Why Say “AI” Instead of “Cheese” to Smile in Front of a Camera?

While looking many podcasts and videos as well company pitches I have realized that when people say Aiii they come up with a large beautiful AI Smile. But why?

So is this by chance or there’s some physics behind it?

A smile, according to the Cambridge dictionary online, is a happy or friendly expression on the face in which the ends of the mouth curve up slightly, often with the lips moving apart so that the teeth can be seen.

The Tradition of Saying “Cheese” when taking a photo

Photographers have traditionally asked subjects to say “cheese” before snapping a picture. This trick works because pronouncing “cheese” naturally stretches your mouth into a small smile by activating your cheek muscles. This gives a subtle grin, just enough to make people look pleasant without needing a forced expression. It was a quick habit that became an easy way to shoot candid and happy-looking pictures, especially in group shots.

Why “AI” Could Create a Bigger Smile

It might be even more pleasant for your smile if you said the word “AI”. When you utter “AI”, it opens your mouth wider, engaging not only your cheek muscles but also stretching more of the other features of your face, such as your jaw and upper lip. This leads to a wider and more expressive smile-much closer to the kind of smile you would wear when genuinely thrilled or surprised. This takes your expression beyond the mere grin into an expression much more real.

Comparing “Cheese” and “AI” Smiles

While saying “cheese” (Cheeeeeseeee) gives you a light, controlled smile, saying “AI” (Aiiiiiiiii) introduces more dynamism into your expression.

 A “cheese” smile may hint at politeness. An “AI” smile, however, mirrors more genuine joy because it shows more teeth, thus making you look even friendlier and more alive. Similar to photo editing, AI tools work in enhancing expressions. AI-powered filters don’t just paste a smile on someone; they actually understand facial subtlety to create smiles that feel organic and believable, matching your face. In fact, this technology will make sure that the smiles appear real, whether that is a slight grin or an all-out expression of joy.

AI said to a camera yields that smile-much more open and spontaneous-so you can shine in photos. Maybe it is time to retire that old “cheese” trick and try “AI” the next time you are facing the lens.