Get back in the photos - be visible in midlife again!
I’ve hated seeing photos of me for as long as I can remember. I’ve been ridiculously over critical of myself and finding a photo that I would be willing to frame could be as rare as hen’s teeth! But becoming a podcast host forced me to do more on social media and, at some point, I decided to stop giving myself a hard time and to change my attitude.
For years I would make sure I was at the back of a group picture, try not to stand next to someone really slim - or, even better, offer to take the photo myself! Menopausal weight gain didn’t help my confidence either.
I was still stuck in the Kodak generation of 24 exposures per film roll, nervous chatter about ‘how I hate having my picture taken’, inevitably resulting in odd faces, open mouths and terrible angles - all self-inflicted! Well those days are well over and millennials have mastered the art of the selfie. We have plenty of opportunities to take a shot that compliments us.
And it’s not vanity by the way… it’s memories. It finally occurred to me that, in years to come, I would really regret not being in those albums and part of those milestone moments with kids, grandkids, at weddings, graduations and reunions.
Far too often mums are the ones behind the camera. Don’t forget your family want to see YOU in the picture too!
So check out this Midlife Minute with excellent advice from Eddie Judd on taking a flattering selfie. Slap on a smile, find some decent lighting and look forward to many hours in your future enjoying the nostalgia with your family.
Here’s a few hints that may help.
Many (many!) years ago I worked for the Walt Disney Co. on the opening of Disneyland Paris. One thing that stuck with me from those times in PR was the ‘Disney smile’ - a natural smile was encouraged… one row of teeth - not two (too much of a grin).
Lighting is your friend - but not harsh overhead lights - window light or outdoors is the best.
Find the most flattering angle for your face. Practice in the bathroom mirror! Anthea Turner shared with me that you need to look slightly left or right and gently tilt your chin so that your jawbone is exposed. Taking a photo straight on can lose that definition of chin into neck. Definitely not a look to go for.
When taking a selfie hold the camera slightly above your eye level - if you take it from bottom up you can start counting those extra chins that probably don’t exist in another angle!
Check background for clutter (or embarrassing items!)
Use portrait mode - it’s really flattering
Try to avoid using filters but experiment with exposure and brightness.
If you’re the face of your business or brand, consider some professional shots. It can make a huge difference in the way your potential customer perceives you.
A little bit of lippy goes a long way
Use the rule of thirds: Position yourself off-center in the frame for a more visually interesting photo.
Keep it steady: Hold your phone or camera steady to avoid blurry photos. Consider a tripod.
Use a self-timer if you need to get a bunch of shots of yourself from further away.
A genuine smile and a relaxed attitude can make your selfie more engaging and attractive. Even that dumb fake laugh can make a huge difference and look natural in the photo.
Remember, taking a great selfie is all about feeling confident and enjoying the process. Recruit a teenager to help you. They are absolute experts. Experiment with different techniques and have fun!
If you are interested in getting professional branding shots done by Eddie Judd, you can contact her at https://eddiejuddphotography.shootproof.com
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