Facial Expression

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I had my daughter take a photo of me yesterday looking like I "naturally" look in everyday settings and I was actually kind of shocked at what I saw. I really looked sad/depressed even though I actually was rather neutral at that point.

I know that a flat/blunted affect can be a characteristic of people on the spectrum, but it seems to be niether mandatory nor even common - I'm beginning to wonder if it has nothing to do with my AS and may simply be "just me".

Is this something that people around here have a problem with? Does anyone have any suggestions to help me fix it?

It's really bothering me, a lot.

When people take pictures, I'm very mindful to smile. I do smile, laugh, etc.. without a camera. However, my "neutral" face apparent looks upset. I can sit somewhere completely indifferent and people will often ask "Are you okay?"

I'm usually okay. It's just me....

I also try to be mindful about how I express myself during gift giving. If I love a gift because of the sentimental meaning, I will smile. If it's just a practical gift that I like (and possibly even asked for), I can remain neutral and neutral looks upset. I've offended several with this.

I have had endless strangers pass comment on my facial expression too, the usual "cheer up", "who has died ?" etc. I now have a Tuo Viso facial toner machine which I use now and again but try every day when brushing my teeth to do facial exercises too.
This video is quite educational [the lipstick is optional].
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QmOTWhm6khc[/youtube]

I'm bad at reading facial expressions unless they're "standard". To me, this pic looks like you wanted to make a "goofy" face. I guess it wasn't your intention, but it doesn't seem "sad" to me.

my suggestion: talk to yourself in the mirror for 10-15 minutes a day.

The thing is that now you're aware of it you're able to consciously change it.

I had the same thing happen to me with seeing my image from a different point of view. I get reminded of it in the reflection of other people's expressions (on a good day when I'm more aware) so I will change accordingly myself. Sometimes my face just flat out feels heavy, 'specially if I have a lot on my mind.

I really have no idea what I look like to others when I'm neutral, but I do often get people trying to cheer me up. Sometimes I'm asked why I'm mad, too.

I think a lot about my facial expressions, which seems to help a little. Still, I doubt I'll ever find a 'fix' for it since it's my natural way of being.