Why Do People Say Say Cheese When Taking A Picture

Have you ever wondered why people say "Say cheese!" just before capturing a photograph? This phrase has become a universal cue to prompt subjects to smile and look their best in photos. But where did this tradition originate, and why has it persisted across cultures and generations? In this article, we will explore the history behind the phrase "Say cheese," its significance in photography, and how it evolved into a common social ritual.

The Origins of Saying "Say Cheese"

The phrase "Say cheese" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, particularly within the realm of professional photography. Its primary purpose was to encourage people to smile naturally while being photographed. The idea was to produce a consistent, pleasant facial expression that would look good in photographs, which was especially important in an era when photography was less spontaneous and more formal.

Why "Cheese"? The Linguistic and Cultural Roots

The choice of the word "cheese" is not arbitrary. When people say "cheese," they are prompted to form a smile by stretching their lips into a shape similar to the grin associated with the word. The sound of "cheese" causes the speaker to lift their cheeks and stretch their lips, naturally creating a smiling expression.

Additionally, the word "cheese" contains a long "ee" sound, which helps to keep the lips spread and teeth visible, resulting in a more photogenic smile. This phonetic effect makes "cheese" an ideal word for eliciting a genuine smile in a quick, easy manner.

The Evolution of the Phrase in Photography

The use of "say cheese" became popular in the mid-20th century, especially in North America. Photographers, both amateur and professional, adopted the phrase as a standard prompt to get their subjects to smile. The phrase's simplicity and effectiveness contributed to its widespread adoption.

Over time, "say cheese" became embedded in popular culture, appearing in movies, television shows, and everyday conversations. It became synonymous with the act of taking a photo and smiling for the camera.

The Role of Smiling in Photography

Smiling is a universal sign of happiness and friendliness. When people smile in photographs, they appear more approachable, attractive, and genuine. Photographers often encourage subjects to smile because it enhances the overall aesthetic and emotional appeal of the picture.

However, not everyone finds it easy to smile naturally on command. That’s why phrases like "Say cheese" serve as a helpful prompt to trigger a smile, even if it’s somewhat forced at first. Genuine smiles, often called "Duchenne smiles," involve the muscles around the eyes as well as the mouth, but the initial "say cheese" helps initiate the process.

Alternatives to "Say Cheese"

While "say cheese" remains the most popular phrase, there are other prompts used around the world to elicit smiles in photographs, such as:

• "Smile!": A simple, direct command that encourages a relaxed, genuine smile.
• "Say whiskey" or "Say whiskey!": Similar to "say cheese," but less common, used in some regions.
• "Say bananas": A playful alternative often used with children.
• "Say peanut butter and jelly": A humorous phrase to make kids laugh and smile.
• "Say potato": A quirky prompt used in certain areas to get a smile.

Different cultures and photographers may adopt unique phrases based on linguistic and cultural preferences, but "say cheese" remains the most iconic worldwide.

The Impact of Technology on Photography Phrases

With the advent of digital photography and smartphones, taking pictures has become more spontaneous and less formal. Despite this, the tradition of prompting a smile with phrases like "say cheese" persists, especially in staged or family photos.

Some modern photographers and individuals now use photo apps with built-in prompts or filters that automatically encourage smiling or add funny effects. Nonetheless, the phrase "say cheese" continues to evoke nostalgia and is often used in casual settings to make photo-taking more fun.

The Psychology Behind Smiling and Saying "Cheese"

Research in psychology indicates that smiling can influence a person's mood positively, even if the smile is forced initially. The act of smiling can trigger the release of endorphins, making people feel happier. When prompted to "say cheese," individuals often adopt a cheerful expression, which can lead to a genuine smile over time.

This psychological effect underscores why phrases like "say cheese" are effective—they not only elicit a visual smile but can also improve the emotional state of the subject, making the photograph more authentic and pleasant.

Conclusion

The phrase "say cheese" has become an enduring part of photographic culture, rooted in the desire to capture joyful, attractive images. Its origins lie in phonetics and practical photography techniques, designed to produce a natural-looking smile. Over the decades, it has transcended language barriers and cultural differences, becoming a universal cue for happiness in photos.

Whether used with children, friends, or family, saying "cheese" has a charming simplicity that continues to bring smiles and create memories. As technology and social norms evolve, the core idea behind "say cheese" remains relevant—encouraging positivity and connection through the simple act of smiling for the camera.

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