Traveling by train from NYC to Boston last week, my seat landed directly across from professional photographer Kristine Canterbury of Canterbury Photography. Kristine takes head shots for well-known celebrities. How lucky was I to be able to meet her and her lovely husband!
And, of course during our 3-hour ride, I picked Kristine’s brain about photography, and asked for tips on how the rest of us can pose for the most flattering head shots.
Kristine’s tips for the best head shots:
- Chin out (slightly)
- Chin down (slightly)
- Teeth slightly apart when smiling
That’s it! CHIN OUT, CHIN DOWN and TEETH APART (ALL SLIGHTLY). It takes a little practice and might not feel natural at first, but just give it a try.
It’s All About The Eyes
Kristine says the focal point of a headshot should be the eyes.
“…It is very important to wear colors that bring out your eyes, skin-tone, and hair color. Stay away from white unless you are layering clothes–and limit black. Darker colors or deeper hues are generally more flattering but don’t be afraid to wear bolder colors if they will make your eyes stand out.”
Here are some of the professional photos Kristine has taken. What do you notice FIRST?
“Just flirt with the camera and have fun.” — Kristine Canterbury
Instead of a ‘cheesy grin’, try parting your teeth slightly for a more natural smile. It really works.
What about our hands?
When I asked Kristine what to do with with our hands. She replied, “Anchor Hands.” (Yes, I had to ask, too. What are anchor hands?) Elbows bent with one hand on top of the other. Hey, I just noticed who else poses with anchor hands.
For the Best Selfies…
Kristine says, “When taking selfies, always hold the camera up high–never at eye level.”
Another celebrity helped illustrate this point while we were in New York City.
Hoda Kotb of the TODAY SHOW sure knows how to take a great selfie. What a gal!
And thanks so much to Kristine Canterbury of Wimberly, Texas, for sharing secrets for flattering photos. To find out more about Canterbury Photography, click HERE.
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6 Comments
I always heard that crossing one hand over the other across your “privates” was called the “fig leaf” position!!!
Ha ha, Janet,
If remembering that phrase will help us appear more flattering and poised in photos, I’ll take it!
Great tips for posing for photos! Looks like you had an enjoyable trip. Thanks for sharing!
Sherry,
I’m practicing chin out then down, and teeth apart. It’s not hard at all.
I think it really works!
Hey Sharon,
I ‘m practicing the “chin out, chin down & teeth apart” for selfies. Still have some ways to go before I have it down pat.
CW
Just look in the mirror, Candice.
You will see an immediate smoothing of your neckline. It really works!