5 Tips For Looking Fabulous In Your Christmas Photos This Year

If you’re anything like us, having your picture taken and shared with hundreds of friends and relatives is a little intimidating. But there’s no need to renew your Adobe photoshop subscription just yet. Here are some tips you can use to look great in your Christmas photos this year. 

1. Find a New Angle 

Any art history buff knows that perspective is everything. A chiseled Roman statue could look bloated and distorted from the wrong angle. See where we’re going with this? You’re the Roman statue, and it’s time your best features were put on proper display. 

Finding a flattering angle doesn’t have to be complicated. Since your photographer will likely take direct, head-on shots, try positioning your body at a 45-degree angle. Instead of having both shoulders face the lens, turn slightly so that only one does.

In addition to shifting your position in front of the camera, try: 

• Making a triangle shape with your dominant arm

• Pulling your shoulders back 

• Tilting your chin up (or at a slight angle) 

Take it from a photographer: You want to look as tall and lean in your photos as possible. 

2. Join the No-Puff Club 

Excess puffiness, especially around the cheeks and eyes, doesn’t always make for the most flattering portraits. For photos, it’s best to keep excess water retention at bay whenever you can. In the days leading up to your portrait session, keep salt consumption to a minimum, drink lots of water, and practice lymphatic drainage techniques. 

If possible, try and schedule your session to line up with the follicular or ovulatory phase of your cycle. Women typically look their best during these phases when estrogen is increasing, our skin is clear and radiant, and we’re less bloated. On the other hand, water retention and grogginess can accompany the luteal and menstrual phases. Trust me, I speak from experience – that’s just biology. 

3. Keep Your Makeup Simple 

Ready to try out that smokey eye palette you got on Black Friday? Go for it (another time, though)! Refrain from super glamorous looks for Christmas photos. As you know, a high-quality camera will emphasize everything, so it’s best to keep your look natural and minimal so your photos reflect your best natural features. 

The makeup formula that typically leads to beautiful photos includes:

• Light skin coverage (foundation, concealer) 

• Blush on the apples of your cheeks 

• Light brown eyeshadow following your natural crease 

• Mascara on top and bottom lashes 

• Groomed, natural browns 

• The slightest hint of lip color and gloss 

Avoiding tons of powder, bronzer, eyeliner, and lipstick is a safe bet. The same goes for nails – neutral is the way to go! 

4. Sport Your Best Colors 

We understand, Christmas is a bright, jolly time full of bright, jolly colors. But don’t purchase that vibrant crimson dress just yet! For your Christmas photos, you want to ensure your clothing accentuates your natural coloring instead of clashing with it. 

To find your best colors, we recommend using the seasonal analysis system, which is based on undertones and skin saturation. When in doubt, bring along a brutally honest friend to your Christmas photo outfit shopping. She’ll help you bring into account your eye color, hair color, and skin tone. 

Sometimes, all it takes is a twinkle in your pal’s eye to let you know which dress to say yes to. Still intent on going shopping solo? We recommend checking out The Concept Wardrobe for seasonal analysis tips and tricks. 

5. Look Natural 

One of the best tidbits we can leave you with is to look natural. You live a rich, fulfilling, joy-filled life. You want to convey that to friends and family through your Christmas photos! 

Depending on your budget and time allotment, ask your photographer to shoot a few candids of you and your crew. Get the hubs and kids laughing and relaxed, and who knows? You may choose one of your organic shots over one of the staged ones for your Christmas photos. 

Whatever you end up doing, make sure you feel comfortable. It’s often worth it to go with a venue and photographer you know over the ones you see on your Instagram feed. Remember: your Christmas photos are in your hands, and you deserve to have fun taking them.

Closing Thoughts

We all tend to be self-conscious about getting our photos taken. But with good posing, prep, makeup, colors, and attitude, you’ll be on your way to getting the Christmas cards of your dreams! 

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