We spend hours in the gym, fine-tuning our strength, posture, and presence. But when it comes time for a picture — whether it’s a mirror selfie, a Zoom headshot, or a night out with friends — the wrong angle can betray all that hard work.
That’s why I swear by the forehead-forward trick. It’s one of those subtle, almost invisible adjustments that instantly changes how you look in a photo.
Why I’m Obsessed
Most of us instinctively lean back or tuck our chin when we smile for pictures, which creates unwanted shadows under the jawline (hello, accidental double chin). By sliding your forehead just slightly forward, you lengthen your neck and sharpen your jaw. It’s millimeters of movement that make a huge difference.
It feels a little awkward when you’re doing it — but on camera, it looks effortless and confident.
The Flow (How To Do It)
How to Make It Stick
Remember, FCET:
- Forehead forward – adds definition
- Chin down – lengthens jawline
- Ears ahead – balances profile
- Tuck hips, lift neck – string technique
Here is a more detailed breakdown:
- Anchor your body. Keep your torso tall, shoulders back, chest open. Don’t lean your whole body toward the camera.
- Forehead leads. Imagine your forehead reaching toward the lens, like a turtle peeking out of its shell.
- Jaw neutral. Keep your jaw relaxed — don’t clench or jut it forward.
- Ears with you. Think of your ears gliding forward too — it prevents you from just tipping your head down.
- Eyes soft. A gentle “squinch” (slightly narrowing the eyes) adds warmth and presence.
- Chin micro-drop. Not a tilt down — just a millimeter lower to clean up the jawline.
Pro Tip – “String Trick”
Practice sideways in front of a mirror. Slide your forehead forward a touch, then back to neutral. You’ll see the shadow under your jawline disappear. Once you’ve got it, it becomes second nature — whether you’re posing for selfies, sitting on a Zoom panel, or walking into a photoshoot.
The string technique is a simple posture cue that instantly improves how you look in photos. Imagine a string attached to the crown of your head, pulling you gently upward. As you lift, your neck elongates, your shoulders drop back, and your hips naturally tuck under. This creates a taller, more confident line without tension. It’s subtle, but it changes how your entire body carries itself — smoothing your jawline, opening your chest, and giving you that effortless “pulled together” look.
This isn’t really about vanity — it’s about presence. Just like practicing good posture or making eye contact, the forehead-forward trick shows you’re intentional about how you show up. You look sharper, more confident, and more energized, without filters or gimmicks.
💡 Next time you step in front of a camera, try this one tiny adjustment. You’ll see the difference instantly — and wonder how you ever posed without it.
