Taking a selfie you can share on Instagram is usually way more complicated than just tapping that Shutter button on your phone. There’s a bit of a learning curve when it comes to any kind of photography. Luckily, though, there are some tips and accessories that can help you take Insta-worthy selfies every time.

Before you share a selfie on Instagram, you’ve likely taken dozens of photos from different angles and/or applied tons of different filters until you find one you like. However, once you’re armed with these basic photography tips and selfie-friendly accessories, you might never even need a filter again!

How to Take Awesome Selfies Every Time

There’s probably no one on the planet who can take one photo of themselves and post it online without a thought. Most of us take dozens of nearly identical selfies from slightly different angles before selecting one to share on social media.

These basic photography tips will help you get it right much more quickly and with fewer images to search through afterward:

• Know your angles: Experiment with different angles until you find one that works best for you. For most people, this will likely be from one side, rather than head-on. It also usually helps if you elevate your phone above you a bit, rather than holding it lower than your face.
• Make sure the lighting is right: Lighting is everything when it comes to photography. A dark, shadowy room won’t do you any favors, nor will direct sunlight. Choose a location that’s bright, but doesn’t make you look like a ghost. This is where ring lights can really come in handy, although natural light is almost always best.
• Extend your neck a bit: If you want to avoid that double-chin look, move your head up and outward a bit. It’s a small movement that can make a huge difference.
• If you smile, make sure it’s genuine: Not going for the pouty look? Smile, but make sure it’s real. When you fake a smile, it’s obvious and just looks unnatural. Think of something funny or a memory that makes you smile, and then snap that pic.
• Don’t over-edit: It’s easy to get carried away with the editing and make your skin look flawless and poreless, or use a filter that changes up the lighting, but don’t go too crazy. An over-edited photo almost always looks awkward and a bit off. Keeping things as natural as possible is definitely the way to go.

If you keep these photography basics in mind when taking your selfies, it’ll not only speed up the process, but you might find you take your best one ever! Especially if you have a few accessories to help you out, too.

Best Ring Light: Qiaya Selfie Light

A ring light illuminates your face just the right amount and comes in handy whenever you don’t have the option of natural light. You don’t have to worry about shadows when you use them either. This Qiaya Selfie Light is compact and super light, so you can easily throw it in your bag and attach it to your phone whenever you need it.

You can also adjust the brightness and choose different settings depending on what you’re focusing on in your photo. It’s also rechargeable via USB cord, so you won’t have to change the battery. The round shape creates a soft light on your face that’s not too harsh. You can also use it to illuminate your face in a dark room if you’re using your phone as a mirror.

Best Phone Tripod: Ubeesize Portable Phone & Camera Stand

When you want to capture a full-length image or action shot and no one else is around, you’ll need a tripod. This Ubeesize Phone Tripod will come in handy whenever you need an extra pair of hands. It features octopus style legs that are adjustable and can stand on a surface or even be wrapped around a handle or railing.

It’s also versatile and will hold either your phone, camera, or GoPro, so it’s not just for selfies. It’s small, easy to set up, and durable, so it will last. It even comes with a remote control so you won’t have to rely on a timer.

Best Camera Remote Control: CamKix Camera Shutter

Navigating a cell phone to take a photo and holding your head at the perfect angle can be tricky. Plus, if you’ve set your phone down somewhere or put it on a tripod, you’ll also have to set the photo timer. All of this can be annoying and time-consuming, which is exactly why a camera shutter remote, like this one from CamKix, really comes in handy.

It allows you to operate your phone’s camera easily from any distance. You also won’t have to contort your hand in weird positions just to use your cell phone camera. It works with Bluetooth, so it’s easy to connect and set up and is compatible with just about every device out there. Small and portable, you can literally take it anywhere.

Best Selfie Stick: Yoozon Selfie Stick & Phone Tripod

Would it even be a post about selfies without mentioning a selfie stick? Make fun of them all you want, but these tourist staples make it super simple to take photos of yourself and others without having to ask a stranger to do it for you. They’re ideal for vacations, but also just great for taking selfies, as they give you a bit more space and flexibility.

The Yoozon Selfie Stick is compatible with most phones, easy to use, and works with Bluetooth—it even has a detachable Bluetooth remote. It extends from 13.3-25.2 inches but folds up to a super-compact 7.55 inches.

The best thing about it, though, is that it’s a three-in-one selfie stick, phone tripod, and desktop phone holder. So, whether you’re taking selfies on vacay, trying to get a super-stable landscape shot, or joining a zoom meeting, the Yoozon selfie stick is a must-have.

Best Lighted Phone Case: LuMee Halo By Paris Hilton for iPhone 12

For those who don’t want to carry around a ring light but still want perfect lighting, there’s the LuMee Halo Phone Case. Like a ring light, it gives off a flicker-free, LED light to illuminate whatever you’re shooting.

The case lights up on both the front and back, which is really convenient and ensures you’ll always get the best pic. You can also adjust the brightness to suit the environment. In addition to the lighting, it’s also sturdy, durable, and will do a good job of protecting your phone. It has rubberized edges and comes in seven different finishes.

Best Finger Ring: Adura Three-in-One

You know when you’re trying to get the perfect selfie angle, but one wrong move will send your phone crashing to the ground? It’s precisely moments like these when a finger ring comes in handy. They attach to the back of your phone and give you more control so you won’t drop it.

The Adura Ring Holder is three accessories in one:  phone ring, desk stand, and car vent mount. It’s compatible with just about any cell phone, from Galaxy to iPhone, and is available in six different colors. It also rotates 360 degrees, and you can flip it 180 degrees. Oh yeah, and it comes with a lifetime limited warranty.

Best Phone Lenses: Criacr Lense Kit

Phone cameras have significantly improved over the years, but they still don’t compare to a legitimate camera. However, portable lenses, like this set by Criacr, can definitely help you create more professional-quality images.

The wide-angle lens expands the field of view, so you can include more in your photo, while the macro lens helps you get up close and personal with subjects. There’s also a 180-degree fisheye lens for capturing circular shots. They all attach easily to most cell phones.