Six "Look Incredible In Winter Party Photos" Tips

Do you swear you're not photogenic and always look old, sick or drunk (even when you're not) in party photos? Here are a few tips to help you look incredible instead of inebriated.

1. Wear color.  Lots of indoor colors can make you look washed out, especially if you're in black.  It's not that you can't wear black (it's slimming.) but be sure to add a colorful accessory. (Though, as a rule avoid patterns.)
2. Look happy!  "The happier you look, the prettier the picture," says Olympus spokes-person and photographer Maki Kawakita.  Apply blush to your cheeks and tuck your hair behind your ears to avoid covering your face and you'll look more cheerful and fresh. And, putting your tongue behind your teeth will relax your face.
   
3. Blot, don't powder. Reapplying too many layers of powder can age you.  Instead, blot oil with mattifying sheets.
4. Blend foundation. You don't want a face that looks like it's on the wrong body because it's paler than your neck. To prevent this blunder, blend your makeup at your jawline and dust a bronzing powder over your face, neck and chest.
5. Natural expression.  To avoid looking like a deer in the headlights, "try not to stand straight in front of the camera," says Kawakita.  Instead, position yourself at a 45-degree angle and look just above the camera .  Another bonus? You look thinner and have better posture if you're looking upward.
6. Open your eyes.  If you tend to close your eyes in photos, try closing your eyes, then opening them slowly just before the photo is taken.

Source:  Nov. 23, 2009 issue Woman's World