We’ve all been there — you wake up Sunday morning to a Facebook notification that says your best friend has tagged you in a photo. You can’t help but grimace, as it’s a 95 percent chance it’s a bad one. Okay, 99 percent. Heck, it’s probably even worse than that photo your ex-boyfriend tagged you in two weeks ago with spinach in your teeth.

I can’t promise you your friends won’t tag you in unflattering photos, or that photo from high school prom. But, I can promise that if you follow these photo-taking tips, you can prevent bad photos in the future.

Don’t Look Like A Doll

Blink! Many people are afraid of having their eyes closed when they have their picture taken. But, purposely not blinking can cause your face to look stiff and awkward, and can make your eyes watery. If the photographer caught you while you were blinking, it’s unlikely they’ll use the photo. However, if you look like a glassy-eyed doll, your friend might just decide that’s your problem.

Assess the Angle

Whether the camera really adds 10 pounds is still up for debate, but most of us can say that in one photo or another, it sure feels like it does. Facing the camera straight on isn’t favorable. Instead, try having photos taking at an angle. Digital Camera World reports that positioning the camera high and getting the right lighting at eye level can help create a flattering portrait.

Pose Like Nobody’s Business

The more photos you’re in, the more likely it is that you’ll find one you like. This is especially true for group photos or selfies. Take as many as necessary to KNOW what angle your body and face look their best.

Don’t be Cheesy

A fake “say cheeeeeeeese” smile is never flattering. It doesn’t look like you’re naturally happy about anything; In fact, it looks like you’re in pain. Pass the cheese and instead try to think of a funny joke. If you can’t, try faking a laugh or two. This smile will come across as more natural in a photo.

If you’re not up for faking a laugh, Lifehacker suggests replacing “cheese” with a word that ends in an “uh” sound, like yoga or mocha. It’s said these sorts of smiles will come across as more natural to the camera, rather than the widespread, unnatural grin that saying “cheese” gives (plus, who wouldn’t be happy about a relaxation technique and a caffeinated beverage?)

Posing for photos doesn’t have to be painful once you’ve mastered these techniques.

Happy Snapping!

What’s your favorite technique for achieving flattering photos?