Why do people say cheese when they get their picture taken?

The saying "cheese" when getting your picture taken is a long-standing tradition, but the exact reason why isn't entirely clear. Here are some popular theories:

1. The "Cheese" Smile:

* A natural smile: The "ee" sound in "cheese" naturally stretches the mouth into a smile-like shape. This is a way to create a more natural and relaxed smile compared to a forced grin.

* The "Say cheese" instruction: The phrase "Say cheese" became a popular way to encourage a smile, possibly because it's simple and easy to remember, even for children.

2. The "Cheese" History:

* Early photography: In the early days of photography, exposure times were long, and people had to hold still for a long time. Saying "cheese" was a way to keep the subject's mouth open and prevent their face from becoming blurry.

* 19th century: The phrase "Say cheese" might have originated in the 19th century when photographers used to use a flash that could be a bit startling. Saying "cheese" helped subjects relax and avoid blinking or flinching.

3. The "Cheese" Myth:

* No official evidence: While the above theories are widely accepted, there's no official proof or documentation to confirm the exact origin of "Say cheese."

Ultimately, "Say cheese" has become a common phrase and a cultural tradition for capturing a smile in photos. While the exact reason might be a bit mysterious, it works!