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How to Select the Best Photos

First of all, to select good photos, you must first of all have photos to select. Book a photoshoot with me first and then come back to this blog post.

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At First Glance

Okay, now you have a bunch of photos to choose from. It’s overwhelming, I know. Spend some time to just browse through all of the photos and take note of the ones you like at first glance.

Aim for Variety

As you make your initial selections, aim to have variety amongst your favorites. Select a few photos from each “look” (i.e. outfit, backdrop, pose, expression, angle, crop, etc.).

Stay in Focus

Sometimes, blurry pics are a vibe. Emphasis on sometimes. If you are out of focus, or more specifically, if your face is out of focus, just let it go. And no, it most likely can’t be fixed in post.

Lighting

Lighting is the most important part of a photograph, so when making your selections, make sure that the image, especially its main subject (you), is not overexposed (too bright) or underexposed (too dark).

Composition

Select photos that have good overall composition - look out for any major/unfixable distractions, unflattering/awkward angles or cropping, etc. and avoid selecting photos with those kinds of flaws.

Know Yourself

If you have a decent understanding of your best features, angles, poses, expressions, etc. select images that clearly highlight them. And if you don’t, I encourage you to experiment in the mirror or with selfies, or experiment during a photoshoot with the guidance of a pro!

Some Things Can Be Fixed in Post…

...but not everything. Don’t give up hope on a photo you really like if it has some flaws, but also be prepared to hear the words, “No, this can’t be fixed in post.” Just consult with your photographer and/or photo editor to see what’s possible.

Ojene Basmadjian