Andy Montoya
When taking photos, the traditional prompt say cheese is widely used to encourage a smile, but it often results in a forced or unnatural grin. To achieve a more genuine and relaxed expression, many photographers and individuals are opting for alternative phrases. These alternatives, such as say spaghetti, say smile, or even playful options like say pineapple, aim to evoke a more authentic reaction. By using these creative substitutes, people are more likely to produce a natural, heartfelt smile, making the photos appear more candid and engaging. This shift highlights the importance of spontaneity and authenticity in capturing memorable moments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alternative Phrases | "Say 'smile' or 'smize' (smiling with your eyes)" |
| Purpose | To encourage a natural, relaxed facial expression in photos |
| Origin | Derived from the need to avoid the forced, unnatural look often caused by saying "cheese" |
| Cultural Variations | In some cultures, phrases like "whiskey" or "money" are used instead |
| Photography Tip | Using alternative phrases helps capture genuine emotions and expressions |
| Examples | "Say 'smile'", "Say 'happy'", "Say 'pizza'" |
| Effectiveness | More likely to produce authentic smiles compared to "cheese" |
| Trending Alternatives | "Smize", "Happy", "Love", "Weekend" |
| Professional Recommendation | Photographers often suggest personalized phrases to connect with the subject |
| Fun Fact | The word "cheese" has been used since the 19th century, but its effectiveness has been questioned in modern photography |
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What You'll Learn
Use Smile! or Say 'Whiskey'
Saying "cheese" for photos is a tradition, but it often results in forced, unnatural smiles. Enter two alternatives that promise more authentic expressions: "Smile!" and "Whiskey!" The former is a direct command that encourages a genuine grin, while the latter leverages the way the word shapes the mouth into a relaxed, natural smile. Both options are simple yet effective, making them ideal for photographers and selfie enthusiasts alike.
Instructions for Optimal Results:
When using "Smile!", deliver the cue in a cheerful, upbeat tone to evoke a spontaneous reaction. For "Whiskey!", ensure the subject enunciates the word clearly, as the elongated "s" and rounded "key" sounds naturally lift the corners of the mouth. Pro tip: Pair these prompts with a quick joke or compliment to enhance the subject’s comfort and authenticity.
Comparative Analysis:
While "Smile!" is straightforward and universally understood, "Whiskey!" adds an element of surprise, often catching subjects off-guard and producing more candid expressions. However, "Whiskey!" may confuse younger children or non-English speakers, making "Smile!" the safer, more inclusive choice. Consider your audience before deciding which prompt to use.
Practical Tips for Different Age Groups:
For toddlers and young children, "Smile!" paired with a silly face or sound works best. Teenagers and adults often respond well to "Whiskey!" due to its novelty. For seniors, a warm "Smile!" accompanied by eye contact fosters a genuine, heartfelt expression. Experiment with both to see which yields the best results for your subjects.
Whether you opt for "Smile!" or "Whiskey!", the goal is to capture a natural, unforced smile. Both methods are easy to implement and require no special equipment or skills. By choosing the right prompt for your audience and situation, you can transform stiff, cheesy grins into radiant, authentic smiles that light up every photo.
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Try Look here! or Eyes on me
Saying "cheese" for photos is a habit ingrained in us since childhood, but it often results in forced, unnatural smiles. Enter the alternatives "Look here!" or "Eyes on me!"—phrases that shift focus and encourage a more authentic expression. These cues direct attention to the camera lens, engaging the eyes and creating a connection that feels genuine rather than staged. Unlike "cheese," which prompts a wide, often exaggerated grin, these phrases foster a relaxed, candid look that translates better in photographs.
To maximize their effectiveness, consider the tone and delivery. A warm, conversational "Look here!" works well with children or in casual settings, while "Eyes on me!" carries a slightly more authoritative edge, ideal for group shots or formal portraits. Pair these phrases with a pause—allowing subjects to adjust their gaze—and follow up with a quick, soft click of the shutter. This timing ensures the moment of genuine connection is captured before the pose becomes self-conscious.
