How to take the perfect #selfie? Here are some expert tips!

Have you ever spent ages trying to take the perfect selfie, and after 20-50 pictures you’re still not happy with the result? We feel your pain. Which is why The Body Shop – and in conjunction with launching its new All-in-One InstaBlur and No Retouch Movement – hosted an event that brought together experts such as makeup artist Elaine Lin and photographer Wesley Loh to teach us insider tips and tricks for achieving the perfect selfie without the need for any retouching and filters. And of course, we’ve summarised it all for you:

Makeup (Expert tips from makeup artist Elaine Lin):

1. Apply The Body Shop’s Instablur – The perfect base for any selfie – it blurs imperfections, redness, discolouration and blemishes, need we say more? (Read our full review here)

2.Hide any blemishes with a good concealer- Investing in a good concealer is the trick to the perfect selfies- it means no more editing away your blemishes! So invest in a good concealer perfectly matched for your skin and you’ll be good to go.

3.Highlight and Contour: One of the most important steps to creating a stunning selfie- highlighting and contouring. Make your face appear thinner, more sculpted with contour powder,bronzer, or darker foundation- but don’t forget to highlight your cheekbones, nose, and cupids bow if you’re feeling a little adventurous.

4.Add shimmer to the centre of the eyelid: Along with your already done eyeshadow, add a subtle amount of shimmer just to the centre of your eyelid- this adds a subtle, seductive touch while brightening the eyes.

Now that we’ve covered the beauty side of selfies, what about the technical stuff?

Photography (Expert tips from photographer Wesley Loh):

1. Find your better side: Take some alone time with just you and your camera– snap a few selfies from both sides of your face to discover which one is your better side.

2.Never take a selfie from below your nose: Double chins and a view up your nose is never flattering, trust us!

3.Always opt for natural lighting:  Natural lighting is always the most flattering, but if you’re in a room with not-so-great lighting then put a lamp directly in front of your face to replicate the sun.

4. Get 8 hours of sleep: Studies show that the lines and imperfections in your face are way more visible when you haven’t had enough sleep– 7-8 hours ladies!

If you would like to join the fun and say no to retouching, then share your selfies via Facebook and Instagram with the hashtag #noretouchtbssg – to stand the chance of winning the The Body Shop All-In-One Instablur weekly! The contest runs from 6 to 31 May 2014!

Now that we’ve helped you on your way to creating the perfect selfie, get snapping!

Shannon Gallagher