Why photos look “off”
- Lens distortion from close-up phone cameras.
- Mirror effect: you’re used to your mirrored face, so unmirrored photos look strange to you (not to others).
- Flat or harsh light that hides or exaggerates shape.
- Tension: holding a smile too long.
How to become more photogenic
- Find your light: soft, directional, slightly to one side.
- Learn your angle: take 20 photos turning slowly; pick your favorite side.
- Posture: tall spine, shoulders down, chin forward.
- Real expressions: laugh, breathe out, look away and back.
- Practice: models get photogenic by shooting a lot.
See how to pose for pictures and selfie tips.
