5 Tips for Picture-perfect Smiles this Holiday Season

Photo by Chris Benson on Unsplash

The holidays are almost here, and that means plenty of opportunities for family photos. Face it, one of the most shared shots from any family gathering is the whole family all together. Want to be ready for every family photo op with a natural, happy smile? We’ve got you covered! Here are five smile tips for the holiday photo season.

1. Loosen Up

Just like musicians tune their instruments and perform vocal warm-ups before a performance and athletes do exercises to warm-up before a game, it’s the same idea with your smile. Prepare by relaxing your facial muscles. Give your cheeks a mini massage, or open and close your jaw a few times.

2. Giggle a Little

Try giggling a few seconds before the camera flashes. This will make your picture look more natural and relaxed as the photo is being taken. Not sure what will make you giggle before a photo? Ask the photographer to tell the group a “dad joke” or two.

3. Say Money

Stand in front of the mirror and say “cheese.” Now say “money.” See the difference? Saying “money” looks more like a real smile. Words that end in a “-ey” sound naturally drop the jaw just a bit and turn the corners of your lips upward.

4. Think Happy Thoughts

As everyone is getting in position for the photo think happy memories, whether it be a family trip to the beach or a cat video you watched on YouTube. Thinking happy thoughts helps put you in the frame of mind where a smile just comes naturally.

5. Practice Makes Perfect

Everyone’s perfect smile is a little different, so practice yours in the mirror to see and feel it in action. Is it smiling as wide as you can, or just showing a bit of tooth? Embrace your smile wrinkles too, because it always looks great with your smile.

Make sure you’re flossing daily and brushing twice a day. And don’t miss your twice-a-year dental check-ups, because – trust us – a happy and healthy smile is the most important element of any holiday photo.