Only you can stop bad campaign photos.

When the picture was taken of General Eisenhower as he addressed his troops with resolve, notice where his hands were. They sure as hell weren’t in front of his..er, “Little General.”

So, why in the heck do politicians insist on posing as if they were buck naked and had something to hide.

It’s commonly termed the “fig leaf” photo. Hands clasped, resting in front of you. It feels natural for you to rest your arms in this position. Except for people of normal arm length, the hands just happen to end up in an embarrassing place. Plenty of politicians get in trouble for having that thing uncovered, so quit drawing attention to it.

It’s so bad and so prevalent, Campaigns and Elections magazine included the problem in an article on campaign photography several years ago. On occasion, when I’ve done campaign photography for people, I’ve actually had to yell at them “GET YOUR HANDS OUT FROM IN FRONT OF YOUR ___!” I usually only have to tell them once.

What appears to be a more natural looking pose?

Standing military style with your arms resting straight down at the sides. It doesn’t feel natural, but it looks just fine. In fact, if you have to show your hands, it’s some of the best photography you can take. It looks clean and professional. No "self-hugs", or hand poised introspectively under your chin. Hands at your sides.

While we’re at it, smile. I can’t tell you how many campaign photographs I’ve seen that look like the mug shots they show witnesses on Law and Order. “Is this the perp, maam?” “No, I think that’s my state senator.”

How much can it hurt to smile? It makes you look friendly, and open to people. You know, friendly and open? Those qualities you want to project to the voters? You know, those voting type voters that want to vote for you? Yes, those people.

So smile, and remember to keep your hands to yourself. And off yourself.