Get your cameras ready, because June 21st is National Selfie Day. To celebrate, we’ll give you tips on how to sharpen your selfie game and spotlight some perfect selfie examples.
Be Authentic
Don’t overthink how you look. Don’t force a smile or strike a pose that isn’t true to the moment. If you’re having a good time, that’ll shine through—no need for fake smiles.
The best selfies feature relatability. Remember, the selfie is the most personal type of photo—why not make it honest? Being performative isn’t always a problem, though, as long as you don’t take yourself too seriously when you’re striking a dramatic pose.
Get the Proper Angle
Generally, holding the camera slightly above eye level gives the most flattering angle. Play around with where you are in the photo. You don’t always have to be smack dab in the middle. Sometimes photos look better when the subject is slightly off-center—or even way off to one side of the frame. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Lighting is Key
It’s usually best to avoid overhead lighting or backlighting… unless you’re going for silhouette vibes. For the best indoor selfies, use ring lights to get even, balanced lighting. If you want beautiful natural light, the best times of day are sunrise and sunset–golden hour.
Celebrity Selfie Perfection
One of Instagram’s most-liked selfies ever is this 2017 iconic photo of Selena Gomez and her then-boyfriend, The Weeknd, at Coachella. The internet obviously loved it for the star power, but notice how it follows all the selfie rules: soft, natural lighting, genuine expressions, and a slightly off-center subject.
And the Classic Gorilla Selfie?
This viral selfie features a Congolese park ranger standing next to two gorillas who appear to be enthusiastically posing for the camera. The unexpected virality of the photo helped raise awareness for the conservation work protecting mountain gorillas being done at places like Virunga National Park, where the photo was taken. Notice how effortless the ranger’s expression is. One reason this photo probably took off is that it just looks like a guy casually chilling with some gorillas.
Whether you’re posting for fun or chasing the perfect profile pic, the best selfies are about being real, finding your light, and playing around a little. The coolest ones aren’t always the most polished—they’re the ones that feel like a real moment. So, on this National Selfie Day, don’t overthink it. Just do your thing, hit that button, and let the vibe speak for itself.
What's Your Reaction?
