Randy Chandler
When it comes to taking photos, the traditional prompt say cheese has become somewhat overused and can often result in forced or unnatural smiles. To capture more authentic and engaging expressions, it's worth exploring alternative phrases that encourage genuine reactions. Instead of relying on the classic cheese, photographers and subjects alike can experiment with creative prompts like say dreams, whisper wow, or even pretend you just won a prize. These alternatives not only add a touch of spontaneity but also help individuals relax and showcase their true personalities, ultimately leading to more memorable and captivating photographs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Natural Smiles | "Say 'Whiskey' or 'Pizza'" |
| Playful Tone | "Say 'Bubblegum' or 'Lollipop'" |
| Elegant Pose | "Say 'Glamour' or 'Fabulous'" |
| Relaxed Expression | "Say 'Easy' or 'Breeze'" |
| Energetic Vibe | "Say 'Jump' or 'Yay'" |
| Romantic Mood | "Say 'Love' or 'Sweetheart'" |
| Cultural Relevance | "Use phrases like 'Bibimbap' (Korean) or 'Paella' (Spanish)" |
| Creative Fun | "Say 'Pretzel' or 'Rainbow'" |
| Professional Look | "Say 'Confidence' or 'Success'" |
| Group Photos | "Say 'Together' or 'Friends'" |
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What You'll Learn
Say 'smile' or 'whiskey' for a natural grin
The word "cheese" has long been the go-to prompt for photographers seeking to coax a smile from their subjects. However, its overuse has rendered it somewhat ineffective, often resulting in stiff, unnatural grins. A more nuanced approach involves using words that evoke genuine emotion or physical relaxation. Two such alternatives are "smile" and "whiskey," each triggering a distinct response that can lead to a more authentic photograph.
"Smile" is deceptively simple yet profoundly effective. Unlike "cheese," which requires contorting the mouth into an exaggerated shape, "smile" is a natural action. It encourages subjects to think about the feeling of happiness rather than forcing a facial expression. For best results, instruct the subject to recall a joyful memory or imagine something amusing. This mental association fosters a genuine smile that reaches the eyes, a key indicator of authenticity. Pairing "smile" with a lighthearted comment or a joke can further enhance its effectiveness, particularly with children or individuals who feel self-conscious in front of the camera.
In contrast, "whiskey" works on a different principle: it engages the lips and cheeks in a way that mimics a relaxed, natural grin. When someone says "whiskey," the lips part slightly and curve upward, creating a soft, pleasant expression. This technique is especially useful for portraits where a subtle, understated smile is desired. It’s also ideal for subjects who find "smile" too direct or who struggle with self-consciousness. For optimal results, have the subject repeat "whiskey" slowly, allowing the word to shape their mouth gradually. This method is particularly effective for adults and professionals seeking a polished yet approachable look.
While both "smile" and "whiskey" are powerful tools, their success depends on context and delivery. For instance, "smile" may fall flat if the subject is already feeling tense, whereas "whiskey" might seem out of place in a casual, playful setting. Photographers should experiment with both prompts, observing how each subject responds. Combining these techniques with other strategies, such as encouraging movement or engaging in conversation, can further enhance the naturalness of the grin. Ultimately, the goal is to create an environment where the subject feels comfortable and at ease, allowing their true personality to shine through the lens.
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Use 'peekaboo' or 'giggles' for playful, relaxed shots
Peekaboo and giggles are powerful tools for photographers aiming to capture genuine, lighthearted moments. These techniques work particularly well with children, who naturally respond to playfulness, but they can also disarm adults, coaxing out authentic smiles. The key lies in creating an environment where the subject feels at ease, forgetting the camera’s presence. Peekaboo, a classic childhood game, taps into a universal sense of joy and surprise, while giggles are contagious, spreading relaxation like a ripple effect.
