How Do You Say Cheese?: Unveiling the Art and Science of Capturing the Perfect Smile
The act of saying “cheese” to prompt a smile for a photograph is a widespread and seemingly simple custom, yet its effectiveness and cultural significance are surprisingly complex. The key is understanding the mechanics of facial muscles and the psychological triggers that create a genuine, rather than forced, expression of joy.
The Curious History of “Cheese”
The origins of the phrase “Say cheese!” as a photographic prompt are surprisingly recent. While portrait photography dates back to the mid-19th century, the earliest documented use of “cheese” in this context appears in The Big Spring Herald in 1943. The article claimed that saying “cheese” forced one to smile. Before this, photographers used various techniques, often involving long exposure times that necessitated serious, posed expressions. The advent of faster films and shutters allowed for more spontaneous shots, and “cheese” offered a simple, readily accessible method to achieve a pleasant look.
The Science Behind the Smile
Why does “cheese” work (sometimes)? The key lies in the phonetics of the word. Pronouncing “cheese” tends to stretch the lips and slightly elevate the corners of the mouth, creating a semblance of a smile. However, the resulting expression can often appear strained or artificial if not accompanied by genuine emotion. A real smile, known as a Duchenne smile, involves not only the mouth but also the muscles around the eyes, creating crow’s feet. This is often lacking when solely relying on the “cheese” prompt.
The Cultural Variations of a Photogenic Grin
While “cheese” is prevalent in English-speaking cultures, other languages employ different prompts to elicit a smile. Some examples include:
- Spanish: “Di patata!” (Say potato!)
- Japanese: “Hai, chizu!” (Yes, cheese!)
- Korean: “Kimchi!”
- Swedish: “Omelett!” (Omelet!)
- German: “Käse!” (Cheese!)
This demonstrates the diverse ways cultures aim to achieve a similar outcome – a pleasant facial expression captured in a photograph. The selection often considers the sound of the word and its ability to shape the mouth into a smile-like position.
Beyond “Cheese”: Alternatives for a Genuine Smile
While “cheese” remains a common fallback, professional photographers often employ techniques that encourage genuine smiles. These might include:
- Engaging conversation: Talking to the subject about something they enjoy or find amusing.
- Positive reinforcement: Offering genuine compliments or encouragement.
- Funny prompts: Telling a lighthearted joke or asking a silly question.
- Natural actions: Asking the subject to interact with others, like hugging a loved one or playing with a pet.
- “Squinching”: Slightly squinting the eyes to create a more relaxed and confident appearance.
The goal is to elicit a spontaneous and authentic reaction rather than a forced, unnatural smile.
The “Cheese” Spectrum: From Forced to Fantastic
Not all “cheese” smiles are created equal. There’s a spectrum that ranges from the downright awkward to the surprisingly effective.
| Smile Type | Description | Characteristics | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forced “Cheese” | The lips are stretched, but the eyes are unengaged, resulting in a strained look. | Tense jaw, stiff lips, lack of crow’s feet around the eyes. | Low |
| Polite “Cheese” | A slightly more relaxed version, but still somewhat artificial. | A softer lip stretch, but minimal eye engagement. | Medium |
| Natural “Cheese” | “Cheese” is used as a starting point, but genuine emotion follows. | Relaxed jaw, subtle eye engagement, a hint of warmth. | High |
| Duchenne “Cheese” | The ultimate goal: a smile that engages both the mouth and the eyes. | Full facial engagement, crow’s feet, a feeling of genuine joy radiating from the expression. | Very High |
Common Mistakes When Saying “Cheese”
- Saying it too early: Blurting out “cheese” before the photographer is ready results in a fleeting, often awkward expression.
- Saying it too loudly: Over-enunciation can lead to a strained and unnatural smile.
- Focusing solely on the mouth: Remember, the eyes are just as important in conveying genuine emotion.
- Holding the smile for too long: A prolonged smile can appear forced and tiring.
- Not relaxing the jaw: A tense jaw contributes to a stiff and unnatural look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called a Duchenne smile?
The Duchenne smile is named after French neurologist Guillaume Duchenne, who scientifically studied facial expressions in the 19th century. He used electrical stimulation to activate different facial muscles and observed the distinction between genuine and feigned smiles.
Are there cultures that don’t smile in photos?
Yes, some cultures traditionally viewed smiling in photographs as unnecessary or even inappropriate. This perception often stemmed from a belief that photographs should convey dignity and seriousness. However, this is becoming less common as Western cultural influences spread.
Does saying “cheese” work for everyone?
No, the effectiveness of “cheese” varies depending on the individual. Some people naturally produce a pleasant expression, while others find it difficult to avoid a forced look. Ultimately, a genuine emotion trumps any verbal cue.
What are some alternatives to “cheese” that work well?
Alternatives include phrases like “money,” “say yogurt,” or “whiskey.” These words create different mouth shapes and can be effective for some individuals. Finding the right prompt is a matter of experimentation.
How can I tell if someone’s smile is genuine?
Look for the involvement of the eyes. A genuine smile creates crow’s feet and crinkles around the eyes, while a forced smile primarily affects the mouth. Also, a real smile feels warm and contagious.
Is it okay to not smile in photos?
Absolutely! There’s no rule that says you have to smile in photos. A serious or thoughtful expression can be just as captivating, depending on the context and your personal preference.
How does age affect smiling in photos?
Children often smile more readily and naturally, while adults may feel more self-conscious or pressured to perform. Learning to relax in front of the camera is important at any age.
Does makeup affect how a smile looks in photos?
Yes, certain makeup techniques can enhance or alter the appearance of a smile. Lip liner and lipstick can define the lips and make them appear fuller, while contouring can accentuate the cheekbones and create a more defined facial structure.
How important is good lighting for a smile to look good in a photo?
Lighting is crucial. Soft, diffused lighting is generally more flattering, as it minimizes shadows and highlights imperfections. Harsh or direct lighting can create unflattering shadows and make a smile appear strained.
What are some tips for relaxing before a photo shoot?
Try deep breathing exercises, listening to calming music, or engaging in light stretches. The key is to release tension and create a relaxed and confident state of mind.
Is it better to show teeth or keep your lips closed when smiling for a photo?
This is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to show their teeth for a more expressive smile, while others feel more comfortable with a closed-lip smile. Experiment to see what looks best for you.
What’s the best way to practice smiling for photos?
Practice in front of a mirror, experimenting with different expressions and finding what feels most natural and authentic. Record yourself talking and smiling to see how you appear in motion. The more comfortable you are with your own smile, the better it will look in photos.