A practical tip: Combine these cues with subtle movement. For instance, ask subjects to "Look here!" as they tilt their head slightly or "Eyes on me!" while they shift their weight. Movement breaks stiffness and adds dynamism to the shot. For children, make it playful—"Eyes on me, superhero!"—to keep their attention without resorting to "cheese."
Comparatively, while "smile" or "say pickles" might seem like alternatives, they often fall short. "Smile" can feel generic, and "pickles" still triggers an exaggerated mouth shape. "Look here!" and "Eyes on me!" stand out because they prioritize eye engagement, the cornerstone of a compelling portrait. The eyes convey emotion, and these phrases ensure they’re the focal point, not the mouth.
In conclusion, swapping "cheese" for "Look here!" or "Eyes on me!" is a simple yet powerful technique for photographers and subjects alike. It’s not just about avoiding a cliché—it’s about capturing authenticity. By directing attention to the eyes and incorporating natural cues, these phrases transform a routine photo session into an opportunity for genuine connection and expression.
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Suggest Ready? or One, two, three
The traditional "say cheese" prompt for photos feels outdated and often yields forced, unnatural smiles. "Suggest Ready? or One, two, three" offers a refreshing alternative, leveraging anticipation and rhythm to capture genuine expressions. This method works particularly well with children and groups, where spontaneity is key. Instead of commanding a smile, it creates a moment of shared focus, resulting in more authentic and dynamic photos.
Analytical Breakdown:
"Suggest Ready?" introduces a pause, allowing subjects to mentally prepare and relax their facial muscles. This subtle delay reduces the pressure to perform instantly. "One, two, three" adds a rhythmic countdown, building anticipation and synchronizing the group’s attention. By the third beat, smiles often emerge naturally, driven by the momentum rather than forced compliance. This dual approach combines psychological readiness with physical timing, making it a powerful tool for photographers.
Practical Application:
To implement this technique, start by engaging your subjects with a casual conversation to ease tension. Then, clearly say, "Suggest Ready?" with a slight pause, giving them a moment to settle. Follow immediately with "One, two, three," snapping the photo on the final count. For children, use an upbeat tone and pair the countdown with a playful action, like a jump or a silly face. For adults, maintain a steady pace to avoid rushed or overly posed results.
Comparative Advantage:
Unlike "cheese," which often produces stiff, identical smiles, "Suggest Ready? or One, two, three" encourages individuality. The pause allows subjects to interpret the moment in their own way, while the countdown creates a unified yet natural response. This method is especially effective in candid or group shots, where authenticity is more valuable than uniformity. It’s a subtle shift, but one that can transform the energy and outcome of a photograph.
Takeaway:
Adopting "Suggest Ready? or One, two, three" as your go-to photo prompt requires practice but yields significant rewards. It’s not just about replacing a word; it’s about redefining the interaction between photographer and subject. By prioritizing comfort, timing, and spontaneity, you’ll capture moments that feel real, not rehearsed. Whether you’re a professional or a casual shooter, this technique is a simple yet impactful way to elevate your photography.
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Opt for Focus! or Watch the bird
Saying "cheese" for photos is a habit ingrained in us since childhood, but it often results in forced, unnatural smiles. Enter the alternatives "Opt for Focus!" or "Watch the bird," both designed to shift attention and create genuine expressions. The former, "Opt for Focus!," is a command that redirects the subject’s energy inward, encouraging them to concentrate on the camera lens. This sharpens their gaze and eliminates the distraction of trying to smile on cue. It’s particularly effective for professional headshots or portraits where intensity and presence are desired. For best results, instruct the subject to take a deep breath before you say it, ensuring they’re grounded and ready to engage.
