Old Chese... How to get people to smile?

[Quizbiz]

I was wonder how everybody gets their subjects to smile at the camera? Saying cheese, counting down, its all old.

 

[thebeginning]

why always smile?

 

[tr0gd0o0r]

Just stop messing with the camera and stare at them with a weird look on their face. (Never actually tried this on photography, but works in real life)

 

[binglemybongle]

Why not try doing this:

Show a picture of door with a Push/Pull sign on it AND George Bush stood next to it, with a puzzled look on his face!

You will have to use high speed film to assure there is no blurring as you track them rolling around on the floor howling with laughter in acknowledgement.

Too topical?

Perhaps use somesort of feather (on a stick to ensure you dont invade their personal space and end up in court).

Or perhaps a serious answer to the situation may be more suitable.

 

[Kodan_Txips]

In San Sebastian, in Spain, they say "patatas patatas"

I dunno why - at least the word cheese pulls your mouth into about the right shape.

 

[rangefinder]

I tried "look normal, happy and well adjusted." Usually gets me a smile or two.

 

[Artemis]

ONE REMINDER: "Say Cheese" doesnt work, I tried it at a wedding.
However, follow it up with a remark like "Well...you...actually..have to...eh...say...cheese" and I got a small smile.
Confidence, youve been their friend for years, call them by their first name...and sometimes it takes pushing further than social rules allow?

 

[craig]

I think that Arty is on the right track. A word or phrase will get them moving in the right direction. Generally saying Cheese only works in the movies. Your prowess for making the client and or subject feel comfortable is key. For me each shot is different. Sometimes people are having fun and I just shoot. When no one wants to be in the photo I take a stronger approach. I will physically position the subject and explain what I am doing and why they need to relax.

 

[binglemybongle]

Recently being a noob, i dont know how this suggestion will be taken, but....

It seems to me that people are the least relaxed when they know their picture is about to be taken. So in the past I've used a cable release.

Compose the shot, chat to them while standing away from the camera (holding the release) and just press when their not expecting it (but looking suitably composed).

They seem more natural but you've still got the lighting and sitting (or standing) position you require.

I do agree that people dont need to be smiling but it does help when its a posed portrait shot. Otherwise if its in a portfolio, you just come across as a miserable **** that the subjects hate!

Reasonable idea???

 

[SamD]

I have in the past put on a camp accent and then say "Ok, i want sexy darlin, ohhh fab! now, your a tiger!"

Funny thing is you always tend to get the claws and the rawl! without any prompting after that