Most of us don’t look like Instagram models (we all have those semi-famous people with a constant stream of flawless Instagram poses), but that doesn’t mean we can’t look as good in our photos as they do. You just have to have a few tricks up your sleeve when your friend whips out their phone and says, “I’m ‘gramming this!”


Whether you’re taking a group pic or a solo shot, there’s a few guidelines to keep in mind so you can kill it in photos.


Get out of your comfort zone. Chances are that you have a pose you default to when it comes to photos, like sticking your tongue out or putting your hands in your pockets. Bust out of your comfort zone and change up your poses or at least stay away from the boring one that’s your go-to now.

Chances are that you have a pose you default to when it comes to photos, like sticking your tongue out or putting your hands in your pockets. Bust out of your comfort zone and change up your poses or at least stay away from the boring one that’s your go-to now. Go for faux action. Looking like you’re doing something makes for a more interesting and engaging photo than if you just stand there or make the same pose every time (I’m looking at you sorority squatters). But, you don’t want to move at the same speed as if you were actually doing something (like walking, jumping on your friend, adjusting your watch) since that can lead to a blurred photo. This will feel awkward at first, but you won’t end up looking awkward.

If it bends, bend it

Smile naturally. A real smile goes a long way towards making you look great in a photo. If you or others in the photo are having trouble busting out a genuine smile, I’ve found making a farting noise (don’t really fart!) works well. It’s childish...but it get the job done.


Ask the photographer to shoot from a mid-line. We tend to put the camera at face height when taking a photo, but that might not be the best angle. If the photographer does this, ask them to squat or bend over a little to get an angle that’s closer to waist level of the group. Shooting from a higher angle can make your body look disproportionate.




Beyond these guidelines, you can also use best practices for taking great photos in general, such as good lighting (use your or someone else’s smartphone in a pinch) and adjusting your camera’s settings. If you need some pose inspiration, check out Instagrams of musicians, celebrities, and artists that you like since their style and aesthetic will appeal to you.