A good self-portrait is just a portrait where you are also the photographer, which creates two practical problems: triggering the camera without being behind it, and getting yourself in focus when you are not there to focus on. Solve those two and the rest is the same flattering light, angle, and expression that make any portrait work.
For a camera, the foundation is a tripod plus a way to fire the shutter from a distance. The self-timer gives you a few seconds to get into position, an intervalometer or burst timer fires a series so you can move through poses, and a wireless remote or a phone app gives you full control from where you stand.
Getting yourself in focus
Focus is the classic self-portrait failure. Place a stand-in where you will be, such as a chair or a friend, focus on that with autofocus, then switch to manual focus so the point is locked and stand exactly there. Modern cameras with eye detection make this far easier, since they will find and hold focus on your eye when you step in. Stop down a little to f/4 or f/5.6 to give yourself a margin of sharp depth.
Light, angle, and expression
Flattering light is usually soft and from the front or side, so face a window or shoot in open shade rather than under harsh overhead sun. Position the camera at or slightly above eye level, which is generally more flattering than a low angle, and leave a little headroom and space in the direction you are looking. Relax your expression, since a self-conscious face reads instantly; shoot many frames and let the natural moments emerge between the posed ones.
Phone selfie tips
For phone selfies, the rear camera is sharper and wider in dynamic range than the front camera, so use the timer and a small tripod or prop to shoot with it when quality matters. Hold the phone slightly above eye level, turn toward the main light, and avoid the extreme close distance that distorts faces. The built-in timer and the volume button as a shutter release both help you get a steadier, more natural frame than a stretched-arm grab.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Trusting autofocus to find you when you are not there. Pre-focus on a stand-in and lock it, or use eye AF.
- Shooting wide open, so a slight misjudgment of distance leaves your eyes soft.
- Lighting yourself from harsh overhead sun instead of soft window or shade light.
- Holding a phone too close, which distorts your features. Back off and use the timer.
Frequently asked questions
How do I focus on myself in a self-portrait?
Pre-focus on a stand-in object placed where you will be, then switch to manual focus and stand exactly there. Cameras with eye-detection autofocus can find your eye automatically when you step in.
What is the best way to trigger the camera?
A self-timer for a single frame, a wireless remote or phone app for control, or an intervalometer to fire a series so you can move through poses without running back to the camera.
How do I take a better selfie with my phone?
Use soft light from a window, hold the phone slightly above eye level, avoid getting too close, and use the timer with a prop or tripod, ideally with the sharper rear camera.