Why do we say cheese when taking a picture? This simple question unlocks a curious and amusing glimpse into cultural habits, psychology, and the art of photography. The phrase “say cheese” has become a universal cue to prompt smiles in photos, but what exactly lies behind this quirky tradition? In this article, we’ll explore the origins, psychological reasons, and cultural aspects of why saying “cheese” helps us capture those perfect moments.
Why Do We Say Cheese When Taking a Picture? The Origins Explained
The phrase “say cheese” is used universally to get people to smile naturally during photo shoots. It wasn’t invented just to be funny—it has practical roots. The earliest known use of the phrase dates back to the early 20th century when photographers wanted a word that would encourage the shape of a smile.
The Phonetic Secret
The word “cheese” contains a long “ee” sound that stretches the mouth horizontally, resembling a smile. When people say “cheese,” their lips pull back, showing their teeth and creating the illusion of happiness, even if they aren’t genuinely feeling joyful.
Historical Context
Before cameras became widespread, posing for pictures was a stern affair, often leading to unnatural and serious expressions. Photographers needed a simple trick to coax people into looking happier and more relaxed.
- The word “cheese” was short, easy to say, and universally recognizable.
- The “ee” sound naturally positioned the mouth in a way that resembled a smile.
- Photographers popularized the phrase to make subjects appear happier.
The Psychology Behind Saying Cheese When Taking a Picture
Beyond phonetics, the psychology of smiling plays a big role in why “say cheese” has stuck around.
Forcing a Smile Can Trigger Actual Happiness
Studies suggest that physically forming a smile—even if it’s initially fake—can stimulate the brain to release mood-enhancing chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. Saying “cheese” encourages the smile muscles to activate, potentially helping people feel happier in the moment.
Social Bonding and Positive Memories
The phrase also works as a social cue. When someone says “say cheese,” it signals a shared moment of joy and can make group photos feel more connected and lighthearted.
Cultural Variations of Saying Cheese When Taking a Picture
Although “say cheese” is common in English-speaking countries, other cultures have their own words or phrases that serve the same purpose.
- Japan: People often say “chiizu,” a borrowed pronunciation of “cheese,” or “posu”.
- France: The phrase “ouistiti” (meaning “marmoset”) is used to achieve a smiling expression.
- Spain: People often say “diga patata” (say potato) to get a smile.
- China: The word “qie zi” (meaning “eggplant”) is used to stretch the mouth, encouraging a smile.
Practical Tips on Saying Cheese When Taking a Picture
If you want to master the art of smiling naturally in photos, saying “cheese” is a good start, but there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Relax Your Face: Loosen up your facial muscles before saying “cheese” to avoid a forced smile.
- Think Happy Thoughts: Genuine smiles come from feeling positive emotions.
- Practice Different Expressions: Try different vowel sounds or words that suit your own smile naturally.
- Eye Smile: The eyes contribute a lot to an authentic smile; try to engage them.
Conclusion
The question “why do we say cheese when taking a picture?” reveals more than just a silly habit. It’s a blend of phonetic trickery, psychological influence, and cultural evolution, all aimed at capturing happiness in a still moment. Next time you hear “say cheese,” you’ll know it’s a clever way to shape your mouth, spark a smile, and create a joyful memory frozen in time.
