How to take pictures of yourself in the mirror

How to Take Mirror Selfies | Tips for Taking Good Mirror Selfies

My theory is this: If you're going to display your vanity to the world, you might as well do it from the best angle. And nowhere else is vanity displayed to such perfection than with the mirror selfie. We see the mirror selfie everywhere: Shirtless guys' Tinder profiles. Millennials and Gen Z's WFH outfits on Instagram. My own photo album. I have, by no means, gotten my Ph.D. in this matter, but since my friends have nominated me for this lesson in how to pose in front of the looking glass, I figured I would share my knowledge, starting from the basics.

But first, here is 13-year-old Grand Duchess Anastasia (yes that Anastasia of Romanov legend) in possibly the first mirror selfie known to man in 1913. Gotta give the princess credit for paving the way.

(Image credit: Wikimedia Commons)

Now, for the actual advice...

Choose an angled mirror, and shoot from the chest up.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

As you'll notice here, my legs look super long. But are they actually this long? Let me ask you this: Would the last scene of Call Me By Your Name be as gut-wrenching without that shot of Timmy Chalamet? Negative. Angles are everything. Shooting from the stomach up on a slanted mirror will create the illusion that you are model-esque, even if you aren't (I’m 5'6 and I have an extra long torso). That is why many store mirrors are angled. Have you ever gone home and tried on that Reformation dress only to wonder why you looked better in the fitting room? This is why.

Stretch your neck, tilt your head, and jut your chin out.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

Chugged three glasses of wine last night? We got you. Ate all your quarantine snacks in one sitting? No sweat. Put on some bronzer and cock your head. You'll look like you're flirting with your reflection and inviting a vampire bite, all while being too aloof to notice your jawline can cut glass. TikTok's jawline check challenge is based on the miracle of a jutted out chin. It'll feel awkward when you do it, but you will look great. (This is non-discriminatory to the double-chin, which I deeply, deeply respect and has kept my neck warm through many winters.)

S marks the spot—or, "find your silhouette."

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

Sex appeal leads from the hips. Ever seen The Birth of Venus ? Even though she's demure, what with her hair covering her privates, she's undeniably alluring. It's because she's making the S curve with her body. Botticelli knew what's up. When you stand straight up and down, there is less invitation to look. Think of when someone is described as "square." It means their personality is devoid ebbs and flows—crescendo-less, if you will. The human body has crescendos too; they're the roundest parts of your silhouette.

The human body has crescendos too; it's the roundest parts of your silhouette.

Cut out your camera.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

You may be off-centered, but at least it's interesting. It almost looks like you didn't take your own selfie. And what a sweet illusion it is to appear as though you have a traveling photojournalist accompanying you. One who documents you looking fabulous while doing the most mundane of things, like sitting there with a cup of coffee and a book all the while thinking about butter pecan or the resurgence of mom jeans .

Flirt with thyself in broad daylight.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

Go ahead: Wave at yourself. Maybe if Narcissus did it, he would have realized it was his reflection he was staring at and not an object of desire. It also helps if the background is well-lit, but not in direct sunlight (it will blow your features out), and you match your environment. One color scheme (greens + yellows, blue + purples) pleases the eye and mother nature is always soothing.

Be a little messy.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

True illusion is perfection. Don't make your bed in the morning. Don't brush your hair. Scatter your clothes like your racing anxieties and take the picture. Mirror selfies don't have to scream LOOK AT ME. That they so often do has made social media seems like a collective cry for help. The goal is to invite the look, but not beg for likes. You can love yourself without them.

The goal is the invite the look, but not beg for likes. You can love yourself without them.

Take a picture with your mirror in the dark.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

This requires a little bit of a setup, but if you can stand your phone and work your self-timer, you can take a mirror selfie next to the actual mirror. Get prepped and stand up straight. So what if you did it yourself? Be proud of yourself. The best part about this is that it'll create a spark in the photo where the flash went off. It's Starry Night without the Van Gogh. I am very much stretching. The result is still sweet.

Conceal your face.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

Sometimes the best expressions are not seen. Sitting will automatically relax you. And if you're one of those people who freezes when the camera is on you—even if it's your own selfie-cam—this is a solution that won't make you look like you’re hiding. Shoes are optional.

You better shape up.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

Round mirrors are the unsung heroes of the mirror selfie. Circles make you feel enclosed, protected, whole (psychologically, this is true—the phrase "full circle" means leading back to Source. In this instance, you are Source). Think of it as though the spotlight is on you.

Smile big and surround yourself with color.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

The power of the smile is a trope for a reason. The bigger you smile, the happier you look. And happy people just don't take bad selfies. That was a Legally Blonde reference that went too far, but I truly think smiling will change your mood and posture, both essential aspects of a good picture.

