The News Wheel
No Comments

Picture-Perfect Tips for a No-Cringe Driver’s License Photo

Decrease Font Size Increase Font Size Text Size Print This Page

During an appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” the incredible actress and singer Julie Andrews revealed her secret (advice she received long ago) for capturing a naturally beautiful picture-perfect smile. She said forget the cheese, and instead say “money.”

Surprising advice from Mary Poppins, yes, but try it. Saying “money” is no more ridiculous than saying “cheese” before a photo op, and although the word and thought of cheese might bring a smile to a lot of people’s faces, money probably triggers bigger smiles for even more people.

Andrews’ advice is good to remember for any Kodak moment, but especially when faced with the most dreaded one of all—the day you get your driver’s license photo taken—you know, the one that will stay with you for years and years complete with bad lighting and snapped after a loooong day of standing in line.

Yet, against all odds and obstacles the Bureau or Department of Motor Vehicles throws at you, it is possible to take a flattering driver’s license photo.

According to More.com writer Vicki Santillano, opt for clothing in neutral tones and save the loud patterns for another day. Same goes for makeup choices—she advises sticking to your normal makeup routine and save experimenting with a new shade of eye shadow or lipstick for a night out.

Simple is best when it comes to hair, too. Santillano said overcomplicated or over-producted hair will look odd in the picture–since wait times at the DMV vary day-to-day, your hair might end up looking quite different than what you had in mind by the time you smile for the camera. Santillano also recommends carting a mini hairbrush or comb for a pre-picture touch up.

If you’re really not ready for your close-up, Santillano suggests trying to “angle your body away from the camera to create a flattering angle. Raise your chin slightly—not too much or your nostrils will become the stars of the shot—to make under-eye dark circles inconspicuous. Faces tilted downward can create multiple chins, so remember that when you step in front of the lens.”

With these tips in mind you are ready for a great shot—say, “money!”

News Source: Hello Giggles, More