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A brief guide to taking no-filter selfies by shareen basyari

Natural Lighting

Photo Credits: Kaique Rocha

Taking pictures in an area that has poor lighting causes skin to look dull, but being in the right place at the right time makes a difference in the quality of your selfies. Go outside for your selfies–the light will make you look more alive and your skin glow. The best time to take pictures is at 10 a.m. and when the sun is setting (Golden Hour).

TIP: Avoid taking pictures in places where the light shines directly above your head–it can cast unflattering shadows on your face.

Press record

Not pressing the snap button at the right time? Record a video instead and take screenshots of your favorite poses afterwards.

  1. Place camera in front of you
  2. Press record
  3. Make different expressions and poses
  4. Take screenshots of certain frames in the video once you are done recording
TIP: If you want candid photos, don't be afraid to look away from the camera. Candids look more natural than posed selfies.

Colors > blur effects

If you take selfies during golden hour, blemishes tend to have a softened effect through the phone lens, so there is no need for an app that requires you to manually add the filter. Instead, use apps like VSCO to adjust the colors. This can eliminate dullness in photo quality.

TIP: Bright colors attract people easily. Turn up the contrast of your photo to your liking–it will stand out.

BONUS: Frame it

If you plan on posting your selfies on social media, using frames to piece the photos together adds a nice touch. I recommend apps like Unfold and April for vintage, abstract or minimalistic frames.

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