Self-picture

[summerstar]

Hi all,

My favorite subjects to shoot are beaches (I live near the Lake Michigan coast), my dogs, and cityscapes. But, I have to admit I'm addicted to trying out the self-timer on my Kodak V530... at times just for fun, and other times for purpose. I do some retail event work that sometimes requires me to send in photos of myself and the display, etc. and sometimes my best option is just to use the self-timer.

Anyway, I am not claiming to be good at this, but I am aiming to get better. I'm not much of a smiler when it comes to photos, and, can't say I've mastered anything about lighting either. I'm interested in your impressions and constructive suggestions for a better self-photo --

just me on a typical day.

[jetrim]

For a 3/4 body shot you have the camera at the right height to avoid distortion, if you want head shots, move the camera up level with your head.

In this shot I would suggest
*tilt your head down some (nostrils are *never* photogenic )
*stand a little further out from the wall (to remove harsh shadow line from flash)
*take the "daily special" sign down and rotate camera left a bit (always pay attention to ALL the elements in the frame)
*wear a shirt that's a different color than the background
*hook your thumbs in your pockets or something to give some separation between your arms and torso...

Work on those, then we can tackle lighting :lol:

[Frog]

Jetrim has given good advice.
I would look for a different background altogether. Removing the sign will help but then you have that wall corner. Find a place in the wall where there will be no distractions.
I think you'd do better with just a head and shoulders shot.