NederlandsAre you looking for a job? Then you naturally want to present yourself as well as possible, so that you are invited for a job interview . You make your first impression with your CV and motivation letter, but don't forget that a good photo can also be decisive. Is your photo professional enough? No worries. You really don't need an expensive photographer to look good. We are happy to give you useful tips to easily a good photo with your phone.
1. Background
Choose an even background, think of a white wall. White provides a fresh and soothing look. For a professional photo, it is generally recommended to use calm colors, such as white, gray or pastels. Do you prefer a busy background? That is also possible. But make sure that the details in the background don't distract from your face. You can easily solve this by blurring the background. How do you do this with your phone? Easy. Make sure to increase the distance between yourself and the background by walking five steps away from the background. The distance between you and the phone must remain short enough to be able to take a portrait photo.
2. Contrast
Find the right contrast. Contrast is the difference between two opposites, for example light and dark or between two colors. Are you wearing a black blouse? Then don't choose a black background, you will get the effect that your head will float - so unless you are applying at a haunted house, it is advisable to go for a lighter background. When choosing the right contrast, consider your hair color, your skin tone, the color of your outfit and the background.
3. Attitude
The best thing is if you don't stand directly in front of the camera, but slightly turn your shoulder. So stand a little diagonally in front of the camera, this also gives you a natural posture. Make sure you don't cross your arms and keep an open posture.
4. Look into the camera
Make sure you look into the camera to create an open attitude. Focus on your eyes, this is an important part of the photo. By looking kindly into the camera you make the photo more expressive and pleasant. Also don't forget to put on a nice smile!
5. Exposure
Leave the flash off. The flash creates hard light and hard shadows. Daylight is always best, so make the most of it. Always face the light source with your face for the best effect.
6. Post-processing
You don't need professional editing programs at your disposal to spice up your photo. You can often give your photo a nice touch up with Instagram. Never set the filters to 100%, usually 30% is enough to maintain the natural look of a photo. Leave out the exaggerated filters. At Instagram, I recommend using a filter like Clarendon or Aden. You can also slightly touch up details such as the exposure and contrast.
Furthermore, VSCO is a nice app to give your photo a light touch. The VSCO app is similar to Instagram and basically works the same. Keep the edits to a minimum and do not remove wrinkles or moles, for example, because they simply belong to you. Rather just create a realistic picture of yourself, then they will recognize you when you come for an interview. †