How to Smoke a Cigar (and Take Stunning Photos) Like a Pro
Smoking a cigar is more than just lighting up and puffing away—it’s an art form, a ritual of relaxation, and a symbol of luxury. Done right, it’s an experience that requires patience, knowledge, and practice.
And let’s be honest—it looks damn cool in photos.
So whether you're a cigar aficionado or just looking to capture the perfect Havana moment, here’s your ultimate guide to smoking a cigar the right way and taking some epic pictures while you do it.
Choosing the Right Cigar
The first step? Pick the right cigar for you.
✅ Beginners: Start with a mild or medium-bodied cigar—full-bodied ones can be overpowering.
✅ Inspect before buying: A good cigar should have a smooth, blemish-free wrapper with no cracks or holes.
✅ Size matters: Longer, thicker cigars burn cooler and slower, while shorter, thinner ones burn faster and hotter.
💡 Pro tip: If you're in Havana, head to an official Casa del Habano store to guarantee authenticity.
Cutting Your Cigar Like a Gentleman (or Lady)
Cutting a cigar the wrong way can ruin the experience. Here’s how to do it right:
🔪 Use the right tool—a guillotine cutter, punch cutter, or cigar scissors.
✂️ Cut just below the cap—too much and the cigar will unravel; too little and you’ll struggle to draw smoke.
💡 Pro tip: If you're unsure, ask someone in a cigar lounge to cut it for you—better safe than sorry!
Lighting It the Right Way
🔥 Forget your regular Bic lighter! To avoid ruining the cigar’s taste, use:
A butane torch lighter
Long wooden matches
A cedar spill
✅ Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle.
✅ Toast the foot by letting the flame come close without touching it.
✅ Rotate the cigar as you puff gently to ensure an even burn.
How to Smoke a Cigar Like a Boss
Now that it’s lit, let’s talk about proper technique:
🚫 Don’t inhale—cigar smoke is meant to be savored, not taken into your lungs.
🍷 Slow, steady puffs—one every 30-60 seconds to avoid overheating the cigar.
🔄 Rotate as you smoke to ensure an even burn.
💡 Pro tip: Let the ash build up to about an inch before gently tapping it off—this helps maintain a steady burn.
Pairing Your Cigar with the Perfect Drink
A great cigar deserves a great pairing. Follow this golden rule:
🥃 Full-bodied cigars → Whiskey, dark rum, aged tequila
🍷 Medium-bodied cigars → Red wine, bourbon, dark beer
🍹 Light cigars → White wine, gin cocktails, light beer
Taking Stunning Cigar Photos (Like a Pro)
You’ve got your cigar. You’re in Havana. Now let’s make that moment Instagram-worthy.
📸 Lighting is Everything
Avoid harsh direct flash—it washes out details.
Use soft natural light or a warm indoor glow for a moody effect.
Position yourself by a window or in a well-lit lounge.
🎭 Play with Composition & Angles
Close-up shots of cigar bands and textured wrappers look amazing.
Smoke swirling around your face? Pure cinematic magic.
Try low angles to create a powerful, dramatic shot.
🌫️ Capture the Smoke
Use a slow shutter speed to highlight smoke trails.
Experiment with backlighting to make the smoke pop.
🛠️ Props & Aesthetic
A glass of whiskey, a well-worn book, or a vintage lighter can add depth.
Dark wood tables, leather chairs, and dim lighting scream classic Havana style.
💡 Want to find the best photo spots in Havana? Check out our Havana Instagram Guide!
Final Thoughts
Smoking a cigar the right way isn’t just about looking cool (though, let’s be honest, it helps). It’s about patience, appreciation, and the full sensory experience—from the first cut to the last puff.
🔥 Want to capture that perfect Havana cigar moment? Book a professional photoshoot with us, and we’ll take you to the best hidden spots in the city—vintage cars, elegant lounges, and breathtaking sunset backdrops.
📸 Let’s make your Havana memories unforgettable.