Why People Think They “Take a Terrible Photo” – And How to Change That

“I take a terrible photo.” A statement for the past.

As a professional photographer, the team at Freedom Photography has had the privilege of photographing thousands of people over the years. One sentiment they hear repeatedly is, “I take a terrible photo.” After years of experience, they’ve come to understand why so many people feel this way—it’s because they’ve never seen a photo of themselves that they truly like. But what’s the real reason behind this?

Usually, the photos people see of themselves are taken when they’re not prepared or ready for the shot. How many times have people been caught off guard by a friend who says, “Hey, look!” as they snap a photo just as the person turns around? The immediate reaction is often one of discomfort: “Oh my God, please delete that!” This moment, while common, sheds light on why many people don’t enjoy being photographed. Most of us don’t look our best when we’re not expecting to be in front of the camera, which is why professional photographers take care to set their subjects up for success.

Setting Subjects Up for Success

One of the biggest mistakes a photographer can make is taking a photo without properly directing their subjects. Great photography isn’t just about capturing a fleeting moment—it’s about positioning people in a way that highlights their best features and makes them feel at ease. At Freedom Photography, the team uses specific principles to ensure every shot showcases their subjects in the best possible light.

Here are a few key tips that help achieve this:

1. The Eyes and Lips Principle
   A simple yet effective technique is aligning the eyes of people in the shot, especially when photographing groups. By making sure their eyes are level with each other, the image feels balanced and harmonious. It creates a natural flow that is easy on the eyes, making the overall composition more pleasing.
2. Close the Gaps
   A common mistake is allowing too much space between people, especially in group shots. While it may feel a little awkward at first, having subjects stand closer together eliminates gaps and makes the photo feel more cohesive. The closer the subjects, the more connected they appear, and this adds warmth to the image. Though it may feel strange at first, it’s the photographer’s role to guide people into positions that create the most visually appealing results.
3. Chin Forward and Down
   A technique championed by renowned photographer Sue Bryce, this simple adjustment makes a big difference in how people look in photos. By asking the subject to bring their chin slightly forward and down, it defines their jawline, reduces the appearance of a double chin, and generally results in a more flattering portrait. When subjects feel good about how they look, they’re more likely to enjoy the photo.

Improving Photography Through Practice and Direction

At the end of the day, photography is all about direction. A skilled photographer doesn’t simply click the shutter—they direct the scene, positioning their subjects to highlight their natural beauty. By incorporating these principles—such as aligning eyes, closing the gaps, and using the chin-forward technique—photographers can create images that clients will love.

With time and practice, photographers will become more confident in their ability to guide their subjects, resulting in a noticeable improvement in their photos. As a result, clients will leave the shoot with stunning images they’ll want to keep forever.

The team at Freedom Photography understands that creating great photos isn’t just about capturing the moment; it’s about making sure each subject feels comfortable, confident, and seen. When photographers follow these key techniques, they’re more likely to produce images that are not only technically excellent but also emotionally resonant.