Author Photo Guidance

There are a lot of great articles online that provide advice for getting your best author photo. Here are a few guidelines to get you started.

White Deer Publishing creates unique author graphics for our authors, and while we aim to represent our authors as accurately as possible, we have been known to add some hair or provide some touch ups. We want our authors to feel confident and that their author graphic represents how they see themselves.

Photographer

You don't need to hire a professional photographer, unless you'd like to.

Ask a friend or a loved one to take a few pictures of you. Choose someone you're comfortable with — the difference will be apparent in the photo.

When we're more comfortable with someone, we're more likely to relax, try a few different poses, and maybe even crack a joke or two — all things that will show in your face and body language in the final photo.

If you're still struggling to choose someone to take your photo, please get in touch.

Quality

A cell phone camera is fine, as long as it's high enough quality. If you have one, you can use a DSLR camera.

 

Lighting

Aim for a well-lit photo. Natural or studio light is best.

Take your picture somewhere you don't need to use flash. If you know you won't be using flash, you're more likely to choose a setting with lighting that comes from all over.

Angle

Take the photo straight on. Don't use high- or low-angles.

 

Range

Aim for a range of photos that include head shots and photos from the waist-up.

Pose

Try a few poses to find something that feels comfortable. We've had authors crossing their arms and with their hands in their pockets.

If your book has more than one author, take a few pictures together (if possible) and a few on your own.

 

Attire

Choose clothes that are well-fitting with colors that are flattering.

If part of your outfit feels a little too loose, the resulting image may feel disproportional or just not quite accurately represent your appearance. Similarly, clingy or shiny fabrics can highlight bumps and creases.

Avoid small, busy patterns and neon colors.

If you wear glasses, check your images for reflections on the lenses.

Try different things

If you're having trouble getting a photo that feels right, try switching things up.

Setting

If you've been struggling to get better lighting on your back deck, try the driveway or a nearby park.

Attire

Maybe that comfortable blazer you love is looking a little too loved. Or maybe the new one you bought last week is a little too tight for you to move as freely as you'd like.