Give yourself the side-eye.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

Sometimes the best shapes are from the side. Think vintage sartorial photos like this and this . Then exaggerate it by wearing something with volume. I like gauchos for this reason. From the front you look like a tulip, but from the side you look like a '70s fashion ad. Highly recommend. Would do again.

Lastly, be present.

(Image credit: Wanyi Jiang)

In the 1996 film The Mirror Has Two Faces , Rose (played by Queen Barbara Streisand) says, "Myth or manipulation, we all want to fall in love. That experience makes us feel completely alive. Our everyday reality is shattered, and we are flung into the heavens. It may only last a moment, an hour, but that doesn't diminish its value. We're left with memories we treasure for the rest of our lives." To sum it up: A good picture is a memory of you at your most present. So make it beautiful and make it last.

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27 Mirror Selfie Tips and Poses to Try With Your Phone or Camera

@emmachamberlain / @dualipaInstagram

Why is it that every time you run into someone you know you're underdressed and unprepared, but every time your hair, makeup, and nails are done and you've pulled together an iconic outfit, there's no one around to see it?! Instead of letting a perfectly good style moment go to waste, take a mirror selfie so you can post it for everyone to see. Unlike a regular selfie that can only capture parts of your look, a mirror selfie allows you to get creative angles and full shots that include your shoes, bags, and accessories. The best part? The person taking your photo won't complain when you make them retake it a million times to get the perfect shot because that person is you.

Because mirror selfies can easily end up looking like '03 Myspace pics, let us help you out with some suggestions. Grab your floor-length or makeup mirror and your phone, and start scrolling for ideas. Even if you don't have access to a mirror, you can still get the same effect with a faux mirror selfie if you've got a backup camera and a ring light with a camera holder. See? Told you we had lots of suggestions! From poses to props, we've gathered 27 of the best mirror selfie tips and inspiration photos below, so go ahead and get to shooting your thirst traps—and don't forget to pick out a baddie caption to go with it.

The Shirt-Clutch Selfie Pose

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A post shared by Zendaya (@zendaya)

Consider this the ultimate mirror-selfie pose for when your look is comfy and casual but you want to make it cute, too. It's also a great little trick if you don't know what to do with your awkward other hand.

The Mirror Selfie Carousel

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A post shared by Lizzo (@lizzobeeating)

Let's face it, standing alone in front of a mirror (much like standing alone in a photo) is weird and uncomfortable. Play around with your angles so you're not just standing there, and take a whole bunch so you definitely find a couple you like.

The Half-Face Selfie

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A post shared by Megan Fox (@meganfox)

The easiest way to a little mystery to your mirror selfie is by covering most—but not quite all—of your face with your phone.

The Massive Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by ♔Winnie Harlow♔ (@winnieharlow)

Hotel lobby, dressing room, waiting area—anytime you see wall-to-wall mirrors, you've gotta take advantage of the moment. FYI: The further away you take the photo, the more massive the mirror will feel.

The Off-Center Selfie

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A post shared by DUA LIPA (@dualipa)

Even something as simple as shifting your phone over just a few inches can take a straightforward photo (pun intended) and make it feel way more interesting.

The Mirror-Within-a-Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by paloma elsesser (@palomija)

I will never not be obsessed with watching my reflection in a mirror that faces another mirror. If you share those same sentiments, take a pic next time you find one of these mesmerizing setups.

The Lit-From-Above Selfie

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A post shared by Maddie (@madelyncline)

If the overhead lighting is doing you no favors, tilt your head back and let the lights and shadows hit you in all the right places for a dramatic look like this.

The Non-Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by hailee steinfeld (@haileesteinfeld)

So *technically* this is a sliding door and not a mirror, but anything that shows your reflection can do the job just fine. And TBH, this silhouette shot with a scenic background is cooler than any photo you could take inside with a mirror, so there.

The Toe-Point Pose

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A post shared by Jasmine Tookes (@jastookes)

Next time you take a full-length photo in the mirror, pop your leg in the front and point your toe. Just try it. It'll be your new go-to pose, promise.

The From-the-Waist-Up Selfie Pose

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A post shared by HEIR JORDYN (@jordynwoods)

Sometimes your look is so good, you need to show off the details. And when a full-length shot just doesn't do it justice, take your selfie up close from the waist-up or waist-down.

The Cutesy Couple Selfie

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A post shared by dixie (@dixiedamelio)

If you and your person always do the same side-by-side pose with your arms around each other's waists, try something different for a change, like this sweet mirror selfie.

The Getting Ready Glam Selfie

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A post shared by Sydney Sweeney (@sydney_sweeney)

Who can resist a selfie when they've spent the time doing their makeup and hair??? Include a glimpse of your makeup setup in the corner of the shot for a less posey product photo.

