LESSONS FOR THAT PERFECT SELFIE SNAP…

#selfie2014

Last year was in my opinion, the “year of selfies.” It was oxford Dictionary’s word of the year: the selfie.

Barack Obama; David Cameron, Hillary Clinton, Meryl Streep and even Pope Francis have done it. So have Rihanna, the entire Kardashian Klan and every other celebrity on the planet. It is the reason Instagram will become 2014’s biggest social media account yet.

While you may not have Kim Kardashian looks, it’s imperative to know how to take a good photo of yourself considering the number of people who will see it. So don’t ever be in a rush to put it on Instagram; Facebook and twitter before you can say (hash tag) selfie.

If last year was described as the year of social media, trust me, it will have nothing on this year. So here are a few commandments on how to take a picture of yourself.

1.      Always have the tallest person hold the camera, or your phone. That prevents the double and triple chin, and it captures everyone.

2.      Use all those layers of filters. Don’t buy into the hype of celebrities who post barefaced selfies on social media.

3.      Selfies are not about you. Let others in on the fun. Selfies get feedback-and let’s be honest, you are posting because you want that.

4.      Edit. Edit. Edit. That’s why you have filters; apps, presentation formats and Lord knows what else on your smartphone and tablet.

5.      Those glamorous, stunning images in magazines are not one-offs. It takes 100 images to get one perfect shot. Keep snapping until you have three hard- to –pick options, then choose the best and post. Return that favour even when it includes other people. They want to look good too.

6.      Selfies are for all. Share that hair change, great looks or your new accessory.

7.      Photography rules apply. Check your background as natural light is always the best. Take a few test shots to get your flattering side.

8.      Captions are just as critical as images.

9.      Smile. Yes. I know. Everyone blows a kiss and sometimes even look pretty hot. Don’t do it. If you wouldn’t want that face in your parent’s family album being thumped through by non-digital strangers.

10.  No matter what Kim Kardashian’s 579392 likes indicate or two million Baby Monster tweets; you must flaunt your best assets. If eyes are your best feature, wear mascara; eyeliner or eye shadow. If it is your lips, get a lip colour that is flattering to your skin tone.

By Embukane Vincent Libosso; as inspired by Sunday Nation’s Fashion Writer- Carol Odero.