To execute peekaboo effectively, position yourself behind an object or your hands, then suddenly reveal yourself with an exaggerated expression. For children aged 1–5, this works best when paired with silly sounds or voices. Adults may respond better to a more subtle approach, such as peeking from behind a camera or prop. The goal is to trigger a spontaneous reaction, not a posed smile. Timing is critical—capture the moment of surprise, not the anticipation.
Giggles, on the other hand, require a bit of improvisation. Start by sharing a lighthearted joke, mimicking the subject’s expressions, or engaging in a playful activity like a fake tickle fight. For group shots, encourage subjects to whisper funny comments to one another, ensuring the laughter feels natural. Avoid overused phrases like “say cheese,” as they often result in stiff, forced grins. Instead, let the giggles flow organically, snapping photos during the crescendo of laughter.
A cautionary note: while these methods are effective, they require patience and adaptability. Not everyone responds the same way; some may feel self-conscious or unsure how to react. In such cases, ease into the activity gradually, starting with smaller gestures and building up to full engagement. For professional photographers, practice these techniques during warm-up shots to establish rapport before the main session.
In conclusion, peekaboo and giggles are more than just alternatives to “cheese”—they’re strategies for fostering connection and capturing raw emotion. By prioritizing playfulness and spontaneity, photographers can transform a static portrait into a dynamic, joyful memory. Whether working with toddlers or adults, these methods remind us that the best photos often come from moments of genuine, unscripted delight.
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Try 'dreams' or 'forever' for romantic or dreamy photos
For couples or individuals aiming to capture romantic or dreamy moments, the word "cheese" can feel out of place, disrupting the mood. Instead, try prompting with words like "dreams" or "forever." These alternatives not only align with the desired atmosphere but also evoke emotions that translate into authentic, heartfelt expressions. Unlike the forced smile triggered by "cheese," these prompts encourage a softer, more reflective gaze, ideal for intimate or whimsical shots.
Analyzing the impact, "dreams" invites subjects to imagine a shared future or cherished memory, naturally softening their features and deepening their connection in the frame. Similarly, "forever" implies timelessness, prompting a sense of enduring love or tranquility. Both words shift focus from the mechanical act of posing to the emotional narrative of the photo, resulting in images that feel lived-in rather than staged. For best results, pair these prompts with soft lighting and candid angles to enhance the dreamy aesthetic.
In practice, timing is key. Introduce "dreams" or "forever" just before the shot, allowing subjects a moment to internalize the word. Avoid over-repetition, as it can dilute the effect. For couples, encourage them to whisper the word to each other, fostering a private, intimate exchange that the camera can subtly capture. For solo shots, ask the subject to close their eyes briefly after the prompt, reopening them as the photo is taken to catch a genuine, reflective expression.
Comparatively, while "cheese" works for energetic, playful shots, "dreams" and "forever" excel in scenarios requiring depth and emotion. They’re particularly effective for engagement photos, anniversary shoots, or portraits meant to convey vulnerability or aspiration. Pairing these prompts with a slow shutter speed or soft-focus lens can further amplify the dreamy quality, creating images that feel like a fleeting moment suspended in time.
In conclusion, swapping "cheese" for "dreams" or "forever" transforms a generic photo into a narrative-rich keepsake. These prompts don’t just change what’s said—they reshape how the moment is felt and remembered. Whether capturing a couple’s bond or an individual’s introspection, these words bridge the gap between technical photography and emotional storytelling, ensuring the final image resonates long after the shutter clicks.
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Say 'pizza' or 'tacos' for fun, casual expressions
Saying "pizza" or "tacos" instead of "cheese" for photos is a playful twist that instantly injects personality into the moment. These words are universally recognized and evoke a sense of joy and comfort, making them perfect for casual, fun settings. Imagine a group of friends at a party or a family gathering—shouting "pizza!" or "tacos!" will likely spark laughter and create a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the traditional "cheese." The key is to choose a word that feels natural and aligns with the vibe of the occasion.
