In a world consumed by social media, the importance of getting a photo that properly flexes the outfit is crucial. The following steps will ensure that you get a photo that will do your “fit” justice.

By Liam Alteneder

Step 1: The Fit

This is why we are here. No other factors of your photo are as important as the outfit itself. Chances are if you going to these lengths to get a good fit pic, you already have a pretty keen sense of style. Stick with it and build your photo around what you are wearing.

Step 2: Setting the Scene

Only second to the fit, the location sets the tone for the photo. You can portray a certain vibe, style or mood based on where you are. From gray industrial surroundings to natural well-lit landscapes, each place will evoke a certain feel for your picture.

Here are a few suggestions of locations around Austin:

• The ‘Tower’ Pic
• The ‘Cool Wall’ Pic
• The ‘Off Guard but Not So Off Guard While Casually Eating’ Pic
• The ‘It’s 80 Degrees but I Still Put on Layers because Fashion Over Function’ Pic

Step 3: Lighting and Angles

Golden hour, the hour after sunset or the hour before sunrise, is your best friend for any photo opportunities. Getting an angel-esque glow can only be achieved within those two hours of the day.

As far as angles go, the rule of thirds is a good start. Envision a three-by-three grid over a photo. You want your subject to align with one of the vertical lines and the horizon of the background to align with one of the horizontal lines. If you can master this rule, you’ll find yourself becoming the designated photographer for all your friends. A close-up photo of your outfit from the shoulders down is another option and relieves the pressure of worrying about how your face looks.

Step 4: Accessories

Every good fit is accentuated by the right set of jewelry, bag, glasses or other accessory. The key to this is to not over-do it. It may be tempting to throw on every bit of “ice” you have to accessorize, but the beauty is in how less jewelry can elevate the entire ensemble.

Step 5: Social Media

Social media has become the channel through which we can share our daily lives, including what we are wearing. There is a reason #OOTD became a trend. Though the hashtag may have died, people still desire to show off what they are wearing. We may all have different reasons for dressing, but at the end of the day it is a projection of our personality. Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat are all good avenues for posting a fit pic, but there are unspoken guidelines for each.

Instagram: This is where the cream of the crop goes. Many “hypebeasts” and “Insta-famous” models and influencers make their living off of overproduced photos on here so you have keep up to compete.  

Twitter: Among the memes and unpopular opinions it is always nice to see a few quick pics that show off a good fit.

Snapchat: Snapchat is for that moment when you pass a window walking to class and you realize your fit is too fire not to snag a pic.

Follow these five steps to produce a masterful fit pic worthy of its own Vogue spread and watch your Internet clout grow exponentially.