Learning ways to look more photogenic is never a bad idea… because the more you know, right? From the tilt trick Kendall Jenner swears by to the perfect lighting choice for your selfie, it’s all about the little tricks when it comes to looking your best in a photo. Selfies aside, today we’re focusing on how to appear taller in photos that other people take. Whether you’re short and looking for the best ways to pose or simply want to know how to fool the eye, we’ve got all the answers you need on how to work the camera.
To weigh in on the topic, we reached out to celebrity photographer Mike Coppola from Getty Images for his expert advice. From behind the lens, he has captured the likes of Emma Watson, Kim Kardashian West, and Alexa Chung to name a few. Coppola shared simple tips (that make a major difference) on things like posture and position to ensure you look long and lean the next time you’re posing for a photo. Intrigued?
Scroll down for five ways to give yourself extra height in photos.
“Celebrities like Kate Upton are pros at this pose, which is perfect for a full-length portrait. Stand in front of the camera and turn your shoulders at a 45-degree angle, with your weight on your back foot and front leg pointed forward. Placing your arm at your waist, rock your hips back slightly, and lean the top half of your body forward just a little bit. It may feel a little awkward, but this pose will elongate your body.” — Mike Coppola, Getty Images photographer.
“Always make sure your shoulders are back and chin slightly up. Take a deep breath and roll your shoulders back so that your posture is straight but relaxed, just like Emma Watson.” — Mike Coppola, Getty Images photographer.
“If you’re the one taking the photo, be sure to not position the camera too high nor too low, shoot from just a little above the eye level. To avoid size distortion, make sure the camera angle is straight and even. Take a few measured steps back and even out the angle to ensure your subject is well proportioned and fills the frame, like Alexa Chung here.” — Mike Coppola, Getty Images photographer.
“Candid moments are indiscriminate of height. You can capture those moments that tell a great story even on your phone. Heads together or shooting at an angle evens out height and focuses on the subject.” — Mike Coppola, Getty Images photographer.
“If your significant other is taller than you, have them step a few feet behind you, then taking their front foot and stepping toward you, which will help to close the height gap. Having the picture taken from a slight angle with you positioned in front will also elevate you into the frame.” — Mike Coppola, Getty Images photographer
Shop our favorite photo-ready items:
Nude heels always lend a long and lean look.
A flowy trench coat is a great way to conceal any body hang-ups in a photo.
This print and the A-line cut are sure to accentuate your waist.
Exposing your collarbone is a great trick to look slimmer in photos.
You can’t go wrong with a good pair of block heels. The added height will help to elongate your legs.
Which trick do you plan to try? Share it and tag a friend in the comments below.
Opening Image: Collage Vintage