RULE 1: KNOW YOUR ANGLES
This is the most important preparation for anyone who hasn't managed to take a decent photo. Dig out all your old photos, look at everything on Facebook, and identify your best angle. It might be a profile shot, or one where your chin is titled downwards. Maybe your left side photographs better than your right. Because I have puffiness under the eyes, I need to keep my head straight and catch the light head on. That's my best angle. If I tilt my head upwards, my bone structure becomes too strong and if I look downwards, the bags under my eyes become pronounced. Women who take good photos love looking at themselves, so they already know their best angles. Once you know which side works to your advantage, practice slight variations in front of the mirror.
This may sounds weird, but trust me. Your face changes completely when you smile. Look at Saif. When he's keeping a straight face, he has the ultimate brooding, manly face. But the minute he smiles, he transforms into a naughty school boy. His eyes crinkle at the sides and his dimples appear. Grin at yourself in the mirror, preferably when you're alone with the door closed or people might think you've lost it. Some people might look better with a full grin, while others prefer a half smile without exposing their teeth. Unless it's a candid shot and you were caught unawares, you can control the way you smile for the camera to get the ultimate shot.
RULE 3: FIND THE LIGHT
Lighting can also play a crucial role in the way you look in a photograph. If the light is directly above you, harsh shadows will appear on your face. The best light is usually one that hits you straight on, unless you're being shot by a professional who knows how to illuminate your face to highlight your best features. Colour matters too. White light tends to make the Indian complexion with its yellow undertones look dull and sallow. Yellow light, on the other hand, adds warmth and richness to the skin's natural hues.
RULE 4: CONFIDENCE
Confidence, as one of my favourite photographers, Prasada Naik, always says, is the key to getting a good photograph. When we shoot together, he hardly ever talks, because he says I'm his most confident subject. Think of a funny story or someone you love' it will help you loosen up, bring a real smile to your face and put a sparkle in your eyes. And there, picture perfect.
RULE 5: GOT IT, FLAUNT IT!
Don't be afraid of flaws like gaps between your teeth or small scars on your face. Remember Padma Lakshmi? She became the hottest thing ever because of the long scar on her arm, and she shows it off like a piece of expensive jewellery. Remember if you can't change it, work with it!
Kapoor, Kareena; Pinto, Rochelle (2012-11-17). The Style Diary of a Bollywood Diva (Kindle Locations 3019-3034). Penguin Books India Pvt Ltd. Kindle Edition.
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