Official Military Photos - I hate them

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Nov 2014 21:15:32 -0500

So the other day (vets day to be exact) all my FB friends were posting pictures of themselves in uniform. Then one of my E-7 buddies posts his official photo... and GOD HOW I HATE THEM.

I'm generally a pretty happy guy, I smile a lot, and I joke a lot. But in ALL Official Photos people generally look pissed or like they were told their dog died. Don't get me wrong, they show a professional image, and are sharp... but can't we crack a smile or something?

Am I alone?

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 8:17 AM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 08:17:41 -0500

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member, I know just what you mean. I was always advised (1) not to look like a deer in the headlights and (2) not to smile, but to look serious in the photo. That was the general guidance that I heard throughout my career.

There's a new movement afoot, however, to smile in your official photo! At least in the Army, and at least according to SSG Scott Williams in this post:

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/smiling-in-your-da-photo

You might get some good advice there.

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Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 8:20 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Nov 2014 08:20:35 -0500

I smiled in mine. No one said anything about it.