Penelope Trunk recently twittered that she felt she looked “fat” and “structurally ugly” in a New York Times photo. First, not true; second, there are many people who feel they are simply not photogenic.

As an opera singer, I’ve had to do a lot of headshots and photo ops, and I used to design hair and makeup for theatre productions during my undergrad. I thought I’d compile some of my favorite “secrets” for a great photo shoot. Please keep in mind photography and its subject matter is a highly developed art form, this list is non-exhaustive, and doesn’t apply to fashion or artistic photography.

1. Don’t Sweat It. I’m sure microderm abrasion is doing wonders for you – but a matte face is best for your high-profile appearance. Save the dewy look for the beach or nightclub, it reads as grease or sweat in a photo. Men, I’m talking to you too. There are near-invisible powders and lotions that can instantly de-grease a face. Two of my favorites are Paula’s Choice Mattifying Concentrate and Origins Zero Oil. Everyone’s skin is different, so the best idea is to gather a bunch of samples from cosmetics counters, then test them out before committing.

2. Don’t Look Up. If a bandit with a camera tells you to look up at your ceiling and takes your photo from this angle, politely decline. This asinine pose is often recommended in attempts to make the subject look “fun” or “approachable.” Be assured, this shot is appropriate only for 9 year old girls vying for Orphan Annie in the community musical, or ironically, Playboy models. Nothing says “Don’t take me seriously” like this pose, akin to begging for table scraps. Plus, an upward angled chin only serves to spread your face out. Go ahead, try it in a mirror. Now, try tilting your head slightly downward. If you don’t overdo it, this should be a perfect angle for a photo. If you are worried about a double chin, that’s what make-up shading is for, trust me.

3. Listen to the Voices in Your Head. “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Well, make sure you’ve rehearsed your lines. A great photographer may pull a story out of you, but don’t rely on it. Create a story to go along with the image or personality you are trying to convey, then repeat it to yourself as you sit for the photo. It will come across on your face. If you don’t have a personality, make one up!

For example, when I played a Russian prince for Strauss’ opera, Die Fledermaus, I spent a lot of time imagining what a young man would talk like, act like, walk like. I taped down my boobs and shoved socks down my pants. For a photo shoot I don’t suggest such theatrics unless you are appearing in drag, but the point still stands: I was more of a “man” when I rehearsed the story and kept it in mind. So, you have to be thinking of something besides, “I’m uncomfortable and I’m going to look so fat in this photo.” Because then you will.

4. Become a Narcissist. Having confidence is an important trait that shows through in a photo. Not all people are born with an innate sense of self-worth, but it is a skill that can be learned. There is no way you can be in the public eye and not at least pretend you love yourself. I’ve struggled with low self-esteem my whole life, but I have learned to transform my thinking when I’m performing or speaking in public. If I can’t at least feign confidence, no one is going to take me seriously.

5. Observe and Mimic the Best. Make sure to ongoing-ly people-watch and imitate those who you are attracted to. I’m not talking about people who are good-looking, but people who carry themselves well, and look confident, comfortable, approachable. You can learn so much by observing successful people in their element. Then, observe yourself in a mirror or practice run-through with a helpful friend willing to take some snapshots. Most people don’t realize how awkward they look because they don’t rehearse ahead of time.