From a psychological perspective, "pizza" and "tacos" work because they are associated with positive experiences. Unlike "cheese," which is neutral, these words tap into cravings and social memories, like sharing a meal with loved ones. This emotional connection can help people relax and smile more genuinely, resulting in better photos. For example, a photographer working with children might find that "pizza!" gets bigger grins than "cheese," as kids often associate it with a favorite treat.
If you’re considering this approach, start by assessing the context. "Pizza" or "tacos" might not fit a formal event, but they’re ideal for birthdays, casual outings, or family photoshoots. Experiment with delivery—say the word enthusiastically, and encourage others to join in. For group shots, try alternating between "pizza" and "tacos" to keep the energy high. A practical tip: If someone doesn’t react strongly to one word, switch to the other—variety can reignite engagement.
One caution: Be mindful of cultural sensitivity. While pizza and tacos are widely loved, not everyone may relate to them equally. If you’re working with a diverse group, consider polling them beforehand or offering a few options. For instance, "Should we say pizza, tacos, or sushi?" lets people choose what resonates most. This inclusive approach ensures everyone feels involved and increases the chances of authentic smiles.
In conclusion, swapping "cheese" for "pizza" or "tacos" is a simple yet effective way to make photo sessions more enjoyable and memorable. It’s not just about the word itself but the energy and connection it brings. By tailoring your choice to the audience and context, you can create a fun, casual atmosphere that translates into vibrant, genuine photos. Next time you’re behind the camera, give it a try—you might just capture the best smiles yet.
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Use 'wow' or 'yay' for energetic, excited poses
Saying "wow" or "yay" before snapping a photo can transform a static smile into a dynamic, full-body expression of joy. These words naturally prompt a more energetic reaction—imagine the wide eyes, open mouths, and even jumps that accompany genuine excitement. Unlike "cheese," which often results in a flat, forced grin, "wow" and "yay" encourage movement and spontaneity. For photographers, this means capturing moments that feel alive and authentic, not staged.
To maximize the effect, instruct subjects to say "wow" or "yay" just as you’re about to take the shot, not before. The goal is to catch the peak of their reaction, not the buildup. For group photos, have everyone say it in unison to synchronize energy levels. Pro tip: Pair the word with a physical cue, like "Jump and say 'yay'!" to amplify the excitement. This works especially well with kids, teens, and adults alike, making it a versatile tool for any age group.
While "wow" and "yay" are powerful, they’re not one-size-fits-all. For instance, "yay" might feel too casual for formal events, while "wow" could come across as exaggerated in intimate settings. Always consider the context and the personalities involved. If the subject seems hesitant, reassure them that these words are meant to feel playful, not silly. The key is to create an environment where letting go feels natural, not forced.
One common mistake is overusing these phrases, which can dilute their impact. Limit their use to moments when you genuinely want to capture high energy. For example, save "yay" for celebratory shots like graduations or birthday parties, and reserve "wow" for moments of surprise or awe, such as a scenic backdrop or a grand reveal. By being intentional, you ensure these words remain effective tools in your photography arsenal.
Finally, remember that the goal isn’t just to replace "cheese"—it’s to elevate the entire photo-taking experience. When subjects feel excited and engaged, it shows. "Wow" and "yay" aren’t just words; they’re invitations to embrace the moment fully. So next time you’re behind the lens, ditch the stale smiles and opt for the vibrant energy these simple phrases can unlock.
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Frequently asked questions
Try saying "smile" or "happy" to evoke a genuine expression, or use phrases like "yes!" or "awesome!" for a more relaxed look.
Yes! Use phrases like "say 'friends!'" or "say 'memories!'" to create a playful and cohesive vibe in group shots.
Opt for neutral prompts like "relax" or "breathe" to maintain a composed and confident expression.
Absolutely! Try "whiskey" (English), "patate" (French), or "queso" (Spanish) for a unique and culturally inspired twist.
Use playful phrases like "say 'pizza!'" or "say 'ice cream!'" to capture their attention and excitement.
