and feel fantastic in every photos.