How far should you hold the phone for a wide selfie?

By Con, founder of Music Wide Selfie · Updated 22 October 2026

Short answerAs far as your arm comfortably reaches, or further with a stand or selfie stick. Closer than about 30 cm exaggerates your nose and face; further gives more natural proportions and more background.

Why distance matters

Wide lenses enlarge whatever is nearest. Your nose is nearer the lens than your ears, so close up it looks bigger.

What works

Full arm’s length for solo selfies.
A short selfie stick for groups.
A stand and timer for full-body shots.

Height

Slightly above eye level, angled gently down.

Questions

Is a selfie stick worth it?

For groups and scenery, yes. Use it considerately in crowds.

A camera built for this

Music Wide Selfie is an iPhone camera app: the widest front view your iPhone supports, with your music still playing.

One email when the app is ready. Nothing else.