It’s very common to feel a bit thrown off when seeing yourself in photos compared to the mirror. Cameras can be tricky–angles, lighting, and especially lens choice can play a big role. Smartphone selfies often use wide-angle lenses that can distort facial features, making some areas seem larger than they are.

The way we see ourselves in a photo might not always align with how others see us. Our brains are wired to focus on our perceived imperfections, while others see the whole picture, including our personalities, which can be hard to capture in a single snapshot. In the studio, when clients are choosing which images to purchase, I often suggest that they heavily weigh the input of whoever they brought with them for this reason.

To combat the double-chin situation, try slightly pushing your chin toward the camera. When you get it right, it might feel unnatural at first but it will create a more defined jawline for the camera. It can also help if the camera is a little above the jawline, like taking the photo from eye level of above. Good lighting can also change the appearance of a face’s shape in photos. For a double chin, try to get the light from slightly above the chin (or way above the chin–look for reflective surfaces below or co-level, such as car headlights). Also, do an image search for “short lighting,” and see if you can position yourself in group photos to have the main light source work in your favor. Sometimes, a slight turn of the head instead of looking directly into the camera can make a difference.

Everyone has their good side. It’s probably the side you part your hair on, but not always. Don’t hesitate to reposition yourself if it makes you feel more comfortable–that confidence will come through in the photos, and the photos will then capture your personality. That’s what it’s all about.

Never do extra work for no pay

Not all pay comes in dollars. That’s a business lesson, not a capitalism one.

Still think this particular job sounds like a bad deal, though.

undisputed

Ummm…

I mean, his stuff is great, no doubt. But the king? He specializes in a very consistent, very repeatable, very marketable look (with a whole lot of hype). It’s a greaet business plan and he implements is extremely well.

And that means he doesn’t tailor his teaching so students learn to create images uniquely suited to the client’s uses, or even to their industry. For the most part–and by design–the images create by the Headshot Crew all look the same.

And most of them have alien-eye triangle catchlights that not everyone appreciates because they don’t look natural.

I follow him. He does great work. But “undisputed” all-caps “KING” might be a little bit strong for people outside of his cult.

They asked you to work during the holiday party?

Are they paying you holiday wages?

Paying up front is normal. That’s a long time to wait for photos.

What does your contract say? You did sign a contract, yeah?

It will be welcomed by some and bothersome to others. Just have to find the right fit. I did an unpaid internship that turned into a paid position.

Definitely look at workshop put on by working or recently retired professionals. Pay $150-300 for an all-day workshop, pick up some skills and–more importantly–meet the working photographers in your area who might be looking for interns.

Other workshops may be more expensive but you can likely find plenty for that price from professional organizations in your area. You usually don’t have to be a working professional to join them or attend the workshops, either.