Get the perfect Facebook picture

You know you're living in the digital age when the first thing you say on getting a nice picture taken is: 'That's a perfect Facebook picture!' (Who cares about Kodak moments, anyway?)

After all, the whole word (read: prospective mothers-in-law, bosses, Exs, old school friends you NEVER want to talk to but want to impress) judges you on the basis of that one picture.

So that's why the hunt for the perfect 'Facebook picture' has become a (secret) obsession.

Here are some ideas that will help you create the perfect Facebook picture:

Get a professional makeover

At all stand-alone makeup stores such as M.A.C., Estee Lauder and Lancome, highly-trained assistants are happy to give you a demo of their products. So, demand one! Ask them to show you how to apply concealer, eye shadow, blush and gloss, and volia! You're ready to be photographed for a social networking site-worthy picture.
But be warned, you will have to buy some of the makeup you try on!

Organise a photoshoot

It's really not that hard! You can do it on your day off from work/in the holidays after your exams or when your kids are away on a school picnic. And it probably won't cost you a rupee.
Here's how to go about it: Find the perfect location. In Mumbai, try the Bandra Fort (most recently seen in Karthik Calling Karthik, you'll get a lovely view of the sea and sea link); in Delhi, see if you can try the steps of Jamma Masjid a la Kareena Kapoor in Kurbaan; and the bandstand in Bangalore's Cubbon Park is a great spot! Next, talk your sister's best friend's photographer boyfriend (or anyone who can take a nice picture) to take some good photos!

And please wear something appropriately chic! Pick the best one and upload!

Get 'snapped' with someone famous

Don't let the restraining order Shah Rukh Khan has against you come in your way. Try photo imaging software instead! Just remember, to make it believable, you and the star of your choice (Hrithik Roshan, Salman Khan, Brad Pitt, George Clooney) should fit together in the frame like two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.

What else you can do

It's alright if the camera doesn't love you as much as it loves, say, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. There are still lots of options open to you.
Tilt your head, let your hair fall prettily across your face and allow the camera a view of that side of your face it loves best.

Or better yet, allow ALL your hair to cover your face - it's very goth chic!

Or, take inspiration from American artist Andy Warhol and make your picture into pop art like that of Marilyn Monroe! (See demo pic!)

Do you have any other ideas to create the perfect Facebook picture? Leave a comment and let us know!