Noted fashion photographer Nigel Barker and runway diva coach extraordinaire Miss J Alexander, judges from the hit show America's Next Top Model (ANTM), were recently in town and visited Ayala Malls to share their ideas on beauty and fashion through a talk dubbed as Beyond the Surface. As Nigel and Miss J promoted their books The Beauty Equation and Follow the Model: Ms. J's Guide to Unleashing Presence, Poise, and Power, respectively, the two shared valuable insights from their experience in the beauty and fashion industry.
Among the tips they shared were about being comfortable in your own skin. When you find that inner confidence, it will show on the outside--and that's something you want, especially when you get in front of the camera on your wedding day. Below are just some of their tips to help you feel your most beautiful as you pose for photos.
Imagine Your Happy Place
Do you feel uncomfortable and awkward in front of the camera? Nigel suggests taking your mind to a particular place or moment that makes you truly happy. When you do, you're more likely to deliver a genuine smile--and that will show in the photos. Some of the things you can imagine are the time you said "yes" to your fiancé, or the first time you kissed.
Let Music Stir Your Emotions
Rely on music to boost your self confidence, especially when things get stressful on the big day. Nigel suggests playing in your head a song that makes you feel confident. Doing so can take you to a great memory and make you feel light and glorious. (An added tip: If you'll have a prenup or postnup shoot, bring along your iPod and play music during the session. Just let loose!)
Find Your Angle and Smize!
Miss J and Nigel suggest that as you pose for the camera, twist your hips at an angle to create curves--the last thing you want is a flat, one-dimensional look. They also advise that you practice how to "smize" or smile with your eyes. This is something they've constantly emphasized on ANTM, and it's a handy trick for perfecting a smile that doesn't involve flashing all your teeth. The key to this is to think of a happy thought, or imagine something or someone you love in front of you (your fiancé, of course!), and let your reaction and emotion speak through your eyes.
Be You
In his latest book, The Beauty Equation, Nigel zeroes in on what makes an individual truly beautiful. One of the elements that Nigel emphasized is the value of being yourself. He says that authenticity is key in the beauty equation because it is about being your best self. Beauty is about using your story and motivation, and letting your passion shine through. Moreover, Miss J adds that you should own your inner beauty and celebrate your uniqueness. By embracing your beauty and your story, you'll be able to present a genuine you whether or not you're posing for photos.