Oblong Face ShapeTraits, photo tips, and how to identify yours
Oblong (rectangular) faces are noticeably longer than wide with a straight cheek line and forehead, jaw, and chin of similar width. The elongated silhouette benefits from horizontal framing — bangs, wide collars, and camera angles that add visual width.
Not sure if this is your shape? Try our Face Shape Analyzer, the Face Analyser, or Smile Analyzer.
Key Traits of Oblong Face Shape
- ✦Face length significantly greater than width
- ✦Forehead, cheekbones, and jaw roughly equal width
- ✦Straight sides with minimal cheek taper
- ✦Chin may be rounded or slightly square
- ✦Can appear similar to oval but more elongated
Photo Tips for Oblong Face Shape
- 📸Shoot at eye level — avoid angles that stretch vertical length
- 📸Horizontal framing (shoulders visible) adds visual width
- 📸Avoid tight vertical crops that emphasise length
- 📸Relaxed jaw prevents elongating the lower face further
Related Face Shapes
Oval Face Shape
Oval faces are longer than they are wide, with a gently rounded jaw and forehead that taper evenly toward the chin. Often called the 'ideal' reference in Western proportion guides, oval shapes balance length and width — making them versatile for hairstyles, glasses, and camera angles.
Square Face Shape
Square faces feature a strong, angular jawline roughly equal in width to the forehead and cheekbones. The bold geometry reads as confident and structured — a shape common among models and actors who photograph well in dramatic lighting.
Diamond Face Shape
Diamond faces are narrow at the forehead and chin with the widest point at the cheekbones. The rare, angular silhouette creates striking bone structure in photos — especially when side lighting emphasises cheek prominence.
FAQ — Oblong Face Shape
What is an oblong face shape?
An oblong face is longer than it is wide with straight sides and a forehead, cheekbones, and jaw of similar width. It is sometimes called a rectangular face.
Oblong vs oval — what's the difference?
Both are longer than wide, but oblong faces have straighter sides and less cheek taper. Oval faces curve more gently and may appear slightly shorter.
How do I shorten an oblong face in photos?
Use eye-level camera angles, include horizontal elements in frame, and avoid chin-down poses. Bangs and side volume also add perceived width.