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You asked. She answered. Our wonderful Emme-supermodel, superperson- helps you size things up and cope all the way around.
Q: Iam a voluptuous size 18. My question is this: How can I take flattering pictures of myself? The way I look in a mirror is not how I end up appearing in snapshots. I always look bigger, especially in my chin area. Any suggestions?
A: There are thousands of ways we can look in photos. Practice with a friend or, better yet, a college student majoring in photography. Make it a fun learning project.
Rule # 1: Don't let the photographer shoot you from below. Meaning, don't let your picture be taken when the shooter is looking up at you. You'll get the best results if the camera is at eye level or a little higher, shooting down.
Rule # 2: Chin down. This way you say good-bye to your exaggerated chin area.
Rule # 3: When laughing and playing with the camera, try not to smile too big. It looks forced and unnatural.
Rule # 4: When taking a portrait, be sure to vary the angle of your face by rotating it left to right. This will highlight your bone structure and enhance your angles.
Rule # 5: No stiff, straight-on full-front shots. Most of all, try to relax; have fun. It takes time to capture what feels and looks good. Remember, practice makes perfect. I have thousands of shots taken of me each year, and out of all of them only a few are printed.
Q: I am having marriage troubles. For the past two years, I haven't felt very good about the way I look. This never used to be a problem: I have been full-figured all my life and have never had trouble getting a man. Ever since the birth of my son, though, my husband has been ignoring me. I recently met a guy who I've got a bit of a crush on. I know he feels the same way-he gives me all the attention I'm not getting at home. Now, I love my husband and don't really want to look elsewhere, but...
A: Many new moms suffer from low self-esteem, but before you seek affection outside your home, tellyour husband how you feel. Maybe you have not been in the mood for him either. As new parents, you have to make adjustments. Time away from your son will keep the romance alive. Time all together helps bond the family. It is only by this delicate ebb and flow that the two of you can make your relationship work. Being the object of attraction is vital to every person; let your husband know that you are the same diva as before and that you are ready for the next step in your marriage.
Q: I met a guy on-line quite some time ago. We have developed a very close friendship, and he wants to meet me in person. I have never told him about my weight, so I am worried about what his reaction may be. We've exchanged pictures, but the one I sent was very flattering and not what I tend to look like on a day-to-day basis. I am not sure what to do. I truly care for this man, and he says that he cares for me, too. Is there any way to resolve this after a year of correspondence? I really hope that our relationship can turn out to be something more.
A: Have you seen the movie You've Got Mail? If you haven't, this would be a great first date. But bring a friend-it's the safe thing to do. Initial "real life" meetings with people from the internet are tricky. About your weight ...what about it? You've spent a year getting to know one another without weight being an issue. If it were, it would have come up by now. Work on raising your self-esteem and body image. Foster the qualities that make you uniquely you. Stay open-minded and enjoy the experience. Good luck!