The Pet Selfie Pose

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A post shared by Lucy Hale (@lucyhale)

Puppies = instant likes. If your selfie needs a little extra something, grab the pooches for your pictures.

The Outdoor Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by Normani (@normani)

Remember when everyone on TikTok was trying this gem of a photo idea for perfect lighting? Carry your mirror outside and either place it on the ground and tilt it toward the sky to get some clouds in the background, or just find the right spot to give you all the good natural light.

The Moody Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by Ariana Grande (@arianagrande)

To recreate this dim-lit selfie, use just the tiniest glow from a lamp or a candle and angle your light source so it only hits you from the side. So dark and dreamy!

This Side Profile Selfie Pose

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A post shared by emma chamberlain (@emmachamberlain)

Go on, show off that good side! Whether you want to highlight your hair accessories, ear party, or bag, the side pose does it all.

The Nonchalant Selfie

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A post shared by Hailey Rhode Baldwin Bieber (@haileybieber)

No one has to know that you have 100+ outtakes in your camera roll, and with a pose this effortless and causal, they wouldn't suspect a thing.

The Phone-Case-Cover-Your-Face Pose

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A post shared by Kendall (@kendalljenner)

Not every selfie has to feature your face! If you want to keep the focus on your look and not your looks, position your phone front and center.

The Moving Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by LAURA HARRIER (@lauraharrier)

Who says a selfie has to be a still photo?! If you switch to video instead, you don't even have to stress over one single pose. Make 'em all!

The Seated, Side Angle Selfie

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A post shared by ∴ WILLOW ∴ (@willowsmith)

When a straight-on photo just doesn't feel right, try taking it from the side instead. Pro-tip: Take a photo burst and move around so you get that perfect shot that shows the right angles and doesn't look awkward.

The Bathroom Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by @lanacondor

Sometimes the bathroom lighting is far superior to all other lighting. In times like those, capture it with a selfie. Bonus points if it's also a cute bathroom like this.

The Shoefie Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by Addison Rae (@addisonraee)

When your look is all about your shoes but a full-length mirror is nowhere to be found, put your best foot forward in a raised-leg pose like this.

The Car Mirror Selfie

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A post shared by Priyanka (@priyankachopra)

Ah, yes. The ultimate road trip selfie! Whether you're driving down the highway or stopped on the side of the road, car mirrors always make for great photo ops.

The Frame Within a Frame

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A post shared by A S H L E Y G R A H A M (@ashleygraham)

If the mirror you're using is worth capturing, take a step back and include the frame of the mirror inside the photo for a mirror selfie that shows off your look and your home decor.

The Elevator Reflection Selfie

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A post shared by Duckie Thot (@duckiethot)

Put a finger down if you've ridden an elevator until everyone else hops off so you can have a minute alone or with your friends to get a good outfit photo in the reflection. If you didn't put a finger down, you've gotta try it sometime. Makes for great photos.

The Classic Camera Selfie

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A post shared by icy bae (@saweetie)

Before there was the forward-facing camera, selfies were limited to turning the camera around and hoping for the best or mirror shots like this. Use your real camera to take a still photo or switch it to video to fully capture the setting.

The From-the-Floor Selfie

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A post shared by Kourtney Kardashian (@kourtneykardash)

There are two types of people: those who like floor-length mirrors so they can stand and see their whole outfit, and those who like floor-length mirrors so they can sit on the floor in front of them and get ready. This is the perfect selfie for the latter type.

Brooke Shunatona Brooke Shunatona is a contributing writer for Cosmopolitan.com.

How to take a great selfie in the mirror at home: a short guide - HEROINE

In conditions of self-isolation, selfies in the mirror are almost the only option to take a decent photo for your social networks, and not the worst. This method is good because it allows you to have complete control over everything from pose to lighting and camera angle. We will tell you how to take the perfect photo in the mirror.

Understand what you want to show

The posture will depend on what exactly you want to emphasize. To show the image in its entirety, you will need a full-length photo. The simplest and most aesthetic position is standing: spread your legs at a short distance, push one slightly forward, and put your free hand from the phone on your waist, in your pocket or under the elbow of the other hand. nine0009

For those who want to focus on shoes, you should try a sitting pose: you can squat on a half-side, move your legs and stretch your hand free from the phone to your knee. It is important to keep your back straight. In this pose, all the details of the image from the hairstyle to the shoes fit well into the frame.

