How to Do a Really Good Close-Up Photo of Yourself

Choose a background. Whether you want a plain, solid-color background like a painted wall or something more natural, the key is neutrality. Your background should not be noisy of filled with distractions, like a cluttered bedroom or a forest full of animals and trees. Instead, choose something simple and uniform, like hanging a solid-colored bed sheet on a wall or the side of a building.

Wear flattering clothing. Since this is a close-up image, your clothes may not be visible, but if they are, they should complement the background. Don't wear something that matches too closely, or you'll blend in to your surroundings. Instead, wear something that contrasts, like a black shirt against a cream wall.

Turn off the flash. Camera flashes diminish your attractiveness in the photo, so instead of relying on that harsh light, use soft, natural light for your picture. Take your photo in a naturally lit room. For example, use a full-length mirror to bounce sunlight onto yourself for a diffused, less-harsh look.

Use a digital camera with a front display. This way, you can see what you are doing from the front of the camera. While some camera phones have cameras in the front, they do not necessarily take the kind of high-quality photos you are striving for. If your digital camera doesn't have a front display option, position it in front of a mirror so you can see the back display.

Position the camera on a solid surface or a tripod. Taking a photo at arm's length limits your options, so let the camera sit still so you can focus on your modeling. The camera should be no closer than 3 feet or so; any closer, and it may have difficulty focusing.

Find the position you want by modeling in front of the camera while watching the display. When you feel confident in finding your mark, return to your camera to set the timer. Return to your mark, and take your place before the shutter goes off.