The Art of Saying Cheese in Professional Photos: A Smile Worth Capturing.

The phrase "say cheese" has been a staple of photography sessions for decades. But why exactly do we say "cheese"? And how does it influence the quality of professional photos? In this blog, we’ll explore the history behind this iconic phrase, the science of smiling, and how to achieve the perfect expression in professional photos.

Why Do We Say "Cheese"?

The origin of saying “cheese” dates back to the early 1900s, and the reason behind it is quite simple: when you say the word “cheese,” your mouth forms a shape that resembles a natural smile. The long "ee" sound pulls the corners of the lips upward, creating a subtle, relaxed grin that appears friendly and approachable on camera.

The Power of a Genuine Smile

While saying "cheese" can evoke a smile, it's important to recognize the difference between a forced smile and a genuine one. In professional photography, a natural smile is much more desirable. Here’s why:

1. Authenticity: A real smile engages not just the lips, but also the eyes. Known as a Duchenne smile, this involves the contraction of both the mouth and the eye muscles, giving a more heartfelt and authentic appearance.

2. Professional Impact: In professional headshots, the aim is often to communicate confidence, friendliness, and approachability. A genuine smile in business photos can make you appear more trustworthy, approachable, and confident. This is crucial for professionals in client-facing roles like sales, consulting, or leadership.

3. Body Language: Smiling influences the body language in photos. When people smile genuinely, their posture often reflects relaxation and openness. This helps create a more welcoming and positive image, whether it's for a corporate headshot, a portfolio, or even a team photo.

   
   

   

   
   

Tips for a Natural Smile in Photos

While "cheese" works in casual photography, professionals often employ more subtle techniques to elicit a natural, confident smile:

1. Think Happy Thoughts: Before the photo is taken, think of a positive memory or something that genuinely makes you happy. This helps bring out an authentic smile rather than a forced one.

2. Relax Your Face: If you’re feeling tense, it will show in your facial expression. Take a deep breath, roll your shoulders back, and loosen your jaw to reduce any stiffness. Photographers may also encourage laughter to break the tension and create candid moments.

3. Smile with Your Eyes: The eyes are just as important as the mouth in conveying warmth and emotion. Known as “smizing” (smiling with your eyes), this technique helps avoid the dreaded “fake” smile. Focus on softening your gaze and engaging your eyes as you smile.

4. Lip Relaxation Techniques: Rather than thinking about forcing a big smile, try gently parting your lips and letting your smile form naturally. Some people also find it helpful to say softer words like “money” or “yoga” to achieve a more relaxed, professional look.

   
   

When Not to Say Cheese: Posing for Serious Professional Photos

In some professional settings, a big smile may not be appropriate. For example, in more formal or serious corporate headshots, a subtle expression may be preferred to project seriousness, professionalism, or authority. Here are a few tips for more neutral expressions:

• Slight Smile: A small, closed-mouth smile can appear polished and approachable while maintaining professionalism.

• Eyes Forward: Maintain eye contact with the camera to establish a connection with the viewer.

• Confident Posture: Your body language speaks volumes. Keep your shoulders relaxed but square to the camera for a confident and approachable demeanor.

  
  

Final Thoughts

While "cheese" is a tried-and-true method for eliciting a smile, the key to great professional photos lies in capturing authenticity. Whether you're taking a professional headshot, team photo, or corporate portrait, the goal is to reflect your true personality. A genuine smile, combined with good posture and relaxed body language, creates a lasting impression.

So, the next time you're in front of a camera, think about more than just saying "cheese." Focus on how you want to be perceived—whether warm and friendly or serious and professional—and let your natural expression shine.