How to take a selfie you don’t hate

Let’s be honest: most people dislike photos of themselves. And yet, we keep taking selfies—sometimes because we have to, sometimes because we want to remember where we were, and sometimes because there’s no one else around to hold the camera.

The good news? A great selfie has very little to do with angles you learned on social media and everything to do with light and comfort. When people say they “aren’t photogenic,” what they usually mean is that they don’t feel relaxed. And discomfort shows up immediately on camera.

First, find the light. Natural light is your best friend. Stand near a window or go outside and face the light—not directly into harsh sun, but into soft, even illumination. Light coming from slightly above eye level is especially flattering and helps soften shadows naturally.

Next, step back—literally. Holding the camera too close distorts features and exaggerates angles. If you can, use the front-facing camera with a little distance, or prop your phone and use a timer. Giving yourself space not only improves the photo, it gives you a moment to breathe, which always helps.

Eye level matters. Shooting slightly above eye level tends to be more flattering than shooting from below. Keep your shoulders relaxed, shift your weight, and don’t overthink your expression. If you feel stiff, take a second, look away, then come back to the camera. Small resets make a big difference.

Backgrounds count, too. A clean, simple background keeps attention where it belongs—on you. Busy or distracting surroundings pull focus away and add visual noise, especially in a small frame.

And here’s the most important tip of all: stop judging the photo while you’re taking it. Take a few, choose the one that feels most like you, and move on. Selfies don’t need to be flawless. They just need to be honest.

A good selfie isn’t about looking younger, thinner, or more polished. It’s about capturing yourself as you are—in the light, in the moment, and in the story you’re living.

Lucy Rosen is a Lowcountry-based writer and bird photographer who observes the natural world through a patient, thoughtful lens. Follow her work on Instagram @LucyGRosen or visit www.lucygrosenphotography.com.