Zoom in closer to accentuate makeup. It is best to hold the phone a little to the side at face level. By lowering the camera a little lower, you can visually make the figure slimmer, but make sure that the head in this position does not seem too big. nine0003

Experiment with the direction of your gaze

There is no clear recommendation where to look when taking a selfie in the mirror. The best way to decide is to do it empirically. A very popular photo in which a person looks at the phone: it helps to distract from facial expressions and not to think that smiling at yourself in the mirror is somehow strange. For the same purpose, you can try to just look to the side so that the face turns out to be a little detached. Those who are good at facial expressions should rehearse looking directly at the camera through the mirror - if everything goes well, such a selfie will look spectacular. nine0003

Try to keep the background neutral

A neutral background is especially important if you want to show off an outfit rather than an apartment setting. Variegated shades, an abundance of details in the background will distract from the main thing. It’s worth thinking about the background even at the stage of placing a mirror - it’s good if it is located opposite a plain light wall or cabinet. As a last resort, ensure at least order and a minimalistic appearance of the background: remove small things, household items.

Provide even lighting

Good light is the most important condition for a good photo. The main sources of light in the apartment - a window and a lamp - can both help and harm. If the window is located behind you, it is better to cover the curtains so that your figure does not seem too dark. And a high-mounted lamp can create unnecessary glare under the nose and chin. Ideally, place the light source to the side or behind a mirror.

Read related: Send nudes: how to safely share candid photos

Add a shot of light with apps

Providing good light in a room is not always possible, especially when it comes to the bathroom. Therefore, even if you don’t really like editing photos, it’s worth mastering a few applications. With Snapseed, Afterlight, Lightroom or any of the others, you can easily compensate for the lack of light or even out it.

Pay attention to the details

When taking a full-length mirror selfie, it's easy to miss the details that can spoil the whole photo. For example, objects in the background that ludicrously connect with your body parts: a vase growing from your head, a curtain thickening your leg. Or folds on clothes that cause unaesthetic associations. Or an overly personal subject in the background that can become the butt of jokes. nine0009

At first glance, such little things can be barely distinguishable, but among subscribers there are often lovers to see the picture in small things. Banal inattention fails even experienced Instagram divas and celebrities, so take a good look at the photo before posting it.

The mirror must be perfectly clean

The main rule of a selfie in the mirror is a perfectly clean surface. A couple of prints in the corner of the mirror or dust on it will instantly make the most successful and fashionable photo untidy. So do not be lazy to once again walk on it with a windshield wiper. nine0003

If you need photos for a professional account, consider buying an original mirror. When a selfie in a home mirror is not just entertainment, but also an important part of a professional reputation, it is worth acquiring something special and decorative. A voluminous or fancy frame will turn a simple selfie almost into a picture and can become a hallmark of your image.

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How to capture the perfect selfie in the mirror

Find your best pose

When it comes to showing off your new look, the position you're standing in front of the mirror is often the most important. You definitely don't want a selfie where you're standing at attention - it can make you look old-fashioned in the picture. There are three basic positions to follow when taking a selfie in the mirror. nine0003

Extend your leg. This pose is considered a safe bet when all other poses have failed. This pose makes the body look slimmer and also makes the outfit look good. And don't forget to expose your sock!

Stand with your feet apart. A full-length selfie can't go wrong, especially if you want to show off the whole image. Just remember to spread your legs a little to the sides, thereby creating a smooth curve that flatters the image. nine0003

Cross your legs and bend your knee . The classic cross-legged pose, where you stand with your legs crossed one over the other, sometimes with your feet touching. We offer a slightly different variation. Cross your legs with one knee slightly bent, with the toe of the bent leg pointing towards the floor. This pose is especially flattering for midi and maxi skirts. And the bent knee, taken forward towards the mirror, makes the legs look longer and slimmer.

Select phone location

One of the most advantageous places to place the phone is a little to the side right next to the face. But if you want to look slimmer, put your phone close to a mirror and place it under your chin. This posture has pros and cons. Due to this arrangement, the body looks smaller, but the head seems unnaturally large.

Keep the proportions

Here are some wise tips to keep your head from looking big and your legs from looking fat. nine0003

Focus on the waist. Add a belt, tie a shirt around your waist, or wear a jacket that reaches to your hips.

Remember your hair. Loose hair sometimes weighs down the image when it comes to a photo in an Instagram mini-frame. So for such photos it is better to take the hair up. A high hairstyle lengthens the body and does not block the details of the image.

Avoid distractions

You don't need anything to distract attention from you. The key to solving the problem is cleanliness. nine0003

Make sure the background is clean. Don't forget to tidy up and unpack the pile of clothes in the background. It will be very embarrassing if all the visitors to your page see the mess in your room.

Wipe the mirror. If you take a selfie in front of a dirty mirror, the result will be disastrous - strange stains and stains on your face and clothes are inevitable, so make sure the mirror is clean before taking a photo.

Don't think about facial expressions

Smiling awkwardly at yourself in the mirror is not the best idea for this type of photo (and people passing by won't look at you weirdly). Sometimes the best way to take the perfect selfie is to forget about facial expressions, smirk a little, and look at your phone's camera rather than at your reflection in the mirror.