I. Understanding Facial Views & Common "Flaws"
* Symmetry is Myth: Most faces are *not* perfectly symmetrical. This is normal! Trying to force perfect symmetry often looks unnatural.
* Dominant Side: Everyone has a "better" or "dominant" side. This is usually the side with more defined features or the side that feels more comfortable to show. Encourage your subject to experiment in a mirror to discover theirs.
* Common Concerns: People often worry about:
* Double Chin: A common concern regardless of weight.
* Large Nose: A dominant feature that some want to minimize.
* Asymmetrical Features: Uneven eyes, lips, or jawlines.
* Forehead Size: Some want to make it appear smaller.
* "Squinty" Eyes: Can make someone look tired or closed off.
II. Camera Angles & Their Effects
* Eye Level:
* How: The camera lens is at the same height as the subject's eyes.
* Effect: Creates a neutral, honest, and direct connection with the viewer. Good for professional headshots or when you want to capture the subject as they are.
* When to Use: When you want a straightforward and authentic portrait.
* Slightly Above Eye Level (Slightly High Angle):
* How: The camera lens is positioned slightly above the subject's eye level.
* Effect: Makes the subject appear smaller, younger, and more vulnerable. Can also thin the face and minimize a double chin (but avoid going *too* high). Makes the eyes appear larger.
* When to Use: For portraits where you want to create a sense of approachability or innocence. Also good for subjects with a strong jawline. *This is often a flattering starting point.*
* Slightly Below Eye Level (Slightly Low Angle):
* How: The camera lens is positioned slightly below the subject's eye level.
* Effect: Makes the subject appear taller, more powerful, and confident. Can accentuate the jawline and make the subject look more imposing.
* When to Use: For portraits where you want to convey authority or strength. Use with caution, as it can also exaggerate features like nostrils.
* High Angle (Looking Down):
* How: The camera is positioned significantly above the subject's head.
* Effect: Makes the subject appear small, weak, and vulnerable. Often used to create a sense of isolation or insignificance.
* When to Use: Rarely used for flattering portraits *unless* you're going for a specific artistic effect. It can dramatically shorten the face and emphasize the forehead.
* Low Angle (Looking Up):
* How: The camera is positioned significantly below the subject's chin.
* Effect: Distorts the face, accentuates the chin and neck, and can make the subject look unnatural or intimidating.
* When to Use: Almost never used for flattering portraits. It can be used for dramatic or stylized shots but requires careful planning.
III. Facial View (Head Tilt & Body Position) and How to Combine with Camera Angle
This is where the magic happens! Combining the *right* head tilt and body position with the appropriate camera angle can drastically improve a portrait.
* Double Chin:
* Solution:
* Slightly High Angle: The primary solution.
* Forward Lean: Have the subject gently push their forehead *slightly* forward. This extends the neck and reduces the appearance of a double chin. Tell them to imagine their forehead is reaching for the camera. *Caution:* Overdoing this creates an unnatural expression.
* Chin Down, Eyes Up: Have them slightly lower their chin and raise their eyes to meet the camera.
* Head Tilt (Slight): A slight tilt to one side can also elongate the neck.
* Large Nose:
* Solution:
* Avoid Profile Shots: Direct profile shots emphasize the nose.
* Slight Angle: Have the subject turn their face slightly away from the camera. A 3/4 view is often best.
* Avoid Low Angles: Looking up at the subject will exaggerate the nose.
* Use Soft Lighting: Harsh lighting can accentuate the nose.
* Asymmetrical Features:
* Solution:
* Identify the "Better" Side: Have the subject experiment in front of a mirror to find their most flattering side.
* Angle the Body: Position the subject so their "better" side is facing the camera more directly.
* Head Tilt: Use a slight head tilt to balance the asymmetry.
* Lighting: Use lighting to soften the less flattering side.
* Forehead Size:
* Solution:
* Slightly High Angle: Can help reduce the perceived size.
* Hair: Hair can be styled to cover part of the forehead.
* Avoid Low Angles: Will make the forehead appear larger.
* "Squinty" Eyes:
* Solution:
* Encourage Relaxation: Have the subject relax their facial muscles. Tension often leads to squinting.
* Talk and Engage: A natural smile helps open up the eyes.
* Slightly High Angle: Makes eyes appear larger.
* Avoid Direct Sunlight: Bright sunlight causes squinting. Use a diffuser or find shade.
IV. Communication is Key
* Explain What You're Doing: Don't just start snapping pictures. Tell your subject why you're asking them to tilt their head or shift their weight. People are more cooperative when they understand the purpose.
* Give Positive Feedback: Even small compliments can boost confidence and make the subject more relaxed. "That's a great angle for your face!"
* Be Patient: Finding the perfect pose and angle takes time. Don't rush the process.
* Show Them the Pictures: Let your subject see the results. This gives them a chance to provide feedback and adjust their pose.
V. Other Important Considerations
* Focal Length: Use a longer focal length lens (e.g., 85mm, 100mm, or even longer) for portraits. Shorter focal lengths can distort facial features.
* Lighting: Good lighting is crucial for flattering portraits. Soft, diffused light is generally the most flattering. Avoid harsh shadows and direct sunlight. (This is a *huge* topic on its own!)
* Background: Choose a background that is simple and uncluttered. Avoid distracting elements that will draw attention away from the subject.
* Posing: Beyond facial angles, consider overall body posture. Slightly angled bodies are generally more flattering than standing straight on. Have the subject shift their weight to one leg.
In summary: Flattering portraits are about understanding facial anatomy, using camera angles and head tilts to minimize perceived flaws and highlight positive features, communicating effectively with your subject, and using good lighting. Practice is essential. Experiment with different angles and poses to see what works best for different people. Good luck!