2. And while you’re at it, “Try to be a little sneaky when taking candid shots. Show real emotion, instead of everyone smiling for the camera. Those are great when you have a whole family together too.” Mix it up a little.

3. Don’t be too close to the camera. The reason selfies can be so fake looking is because most people are too in your face and posed.

4. Understand the angles. “Every shape of the face is different and everyone photographs differently, so being relaxed is probably the best way to look great in pictures.”

5. Go for balance. If you have a heavier person and a thinner person standing next to each other, pose the slimmer person in front, in this way everyone will look more proportional.

6. And whatever else you do—don’t do the duck face!

Hayon also recommends an easy to use camera, since while phone pics are popular, for special occasions you might want to use a better performing camera. The new 16 MP Vivitar VS 1527 (on sale for $149,amazon.com) is more than just a snap and shoot. With a 14x zoom and red-eye flash modes, you can capture more professional looking photos at your holiday soiree.

article by  1st published in Parade Magazine

Rachel Weingarten is a noted and quoted style expert and former celebrity makeup artist. She’s the style director of becausestyle.com, author ofCareer and Corporate Cool and Hello Gorgeous! Beauty Products in America ’40s-’60s, and the forthcoming Ancient Prayer: Channeling Your Faith 365 Days of the Year.