I look completely different in photos than in real life, different for the worse. My nose always appears longer and my face looks flatter.
Why do some people look different in a photograph?
2007-12-27 09:16:44 · 10 answers · asked by smr 3 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Visual Arts ➔ Photography
This is the second time I answered this today, but my answer remains the same.
Everyone has an "open" and a "closed" side to their face. If you look at a photo of a person straight on and cover half, then switch, you will see one side is fatter, one thinner. Usually if a person is right handed, that will be the open side of their face. In dealing with people in normal every day situations, this is usually not very noticeable, but when photographed, it becomes obvious. As humans, we find a more balanced face more pleasing. In an article years back Denzel Washington was used as an example of a very balanced face, while Lyle Lovitt was the example of an asymmetrical face. Generally, a portrait photographer will use lighting and posing to try to compensate for any lack of balance.
This facial feature, as well as ability to pose and relax in front of a camera is what makes a person photogenic.
If you are having trouble with your portraits, put it in the hands of a pro!
2007-12-27 09:21:09 · answer #1 · answered by Perki88 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Marie,
Are you basing this "I look completely different in photos than in real life" on what YOU think, or what others are telling you.
If it's simply your own perception, then the most likely explanation is that you are used to seeing yourself in a mirror, and therefore how you appear when you're NOT left-to-right reversed is jarring against what you are expecting to see.
There is a simple term to describe those who are perceived as "beautiful" and that word is "symmetric". If you have left-right symmetry, then you will appear more attractive. A good photographer can use lighting and angles to make a face look more symettrical. Then, the MODEL is called "photogenic", and the photographer remains in the background.
2007-12-27 09:30:00 · answer #2 · answered by mark_harrison_uk2 3 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Some people just don't know how to smile properly in front of a camera and sometimes the lighting or the flash make you look really pale or washed out and can show pimples and blemishes.
2016-04-11 03:51:09 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good lighting will help.
Using a camera within its limitations will help.
If you dont use good lights, or shoot outside your cameras abilitys, you will have no chance at good photos. The long nose and spread out face means your too close to your camera.
2007-12-27 11:50:21 · answer #4 · answered by photoguy_ryan 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i agree with perki88- you have to find the best side of your face- thats why celebrities 'pose' they are putting the most flattering side of their face and body towards the cameras so they always look amazing (also goes for their outfits too)
2007-12-27 09:29:06 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Because of the different lighting.or because the cameras flash highlights your features.
2007-12-27 09:21:30 · answer #6 · answered by Aaron 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
You judge yourself differently but if you are worried have pictures taken to find your best side, its true we do have a better side or angle.
2007-12-27 09:22:04 · answer #7 · answered by scragatag 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" It is simply a question of the prejudices we have about 'good' and 'bad' looks
2007-12-27 09:26:21 · answer #8 · answered by Ian M 3 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Well, they do say the camera never lies! I know what you mean though, I hate myself in photos.
2007-12-27 09:19:30 · answer #9 · answered by Ahwell 7 · 0⤊ 4⤋
Because they are ugly? Although i am not suggesting that you are
2007-12-27 09:33:17 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 4⤋