Have you ever looked at a picture of yourself and thought: “Humm…Should I lose some weight?” We’ve all been there at one point or the other, right?
Truth is, maybe you don’t. Photography is a tricky form of art, and most of us don’t understand the ins and outs of it. So, unless you have a passion for it, or you’re an experienced model, you’re probably just as clueless as the next person.
However, with social media these days, we all turn to photos as a way of expressing ourselves, and to present our brand to the world. Whether you’re a blogger, a business owner, or an avid Instagrammer, learning a few photography tricks may help you get noticed. There is no shame in wanting to look slimmer (or less curvy) for photos. We’ve all heard that a camera can add 10 pounds on you — or some cameras do at least– so wanting to shave off a few pounds for the sake of pictures is not just a vanity thing…
Ok, maybe it is a little, but we can all agree on something: given the choice, most of us would choose a slightly slimmer version of ourselves, at least when it comes to social media.
Fortunately, for the majority of us who were not meant to be size 0, there are many ways to achieve that slimming effect, even if you can’t afford the best camera or have the best photographer on hand. In fact, knowing how to work with optical illusion can give you that desired look for any picture. I often use these tricks myself.
So without further ado, here are 13 easy tricks, that anyone can do, that will help you look slimmer:
1. Wear Flattering Outfits
This first tip, it’s an obvious one, but too many people don’t think about it. In an attempt to follow fashion trends, sometimes we forget that certain types of clothes are not always complimentary to all body types.
As an example, avoid wearing crop tops unless you have an already slim figure. If you’re a little curvier or have excess weight in the middle, wearing crop tops will call attention to your problem areas.
You should also avoid pleated skirts and dresses. Although they are cute and feminine, they tend to open up, adding bulk to your frame. If you want a slimming effect in pictures is just best to avoid them altogether.
Another tip is to avoid light-colored jeans if you have thick thighs and extra weight in the middle. They tend to draw attention to those areas. Choose dark-colored jeans and high waist instead which are more flattering and elongating.
2.Monochromatic Look
This goes along with the first tip. Usually, when people wear only one color, that tends to create a slimming effect. It’s a great trick to make you look slimmer in pictures as it elongates your body giving it a continuing effect. This trick can also make you look taller if that’s what you’re aiming for.
3. Lighting
Any good photographer would tell you that good lighting is essential for a good picture, and intuitively we know that too. Good lighting won’t necessarily make you look slimmer but will show a better version of you.
However, we’ve all heard the saying “too much of a good thing” and that applies to light as well. Excess lighting can make you squint and that won’t do you any good. On the other hand, not enough lighting can create shades on your face and that’s not a flattering look either.
When taking a picture, try to take advantage of natural lighting, having in mind the right amount of light is key. Good lighting will blur any skin imperfections such as acne or scarring that you might have, creating an instant photoshop effect.
If taking pictures outdoors, try to pick times when natural lighting is optimal: early in the day or later afternoon are the best times.
4. Good posture
Slouching is not a good look for anyone. Standing up straight or sitting up straight can make you look taller and will slim you down. Not to mention it will make you look more confident and confidence is an attractive trait, making your picture more appealing.
5. Know your angles
We all have a better side or a better angle. Some people are more blessed than others and they look good at any angle, but most of us have a better side. Try to figure out which one is yours, if you haven’t already, and take advantage of it.
6. Position your camera slightly below eye level
When taking full body pics, positioning your camera just below eye-level will automatically create an elongating effect and as a result slim you down in pictures.
7. Use Shapewear
If you haven’t tried shapewear yet, I highly encourage you to do so, especially if you are committed to achieving that slimming effect. Shapewear is a great way to hide imperfections such as bulges, cellulite and can also give you support where you need it.
There are tons of brands to choose from these days that are not only comfortable but also effective in giving you an instant slimmer figure. Kim Kardashian is a big fan of shapewear, so much so, that she created a whole business out of her passion for it. And who better than the queen of social media herself as proof that it works?
8. Wear clothing with vertical stripes
This is probably the oldest trick in the book, but it works. Vertical stripes play with optical illusion of elongating the body and they can make you look skinnier because the stripes tend to stand out from your body. Take advantage of it, choose smaller stripes in dark colors and avoid dressing in the same pattern from head to toe because that can accentuate your waist, and if you are on the curvier side will have the opposite effect.
9. Put your chin up
Double chin is not a good look for anyone. By sticking your chin up in pictures, you will slim down your face and avoid the appearance of a double chin. Try to not overdo it though, because if you’re looking up too much, it will give you an unwanted effect.
10. Put your tongue on the roof of your mouth while smiling
This might sound weird but when you put your tongue on the roof of your mouth just behind your teeth while smiling, it helps tighten the area of your chin giving you a more defined look.
11. Photograph from above
Sometimes the best angles for your body aren’t always the same for your face. When taking portraits or selfies position the camera from above. It gives the angles of your face more definition.
12. Use fake tanner
I know not everyone is a fan of a fake tan, but a darker complexion can make your body look tighter and more toned thus giving an overall slimmer look. It’s a bit time consuming to apply self-tanner on yourself before taking pictures but the results you will get will be amazing.
13. Stand (or Sit) at a 45-degree angle
This tip is a true testament to how important angles are in a picture. When you position yourself at a 45-degree angle towards the camera, it will automatically slim you down. For best results, when standing, try to put one foot forward and out while leaning backward putting the rest of your body weight on the back foot. Works like a charm!
These are all the tricks I use to make myself look better in all my Insta pics. I’m sure there are more out there but that’s what I have for now. If you thought these tips were helpful, don’t forget to share and follow on social media to help spread the word!