"Watch the bird," on the other hand, is a playful, lighthearted alternative that works wonders with children or anyone prone to stiffness in front of the camera. The phrase evokes curiosity and imagination, as if there’s something fascinating happening just above the lens. This naturally lifts the subject’s gaze, softens their expression, and often elicits a subtle, authentic smile. It’s especially useful in group photos, where it creates a sense of shared wonder. Pair it with a gentle upward tilt of your hand to guide their eyes, but avoid overdoing the gesture to keep the moment spontaneous.
While both phrases serve to replace "cheese," their effects are distinct. "Opt for Focus!" is analytical and intentional, ideal for subjects who respond well to direct instruction. It’s a tool for photographers seeking to capture confidence and clarity. Conversely, "Watch the bird" is descriptive and whimsical, tapping into the subject’s natural curiosity. It’s perfect for candid shots or relaxed settings where ease and joy are the goals. Understanding these nuances allows you to tailor your approach to the subject and the desired outcome.
To maximize the impact of these alternatives, consider the context. For instance, "Opt for Focus!" works best with older teens and adults who can follow the command without feeling self-conscious. For younger children or pets (yes, even pets can benefit!), "Watch the bird" is more engaging and less likely to confuse them. Experiment with tone—a firm yet encouraging delivery for "Opt for Focus!" and a light, almost conspiratorial tone for "Watch the bird." With practice, these phrases will become your go-to tools for capturing authentic, memorable photos.
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Say Relax! or Natural pose
The traditional "say cheese" prompt has become a tired cliché, often resulting in stiff, unnatural smiles. Instead, photographers and subjects alike are turning to more effective alternatives like "Say Relax!" or "Natural pose." These phrases shift the focus from forced grins to genuine expressions, encouraging a more authentic and comfortable demeanor in front of the camera.
Analytical Perspective:
The phrase "Say Relax!" works because it triggers a physiological response. When instructed to relax, the facial muscles soften, and tension dissipates, leading to a more natural smile. Similarly, "Natural pose" prompts the subject to adopt a stance that feels organic, reducing the self-consciousness often associated with posing. Both phrases tap into the psychology of ease, making them powerful tools for capturing candid moments.
Instructive Approach:
To use these prompts effectively, timing is key. For "Say Relax!," deliver the instruction just before snapping the photo, allowing the subject to exhale and settle into a calm expression. For "Natural pose," guide the subject to shift their weight slightly or adjust their hands to a comfortable position. Encourage them to breathe deeply and focus on how their body feels rather than how it looks. These small adjustments can make a significant difference in the final image.
Comparative Insight:
Unlike "say cheese," which often produces identical, toothy grins across subjects, "Say Relax!" and "Natural pose" yield unique results. Each person interprets these prompts differently, leading to a diversity of expressions and postures that reflect individuality. For instance, one person might tilt their head slightly, while another might fold their arms in a relaxed manner. This variability adds depth and authenticity to group or individual portraits.
Practical Tips:
For best results, combine these phrases with positive reinforcement. Compliment the subject on their natural smile or posture to boost their confidence. If working with children, pair "Say Relax!" with a playful activity, like asking them to imagine their favorite thing. For adults, suggest they close their eyes briefly before opening them to a relaxed expression. Experiment with these techniques in different settings—whether it’s a formal portrait session or a casual family gathering—to find what works best for each scenario.
By adopting "Say Relax!" or "Natural pose," photographers can move beyond the artificiality of "say cheese" and capture images that feel genuine and alive. These simple yet effective prompts transform the act of posing into an opportunity for self-expression, ensuring every photo tells a more authentic story.
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Frequently asked questions
Instead of "cheese," you can say "whiskey" or "money" for a more natural smile.
Saying "cheese" can make smiles look forced or unnatural, while alternatives like "whiskey" or "money" create a more relaxed expression.
Yes, you can try "pizza," "smile," or even "yes" to achieve a genuine and spontaneous smile.
Absolutely! Using a different word can help you look more natural and less posed, resulting in a better photo.
Yes, phrases like "say peaches" or "think happy thoughts" can also help you achieve a genuine smile.
