Tips for Taking Great Selfies and Self-Portraits

Today’s cameras make it easy to take Selfies, with some models even designed to make it simple to take self-portraits. What’s the difference between a selfie and a self-portrait? Selfies are casual shots of yourself at an event or just for fun. A self-portrait is more of a self-representation or what you feel about yourself. We have some tips to help you take better shots off both! And with everyone sharing their images on social media these days, there are plenty of people waiting to see your next shot.

Selfies

Sometimes, a good selfie is just what your website’s ‘about’ section or blog needs. But it won’t count for much if it isn’t top quality. That’s why we took it upon ourselves to do some selfie research.

Get the light right

Stand in front of a window or in soft flattering light. Make sure that there isn’t one source of hard light that is hitting your face. Also, make sure that the source of light is in front, not behind you.

Find your good side

Find your face’s best angle by taking several test shots. After all, the “film” is free if you’re using a digital camera from Beachcamera.com.

Stretch those arms

If the phone is too close to your face it will distort the picture.

Check out the background

Yes, your face is the most important thing. But the background you choose can enhance the overall effect. What good is a great selfie if your face is next to a toilet? Being mindful of your surroundings is always a good idea and can really take your selfie to the next level.

Self portraits

Advances in digital photography are making it easier than ever to capture striking self-portraits. We'll walk you through some simple steps for taking your first self-portrait. You’ll discover how to photograph yourself in a whole new light.

Use a tripod

Unless you want to shoot selfie-style, you'll need to rely on a tripod to hold your camera. A lightweight tripod with a ball head found in the Vanguard tripod line from Beachcamera.com is portable yet sturdy enough to support a DSLR camera.

Self-timer and burst mode

The easiest way to fire your camera from a distance is by using its self-timer or a wireless remote. Even if all you need is one photo, it's not a bad idea to have your camera set to burst mode so you can vary your pose or expression.

Place yourself in a visually interesting environment

Help make your images pop by surrounding yourself with patterns and textures such as a red brick wall, a field of flowers or a sea of turquoise water.

Put yourself in the landscape

The next time you're on a hike or scenic drive, bring your tripod along and look for opportunities to jump right into the landscape.

Let your creativity flow

Think outside the box. Embrace the self-portrait as an opportunity to experiment, try out new concepts and let your guard down. These tips will help you create some frame-worthy art. The timeline of photos you take will be a way to look back and remember when and where you took that photo, and what was going on in your life at that time.