The more I shoot portraits, the more I realize that a good smile really starts with the eyes. Not just the thought behind the eyes, but the actual muscles around the eyes are more flexed when you actually smile. This is why saying “cheese” doesn’t cut it.

It’s not quite squinting, but almost. Read more about the Duchenne smile technique (sometimes referred to as squinching, smizing, etc) here.

Tomorrow (June 28, 2014) I’m giving out free headshots and portraits at the studio from 1-4pm if you want some practice in front of the camera.

Come by and say hi!