Who doesn’t want to look their best in photos? Unfortunately, things do not always go as planned. Many readers have told us there seems to be added weight to their pictures that make them look… fatter.
In fact, there’s science behind these mysterious extra ten pounds – and since it’s science, we have come up with some logical solutions to address the dilemma. Let us explain!
In This Article:
3 Reasons Why The Camera Add 10 Pounds
There are 3 main reasons the camera seems to add weight to your pictures. Wide-angle lenses distort subjects close to the camera, and low angles also make them appear bigger. Besides, bad lighting often creates deep shadows that highlight your flaws, including perceived extra fat.
Lens Distortion
The kind of lens you use can greatly influence how your weight looks in photos.
Wide-angle lenses often distort images and make objects close to the camera seem bigger, while telephoto lenses (commonly used for portraits) provide a much more compressed and natural perspective. Hence, the phrase “the camera adds 10 pounds” refers to the distortion induced by wide- or semi-wide-angle lenses, making you appear way heavier in photos than in real life.
Worse, wide-angle lenses do not just widen the body features but also distort facial features, especially if the subject is posing very close to the camera!
That’s why most lenses for outdoor portraits have an average focal length of about 85 mm, as this doesn’t warp facial features. Using 70 to 200mm for similar purposes will likely make your face appear much fatter.
Perspective and Angles
Likewise, the angles you take in the photos also exaggerate some features. Low angles often make subjects seem bigger, while high angles create a more slimming effect.
Here’s a simple example: do you realize your neck and face often seem fatter when shot underneath eye level? Quite the contrary, pictures taken from overhead angles tend to have a better slimming effect.
Angle aside, it’s important to consider your pose as well. The key here is to work from more neutral angles that represent your look accurately without much distortion.
Lighting
And, of course, do not forget about lighting!
From our experience, soft and diffused light helps keep harsh shadows away; your flaws will be conveniently hidden, creating a more flattering image. On the other hand, direct, harsh lighting is the culprit behind horrible shadows that highlight every detail, including — you guessed it — any perceived excess weight.
Tips To Avoid Looking Fat In Pictures
For Posture
a. Overall Pose
Remember to maintain good posture with your shoulders back and down. A slight chin tilt can also lengthen your neck.
As we said earlier, harsh overhead lighting can create unflattering shadows, so use natural light to your advantage whenever possible. We suggest finding a light source slightly above you to cast a more flattering shadow on your neck and jawline, which boosts the elongated look and also keeps the double-chin issue minimal.
b. Arm Angles
Don’t hide your arms from sight! Let us tell you how to do it:
First, slightly bend your elbows and place your hands on your hips. Hold an accessory; they add visual interest and give your hands something natural to do. Then, gently curve them in front of you to showcase any rings or bracelets you might be wearing.
This small trick creates openness in your entire body shape and avoids rigid, unflattering lines. Have no props? No worries; just place your hands lightly on the hips for a poised look.
Extra ideas for props:
- Wide-brimmed hat (dramatic effect)
- Fedora (vintage vibe)
- Statement necklace (drawing the eye upwards and creating the illusion of a slimmer neck). For the best impact, choose a bold necklace with a long pendant.
c. Leg Elongation (for sitting)
Sitting elegantly is a great tactic: bend your knees at an angle, with one leg slightly in front of the other. The result is an impressively stacked effect that makes your legs seem longer! Also, point your toes away from the camera; it will further lengthen the leg lines.
Most importantly, cross your ankles at the calves. Do not cross your legs at the thighs — while comfortable, this can widen your hips in photos!
For Body Angles
a. The 45-Degree Rule
Forget about the usual, straight-on purpose! In the previous sections, we already explained how wider focal lengths (quite common in digital cameras) can distort and widen objects closer to the lens.
That’s why most professional models turn their bodies at a 45-degree angle for a slimmer silhouette. Such a sideways pose positions yourself in the area of the frame with less distortion, naturally creating a more accurate representation of your body figure.
b. Lean Back
In group photos, subtly lean back to appear slimmer than those closer to the camera.
However, be mindful of the background; leaning too far might place you against a less-than-appealing backdrop. Try to find a sweet spot where you appear proportionally thinner while still maintaining a natural pose within the composition.
For Clothing
a. Colors and Fabrics Matter
Solid dark colors are always associated with slimming for a reason. But aside from the shades, do not forget about the fabrics. You should opt for materials that drape softly and flow over your curves. Never stick with stiff fabrics; they will likely cling to your body and only highlight those unwanted bulges.
b. Vertical Stripes
It’s a known fact that vertical stripes can create an impressive lengthening effect — something you can maximize to your advantage!
For the best results, choose stripes with a thin width and good contrast between the stripes and background color. The vertical illusion tends to become stronger and make you seem way taller than in real life.
c. Fitted Silhouette
Baggy clothes are obviously a No, but that doesn’t mean you should squeeze yourself into something too tight. Our go-to is well-fitted clothing that flatters your natural curves, preferably clothes with tailored seams and darts to define your waist and hips.
Remember that at the end of the day, comfort shows. If you feel constricted, it will translate into a stiff and awkward posture in photos, which breaks the posture rule we already discussed above.
Bonus
a. Highlight Your Best Features
Draw everyone’s eyes to your most outstanding facial features so that any extra perceived fat looks less obvious.
For example, do you have a killer smile or great cheekbones? It’s time to let them shine through! Turn your head slightly towards the camera to show your best side, or angle your ¾ towards the camera to complement sharp cheekbones and create a more defined jawline.
b. Use Hair To Frame Your Face
Strategic hair placement is one of the best ways to emphasize your slim features.
Let loose waves cascade around your shoulders for a softening effect – especially for angular jaw lines – and draw attention to your eyes. You can tuck a loose strand behind your ear for a more mysterious vibe or pin back some hair to accentuate the cheekbones.
c. Elbow Shift
For a more relaxed and confident pose, try the “elbow shift.” Stand with your weight on one leg and slightly shift your elbow outwards (away from your body) to produce a more dynamic and interesting composition. Not to mention, it also exudes a casual confidence that translates well in photos.
d. High Angles Are Not As Bad As You Think
Don’t be afraid of high-angle shots! Photos taken from a slightly higher angle can lengthen your neck and torso (note: this also works well for full-body shots or ¾ length portraits). Ask the photographer to position themself slightly above you, but be mindful not to cut off the top of your head.
e. The “S” Curve
Another trick to achieve a flattering silhouette is the natural S-curve. Just shift your weight slightly to one hip and let your shoulder follow the curve; it will visually break up straight lines without much effort.
f. Practice Makes Perfect
Why panic on shooting day when you can practice your poses way earlier? Take your time to find what makes you feel best. A common trick is to stand in front of the mirror and try different positions and angles.
g. Candids Might Work In Your Favor
Sometimes, the most natural and relaxed poses are the most captivating. Instead of worrying about your pose, just be natural — smile genuinely, laugh with a friend, or twirl in a colorful dress. Let the photographer capture you having fun and enjoying yourself!
h. Confidence Is The Best Strategy
Bold body language is always perceived as attractive! When you feel confident, you will naturally project yourself better in photos — like standing tall with shoulders back and head held high — even without our advice.
See more: How To Make Your Camera Quality Better?
Conclusion
We have just explained why you seem to gain 10 pounds overnight in photos.
Good news: it’s just an illusion caused by camera angles and lighting, not your actual body size! Our tips above will hopefully help you improve the situation, but feel free to contact us if you still need more guidance.
