Here's How:
- The Lighting
A pretty outdoor setting makes for gorgeous pictures -- as long as you aren't squinting in direct sunlight. An evening sunset is ideal, but keep your favorite Jackie O. shades handy just in case.
In an indoor setting, look for relaxed muted lighting. Fluorescent bulbs cast a very harsh glow, so avoid photographic evidence of being seen in such a setting at all costs. Just shout "no pictures for the press" and throw your hand over the camera lens.
- The Setting
Your photos can only be as elegant as your background. A snapshot on the high school basketball court will look a little distracting, while a photo on the campus flower garden will look much more glamorous.
If you're preparing a picturesque photo op, make sure there are no potential photo-spoliers (graffiti, street signs, and trash cans, to name a few).
- The Pose
Angle your body slightly to one side, and anchor one foot forward. Check your posture: back straight, shoulders back. Instead of looking into the lens of the camera, focus slightly above.
Twisting yourself into a "sophisticated" red carpet paparazzi pose is bound to make your look miserable. Always look comfortable, even if it means nixing your high schools for the makeshift photo "shoot."
- The Smile
Right before you "cheese," take a deep inhale and smile on your exhale. Smile like you mean it -- but don't overdo it. Just think happy thoughts (like "I'm on my way to prom!"); an inauthentic grin can be spotted from a mile away.
Forgo your usual neutral gloss for a cherry red or bold pink. Bright lipstick always makes a pretty smile pop.
- The Date
As every actor or actress can tell you, arm candy matters. Maybe more than your dress. So make sure your date's tie is straightened nicely, make sure his jacket is aligned properly, and take a quick glance at his smile - if it's one of those forced-smirks, make him laugh.
Every once in awhile, gIve your date a break and take plenty of pictures with your leading ladies.
What You Need:
- great photographer
- big smile
- pleasant lighting
