I'd be lying if I said I've never been tempted to destroy a picture because my eyes were closed or because the camera definitely added those ten pounds. I came across a few articles that answer that nagging question most of us have contemplated: Why does the camera add ten pounds? Blame it on lighting.

Slate says "The flat, even illumination on the red carpet makes it hard for the camera to capture dimension, unlike in a photo shoot with flattering soft lights. Cast from an angle, light creates shadows that sculpt the face and body by hiding unwanted flesh. Softer lights can hide wrinkles and smooth out the skin for women, while harsher lights on male faces exaggerate lines for a chiseled look. Without the aid of shadows, however, light exposes the imperfections of the face and body and makes the resulting image bigger and flatter." Thanks for the insightful explanation, Slate!

Unlucky for us, we don't have the luxury of having our own lighting technician casting light in all the right angles. Thankfully, the beauty section over at About put a list together revealing five red carpet secrets to looking thinner in photos. Here's the gist of the list:

• Turn partially sideways, planting one foot in front of the other.
• Pull your head forward to eliminate double chin.
• Hold arms slightly away from the body.
• Take a deep breath as you pull your shoulders back, chest forward.
• Look away from the camera, then turn towards it, breaking into a smile before the camera clicks.
• Wear an entire outfit of just one color.

Here's what I say: You're beautiful. Embrace every bit of yourself. Ten years from now, those "extra" pounds are not going to matter. What will matter is that a special moment with your friends and family was captured on film. 

But...if you're really that worried about looking slim in photos you could always try out one of those cameras that digitally enhances your figure, or this Photoshop tutorial. Any professional photographers out there willing to gives us a few more tips?

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