More and more politicians are getting in on the selfie act so we’ve compiled an extremely useful guide to help them perfect the artform.

1. Ensure maximum cuteness

If at all possible, ensure a small baby or animal is in the shot. The chubbier the child or fluffier the animal, the higher those poll ratings.*

If your canine companion looks anything like America first dog Bo, you’re on to a winner.

*not scientifically proven

 America First Lady Michelle Obama and family dog Bo.

2. Increase the star power

If posing with a celebrity, try to ensure their name can be merged with yours in a seamless fashion. I give you, Lilliband:

lilyallen lilyallen

Lily Allen and British Labour Leader Ed Miliband.

 Chatshow hosts can have a similar impact.

Jimmy Kimmel and the Clintons.

Has anyone got Ryan Tubridy’s number?

3. Jump on the bandwagon

If it’s good enough for Ellen, it’s good enough for our deputy leader, damn it.

Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore poses for an Oscars-inspired selfie. Source: Gary Lyons

4. Use multiple phones

You never know when your battery might run out, leaving the confused world to wonder what you looked like at that exact second.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Source: Michael Sohn

5. Remember selfie-etiquette at all times

Selfies at a funeral? In a word: don't.

This point should prove particularly useful for Irish politicians given the sheer amount of funerals they have to attend.

6. Get your colleagues involved

It is the European UNION, after all.

EU Commission members.

7. Mix it up

Don't be a one-trick-pony selfie subject.

Source: Lynne Cameron/Press Association Images

Take a leaf from Taoiseach Enda Kenny's book and mix your fun, bright snaps with moody, angular shots.

Source: @jsphbnkn

Changing your facial expression is another handy trick to keep those photos fresh.

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Go forth and pose.

Read: The Pope is OK with selfies

Look: 14 outrageous selfies that prove selfies need to stop

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