slantneck

Slantneck is a term used in online photography, fashion, and social media to describe a specific head and neck pose in which the neck is inclined to one side. In this pose, the head tilts toward a shoulder while the face is angled toward the camera, creating a diagonal line from the shoulder to the jaw.

While not a medical term, slantneck has become a recognizable aesthetic in portraits and selfies. It is often employed to emphasize the jawline, cheekbones, and eye contour, and can be combined with variations such as a slightly lowered chin or a turned gaze. The term is used across platforms, sometimes appearing in caption tags or tutorial guides describing “slant neck pose” or “tilted head pose.”

Origins of the term appear in online communities and fashion photography circles in recent years; there is no formal definition in medical or scholarly literature. It is distinct from medical conditions such as torticollis, which involve involuntary neck muscle contractions that cause a persistent neck tilt.

Health and accessibility considerations include the potential for neck strain if the pose is held repeatedly or for long periods, especially for individuals with preexisting neck pain or limited mobility. Creators are advised to prioritize comfort, vary poses, and avoid prolonged tilting to reduce strain.

See also: torticollis; posture; portrait photography; pose.