What's more reliable: what the mirror tells or pictures?

Question

So I look like me in the mirror but in pictures I look like a totally different person. Everyone else looks the same in pics as they do in person but I think I look different, like the camera only captures the bad things (i.e. makes my dark circles look darker, face looks weirder idk)

Answer 1

I think it goes two ways.  Our eyes don't always tell the truth and can be fooled.  Same with a camera.  But I think generally looking in a mirror is the most reliable.

A camera is a little more complicated because it's converting a three dimensional object (our body) onto a two dimensional thing (paper.)  Also lighting, angle and lots of other variables affect how the lens sees things.  Things like poses, make-up and props further can blur the picture.  Dark circles can be made darker with lighting and head tilts, same with face--you can make it look wider and rounder if the lens is just pushed into your face, plus your nose will look huge.  You can look like you have Barbie legs if the photographer gets on the ground and shoots up at you.

If this really bothers you, then get someone you trust to take a bunch of pictures and experiment with what looks good for you--body poses, head tilts, etc you can get ideas from magazines and photography books in the library.  Then you'll have an idea of what works for you in front of the camera.  Have a pro take your pics, s/he will help pose you into what is most flattering, you can ask questions and get guidance.

You look good in a mirror, you can look good on camera!  Best wishes!

Answer 2

same thing happens to me. ):  

Answer 3

I don't know which is more reliable. but I have the same syndrome going on. I look like brad pitt in the mirror, then in a pic I look like Brad Schit. HA! kidding

but I really do look different (In my opinion) in pictures.

when you find the answer let me know

Answer 4

That's a toughy. I'm photogenic and look nothing like I do in photos... most of the time. When I look in the mirror I see something horrible but if I just look down at my body I see something different and not so bad. For example, my legs and arms look HUGE in the mirror (to me) but when I just look down at them, they look ok.

Answer 5

Hi SoCal

The mirror and the pic are one and the same. When you look in the mirror and you look good. You are probably looking at an angle and the head slightly turn.

When you take a pic of yourself, take a photo of each side. You will notice that one side looks better than the other. So, show that side of your side in photos.

That is why models, when we shoot them, they never take a head on shot but slightly sideways.