10 tips: How to take portrait pictures yourself

Getting portraits done professionally can be expensive. However, you can actually take great portraits at home with the equipment you already have.

Here are our ten tips for taking self-portraits at home:

#1

Lighting is key when taking pictures, so make sure to have proper lighting. Do not use background lighting, as this will darken your face. Use natural light instead.

Stand by a window, when taking portraits, but do not use the window as a background. Also, avoid standing under a lamp, as this will create shadows.

#2

Consider your hair, clothes and accessories (jewellery, etc.). Your clothes cannot be low cut or put on backwards, and they should reflect the purpose of your portrait (if applying for a job at a bank, you should wear clothing that reflects this, such as a suit, etc.). Consider what you want to signal.

#3

You probably have several good pictures to choose from, but make sure to edit the portrait you choose and adjust the colour and lighting, but do not use filters. Make sure you look like you in the portrait.

Get inspiration for editing your pictures here

#4

Make sure the upper part of your chest is visible in the portrait, but do not take the portrait, by simply holding your phone in front of you and taking a selfie. Also, do not use crooked angles. Do tilt your head a bit, to get a variety of profile portraits. Make sure both your eyes are visible and avoid double chins. Look approachable and smile naturally.

#5

Use a natural background. If taking your portrait indoors, remember to keep a distance to the wall, so you do not look pressed against it. Avoid standing in front of an empty, white wall, as that could look a bit sterile. If possible, choose a wall with a bit of colour or a background with a simple colour scheme.

#6

Take your picture horizontally, so you can better crop it to fit various platforms, such as LinkedIn. Make sure to have some space around your head, so it is not too close to the edge of your portrait.

#7

Use the best possible resolution. Make sure you check the settings on your phone or camera.

Learn more on how to adjust the resolution on your iPhone for optimal portraits

#8

Get a friend to help you take your portrait. Together you can try out different angles and backgrounds. You can also use a phone holder or tripod that is easy to move around.

Get tips on how to take portrait photos with a friend

#9

Consider using props, such as posing with a coffee cup, a notebook, a pair of glasses, etc. If you are using props, make sure they are subtle and do not remove focus from your face.

#10

Be creative! You can do a lot just with your phone, a good backdrop, good lighting and a great natural smile. Play around with different angles, settings and backgrounds. You are sure to end up with a great result and several portrait pictures.