1. Ideally, go to an outdoor location or one with a lot of natural light.  Tell your friend, parent, lover, or whoever is manning that “point and shoot” to turn off the flash.
2. Stand up straight.
3. Turn your body at a 45 degree angle.
4. Place one foot slightly behind the other.
5. Pivot your shoulders and head to face the camera.
6. Be certain that the photographer is at eye level with you.  A picture taken from below can be distorting.  A picture taken from below makes you look short.
7. At the last moment turn your head away from the camera.
8. On the count of three quickly turn your head to the camera, with a big natural smile, and repeat to yourself, “I am a shining star.”
9. Snap. The photo is taken, and you appear natural, happy, and confident.

This can also be used to direct your subjects when you are taking the photos.