Women, you've probably noticed that you don't look you best when viewing yourself from the built in camera on your computer or your cell phone.
That's because these cameras have poor image resolution qualities and use wide angle lenses, the worst type of lens for a close-up.
If you want to take your photo with a camera from your computer, then get a separate camera that attaches to your computer and has zoom capabilities.
This will allow you to zoom in for more of portrait type of close up without all the distortion of a wide angle lens and without a lot of needless objects vying for attention in the background.
Ladies when it comes to lighting remember this.
Try to use a big source for your light.
The best example would be to use the light from a large window on an overcast day.
This type of light is very soft and will be flattering to your image.
Try to have the light in front of you about 20 degrees to the right or left...
If you have your light coming from the position of your right or left shoulder the light will tend to emphasize texture or put another way, The light will bring out blemishes, derma, acne scars, and any lines in your face.
If you decide to take your photo outside on a sunny day then above all do not have the sun directly in front of you.
Not only is direct sunlight a "hard" light.
but you will be squinting which you don't want.
Position yourself so that the Sun is behind you giving you a nice hair light.
Your face will be in the soft light of shade and will have you looking good.
If you can find a dark background as well, you will have nice contrast in your shot.
If you have some one with you when taking this outside shot, bring along a 4 X 4 piece of white Foam core or art card that you can use in front of you to bounce some of the sunlight into your face as a soft light.
This card will also put little white catch lights in your eyes for a livelier portrait.