Some moments truly are one off opportunities to really capture something you know you’ll want to keep, look back on and treasure forever. Events like proms, weddings and balls are the perfect chance to take a great picture that’s worthy of blowing up and having on your wall.
To help you achieve that, we’ve put together a guide to help you take a great prom photo (or any other event).
It’s not going to be complicated, hard work or beyond you – we’re going to help!
(If you would prefer to download the guide, you can do so here).
1. SETTING THE SCENE
(aka a little planning goes a long way)
Now, you may have a home that’s ready to be photographed at the drop of a hat. Alternatively, you may have a household that starts at tidy at some point in the week, and from then on descends into chaos. If you’re firmly in the latter camp, then take a little bit of time (whilst the person to be photographed is getting ready – you’ll have hours 😉 ) to find, or create, the perfect place to take a photo.
Since we don’t have a prom (or any other aged) teenager at home, and it seemed a little odd to borrow one, bear with me as I’m illustrating this point with…me.
Try to find a good spot with natural light is possible – this will be much better than using the on camera flash. Ideally, light from a north facing window, or at least avoiding direct sunlight streaming through the window (net curtains/voiles are a good filter if this is unavoidable).
I’d like to say we created a lot of mess in our kitchen to illustrate this point – sadly, this would not be true. The image on the left is, well, normal. The image on the right is where our dining table and chairs are, and all we had to do was move the chairs. This spot is handily opposite patio doors for light.
We’d also got the perfect spot in the living room. Occupied by boxes. And, of course, it was hard to stop the dog wandering into shot too. The dog was tempted away by treats, and the boxes pushed aside, temporarily (we’re not suggesting any real tidying goes on for this).
Angle your body a little towards the light, and turn your head slightly towards the window.
Lots more on posing later, but this pose works well for showing off a dress. When standing to pose, try to have your weight on the foot furthest from the camera.
2.POSING
So, you’ve found/created the perfect spot, now how to pose (with thanks to our fab model, Andreya).
Use what you’ve got available.
Like, a kitchen chair.
Try sitting on it, with legs tucked underneath a little. Â This means that the back of the chair becomes a handy arm rest. Arms are best lightly folded – keep the hand nearest to the camera underneath the other arm.
If wearing a knee length skirt, try to angle knees away from the camera.
The image on the right below works well for a more traditional head and shoulders portrait.
Posture is always important – aim for a straight back but with shoulders relaxed.
Lean slightly back into the chair.
Head can be straight, or tilting slightly towards the shoulder that’s furthest away from the camera.
You can also try a sofa.
Sofas can be great for leaning on one arm of. Lie on your side, looking up, or roll forward on your hips, bringing your top leg over onto the sofa.
If you have killer heels on, don’t forget to have those showing too!
For the perfect standing pose:
1. Stand facing the camera, bend one knee slightly, to have your weight mainly on one leg (doesn’t matter which – whatever feel more natural).
Rest your wrists on your hips, with your hands relaxed by your sides. Tuck your elbows in behind your waist.
OR
2. Stand at 45 degrees to the camera, move the leg that is now nearest to the camera slightly forward and bend the knee a little.
Turn your head back towards the camera.
Arms can be dramatically on hips, model style, or holding a wrap or bag.
You may have hired a limo, or just want a ‘leaving for the prom’ shot. The best way to achieve this is to have the car at 45 degrees to the camera, with the wheels turned towards the camera.
Stand in front of the door mirror, and go with one of the standing poses from above.
Meanwhile, if you’re taking photos outside on a sunny day, remember that beautiful though a sunny day is, squinting into the sun is not a great look for photos.
Just like indoors, outside you need to take a look at what’s around (the hazards of summer – hanging baskets and shrubbery, just waiting to look like it’s growing out of your head).
We hope, with our tips, you’ll be able to create the perfect picture to grace your wall.
Meanwhile, as an extra bonus for you, here are some styling tips from our fab stylist Kate, of Ruby Rouge Make Up.
Wonder how the world’s young fashionistas consistently look perfect on the red carpet? They have a full styling team behind them, so why not you too?
Here are some top tips to ensure your look is every bit a success:
Plan ahead of time
Once you have your dress sorted, be sure to plan your hair and make-up styling in advance too. Collate some images of looks you like to show at your trial and, of course, book your appointment in plenty of time.
Love younger looking skin?
BB creams are your friend!
Great on younger skin for a lighter, breathable base providing a dewy finish.
Add some shimmer on the top of your cheekbones, nearest your hairline for extra glam.
Know when to simplify
If your dress is bright, or has lots of embellishment, keep your hair, nails and make-up simple using nude tones. Pink and peachy tones suit most skin colours.
Go bold and clash
A very modern red carpet look is not to match the make-up and dress. So if you have a simple or neutral dress, be daring with your make-up with a punchy lip colour or a bold smoky eye.
Rather get someone else for hair and make up? Contact Kate at Ruby Rouge to book your prom or event makeover.
If you’d like to download the guide for the upmost handiness, just click here for the pdf.
Much love,
Anna
xx
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