So, you have purchased your own special step and repeat backdrop….maybe a red carpet also….it is setup and looks great.

So how do you make the most of this setting?

First you need to decide the best place to set up your banner.  Your will also need to consider the  proper lighting.  If you are using a photographer, they can help you with those decisions.

Once you have decided on the location, taking into account the size of the backdrop and the size of the location, whether it is inside or outdoors and at what time of day your event will take place, then you set it up.

Almost everyone has had some experience taking pictures so it doesn’t have to cost you a lot of money, especially if you can help by providing the basics in where and how your guests will be positioned in front of the backdrop on the red carpet.

Here are some basic tips used by celebrities who attend a lot of events and want their photos to be the best they can be at all times.

Never face straight forward: facing straight forward will give you a photo such as those done when you were in elementary school or when having your photo shot for your drivers license. Not exactly the most flattering view.

Know your best side: if you have ever studied your face and body in the mirror, you will become aware that your body, when viewed from each side, looks a bit different. We all share these quirks and it’s good if you are observant and see which side the camera likes.

If you are doing a formal pose, you might want to position one foot in front of the other slightly, with your best side showing and your other side more in the shadow.

Position your head so your chin is tilted down but without retracting it into your neck. This will take the shine off your nose and forehead and put the attention on your eyes and smile.

If your best attribute or dress is located on your backside, then it would be good to turn with your back slightly towards the front as you look over your shoulder demurely.

Remember, it’s all about light and shadow. You want your best features in a little more light and the features that aren’t as camera snappy more in the shadows.

And the most important thing to remember is the relaxed confidence you show when you are having a good time.

Keep your guests happy and having fun while you make sure that you or someone else watches out for these little hints. It’s not your guests who need to have attention on anything but having a good time.

If you need more info, the team at Sign Art Etc will be glad to help.  We aren’t always the fashionable, but we certainly see lots of pictures of famous and not so famous people in front of our backdrops.  The Sign Art team is always glad to help and offer suggestions.