9 Photogenic Poses That Always Work

If photos are worth a thousand words, you don’t want any of those words to be “awkward” and “uncomfortable.” So for help, we studied some of our favorite pros on Instagram and found their go-to poses. Let’s just say we’re ready for our next vacation now.

It makes for a pretty backdrop and instantly makes you look more relaxed.

Like you used to when you were a little kid. Again, it helps to find a bright background (like that aforementioned colorful wall).

As if they were just slipping down your nose and the camera happened to catch you mid-movement.

Here’s the key: Smile and look away when you do this so the effect is cute and charming (and not like you’re hiding a deadly secret).

The inherent problem with posing is that it feels unnatural to just stand there and have your photo taken. And this is precisely why the mid-stride snap is genius.

How is this different from leaning against a wall? The subtle perch allows you to extend and angle your legs out further (which, in turn, makes them appear longer).

Remember Chandler’s frozen smile every time his picture was taken in Friends? You can avoid that altogether by just averting your gaze away from the lens.