How to Take Selfies the Right Way

Let’s be honest – just like twerking, people had been doing the selfie thing for a long time before someone made it a “thing” on social media (looking at you, Miley Cyrus!). But now that it has blossomed into one of those full-blown social media “things,” you might as well know how to make the most of it.

Not long ago I went to the Second Annual Las Vegas Gift + Home Market’s CEO Summit at the World Market Center and happened to meet an AMAZING woman whose work just about everyone out there will know, even if you don’t know her.

Susan Packard has had her finger in a lot of different delicious television pies (in addition to wonderful work advocating women in business), including HBO, CNBC, and literally starting HGTV. She’s also a visionary in using social media to do great things – so it seemed only fitting that I help her take her first selfie!!

So in honor of this experience, here are a few tips for sensational selfies!

Take a Look Around

Everyone seems to forget their faces don’t take up the entire pic. Make sure there’s nothing embarrassing behind you like dirty laundry, a pooping dog, someone sneezing, or a dreaded photo-bomber.

Focus, People!

Did you know your iPhone allows you to tap-to-focus? No one wants a blurry selfie!

Be Appropriate

Always use sound judgment when stretching out that arm – are you at a funeral? Driving heavy machinery? In the middle of a political speech? It can wait!

Smile!

Is your smile picture-perfect? You may want to check out these tips for improving your smile for selfies from one of my favorite dentists first!

Filter It Out

Your phone (and Instagram) will have plenty of cool filters and editing options. Don’t be shy – check ’em out! Why post another boring picture of yourself making a duck face when you can do it in sepia?

What’s Your Angle?

Not all angles are the same! If it’s just one or two people, vertical can be enough (just make sure you’re not getting too much background). But tilt and position can allow you to get the most out of the scenery and people.

Got Tags?

If you’re taking them, you might as well put them to good use. Remember to always tag images for SEO if you’re going to post them on your website!

So, have any more selfie tips to share? I’d love to see them in the comments so I can up my game!