The Duchenne Smile

The most cherished candid photos feature the 'Duchenne smile,' a genuine expression that contracts both the zygomatic major muscle and the orbicularis oculi muscle. While posed photos often result in fake 'pan am' smiles involving only the mouth, true joy creates crinkles around the eyes. We instinctively treasure candids more because our brains are wired to instantly recognize these micro-expressions of authentic happiness.