How to Use Lighting to Get Rid of a Double Chin

Avoid photographing a double chin from underneath.

As people age and put on weight they may develop a larger chin that can crease and sag, creating the appearance of two chins, or a "double chin." When taking photographs, your subject will usually prefer the double chin to be downplayed. Strategic use of light and shadow can effectively reduce the appearance of a double chin, although it may not be completely eliminated. Additional retouching can be done in photo-editing software.

Things You'll Need

• Detachable flash

Instructions

1. Position your subject 3 to 4 feet away from you. Lighting from very close will light more of the face and add a dramatic effect. Lighting from too far away will soften the shadows and show too much of the double chin.

2. Hold the flash above your subject, a little off center. This position will cast a shadow under the chin, but not the eyes, and take attention away from the chin.

3. Lift your subject's face slightly toward the light to smooth the subject's chin out to increase the shadow created from the flash and separate the chin from the neck.

Tips & Warnings

• If taking photographs in natural light, make sure the sun is overhead, but not at midday, as the shadows will be too harsh for a flattering picture.

References

• "Digital Photography Lighting for Dummies;" Dirk Fletcher
• Outdoor Eyes: Lighting Styles