This is a common question many people ask, and it's often due to a combination of factors:
The Mirror's Reflection
- Reversed Image: Mirrors show a reversed image of ourselves, which we're accustomed to seeing. Photos capture us as others see us, without the reversal. This can be jarring and make us feel unfamiliar.
- Lighting: Mirrors often reflect light differently than camera flashes or natural light. This can affect how our features appear, making us look better in the mirror.
- Angle: We tend to hold the mirror at an angle that flatters us. In photos, the angle is often different, sometimes unflattering.
Photography Factors
- Camera Angle: The camera angle can significantly impact how we look in photos. A lower angle can make us appear taller and thinner, while a higher angle can make us appear shorter and wider.
- Lighting: Harsh lighting can create shadows and highlight imperfections. Soft lighting can make us look more radiant and youthful.
- Editing: Photos are often edited, which can enhance our appearance or make us look different from how we appear in real life.
Other Considerations
- Self-Perception: Our self-perception can influence how we see ourselves. We tend to be more critical of ourselves in photos than in the mirror.
- Confidence: When we feel confident, we tend to look better in photos. Our posture and facial expressions can convey confidence, which can be captured in photos.
It's important to remember that everyone looks different in photos, and there is no one "right" way to look. If you're not happy with how you look in photos, try experimenting with different angles, lighting, and poses. You can also consider using a photo editing app to make minor adjustments.
