Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, Tumblr... No matter which social media app you prefer, we're sure selfies find a way into your daily life, somehow. And even if you're camera-shy in the normal course of things, it's hard to escape them during the holiday season -- with all the dressing up and partying. So if you don't want to click 34 pictures before you're finally happy with the outcome, you're in the right place. Here are a few really simple hacks that can help you get a perfect selfie, every single time.
1. Know your angles
The front angle is usually not the most flattering one. There is just too much focus on symmetry. Instead, position your phone a bit above and about 30 degrees to the side. And let's get this straight - there is no one right angle. There are no rules, feel free to experiment with pushing your chin, looking beyond the phone, anything that makes the selfie work for you.
2. Find good lighting
If you find the right lighting, you won't ever feel the need to use a single filter on your images - seriously. Mornings are the best time for selfies, so click yours then if you can - there's just no replacing the brilliance of natural lighting. On the other hand, if you're clicking a selfie at night, know when you need to turn the flash one. It can be harsh lighting, yes, but it's nothing that a little bit of brightness editing can't fix. At least your face with be visible instead of blurring with the background.
3. Smile like you mean it
There are times when a pout is the best thing about the selfie. But then there are times when you've tried it a few times and it's still not looking right, and it just doesn't fit the occasion. Also, pouts have a way of getting old and boring to look at after a while. You know what never gets boring, though? A smile. And your camera can always tell when it's a forced one, so be warned.
4. Find an interesting prop (or partner)
What is better - a selfie clicked on Christmas or a selfie clicking while wearing a Christmas hat? I think the answer is pretty obvious. Think outside the box, look around you and see what you can use to take your selfie game up another level. Tip: Pets and books make for great selfie companions!
5. Equip yourself
The little things do make a difference. Even if it's just your phone camera, make it a habit to clean the fingerprints off the lens. There are so many wide lenses available for phone cameras - and they're really affordable too. And even though you might have dismissed people who use selfie sticks... But, let's admit it, they do make your selfies turn out much better. If you know you're going to a party or are going to be in the company of people who like to take photos, maybe it's worth investing in a couple of add-ons.
6. It's all about the location
Excuse me for being a bit blunt here - but your face doesn't change much from one selfie to another. What can make your next one look different and amazing is where you click it, instead of just how. Now, don't go trying to pull off daredevil moves for this - people have lost their lives doing that. Something simple like clicking against tiles instead of a plain wall, in a garden instead of on the road is more than enough.
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