So he’s finally popped the question, you said yes and you’re both feeling on top of the world. After calling your family and closest friends, it’s time to share the marvellous news with everyone, wherever they are in the world – and what better way than with a well-shot engagement selfie? Here's our golden rules on taking and posting that perfect pic - no duckface necessary.
Angles
You’re not taking a passport photo! If you have a ‘good’ side, now’s the time to show it off. Tilt your head slightly to the side, as this is more attractive and natural looking than staring dead straight into the camera and will prevent your features from appearing flat.
Images from @_fantasywedding and @oo_kay_oo
The Angle of Flattery is a well-known trick employed by serial selfie takers. The premise is simple; hold your camera or smartphone at arm’s length just above eye level with the lens pointing slightly downwards at around a 30-degree tilt. Again, this serves to make the best of your features, highlighting your eyes and cheekbones while slimming your nose and eliminating any signs of a double chin.
Style
Collage or single shot only? A collage can tell a story and capture the setting, your faces and the ring all in one frame. BUT posting just one shot keeps all the attention on you or your newly acquired sparkler. With no other distractions, the image will look timeless and elegant.
Images by @ashleywittmerphotography, unsplash, Pinterest and Pinterest
If you decide to go with a one-shot only image, choose a blank canvas or a simple but pretty backdrop, keeping in mind that your new treasure is the star of the show.
Lighting
Any good photographer will tell you lighting is key to taking quality snaps. Whether you want a couples selfie or a ring-only shot, make sure there’s lots of sunlight around as it’s by far the most flattering.
Position the camera in front of the sun so that the light is falling directly on you to ensure any shadows are pushed back and you’re illuminated properly. Lights to the side of you will create shadows that can distort your features and ruin the picture.
Images from @prasan.myreflections, @Rassy_ and @okwedding_pl
If you’re taking the shot indoors, move towards a well-lit window as fluorescent lamps can leave an unattractive yellowish tint. And avoid using flash unless you’re after the deer-in-the-headlights effect!
If you’re taking your selfie at night, gentle candlelight is the next best thing to the sun. Be sure to light more than one candle though, to ensure your image looks more serene than Scream.
Give yourself a hand
Your friends want to see the ring, not your chipped nails! Ensure your hands look their best by moisturising and sipping water to minimise swollen fingers caused by dehydration. The best thing is a manicure, but if your beau made a surprise proposal that’s not always possible. Give your nails a quick trim, file and polish before taking the shot. Images from @xxthu, @margotrobbie and @keepnupwithkaitt
5 OF THE BEST EDITIING APPS
Facetune
Apple’s editing app is Photoshop in your pocket. Loved by selfie-obsessives such as Kim K the app lets you fade spots and blemishes, darken eyebrows, lighten eyes and teeth, smooth skin and slim your features.
Instagram
Instagram needs no introduction; the hugely popular app and social media site has 14m users and counting. Its photo editing function includes a huge raft of filters (we love Valencia) and colour correcting tools. Great for editing and sharing in a snap.
Autodesk Pixlr
Autodesk Pixlr offers a horde of editing options including red-eye removal, a teeth whitening option, enhancements with just one click and borders and filters. You can even effects using the Pixlr Live feature as well as use a range of standard tools such as crop and rotate.
Perfect 365
This makeover app allows you to give yourself a total facelift without going under the knife. Features include makeup tools, allowing you to add lipstick, eyeshadow and contouring for definition; perfect for sprucing yourself up after a surprise proposal.
Frontback
Frontback helps you tell a story by collecting the images from your front and back cameras into a single frame. Ideal for an impromptu proposal, the double-selfie feature showcases your face and whatever or whoever is in front of you.
Main feature image from @paris.for.two