How to Photobomb like a Cumberbitch

There's a reason the man has a following. Sure, he's a great actor, performing in the Best Picture of the year, 12 Years A Slave . Yes, he plays an endearing yet clinical Sherlock Holmes in BBC's Sherlock. And yes, he has probably the coolest name of a working actor today, but the man is also an exceptional photo taker. Don't believe us? Just take a look at photos from Sunday night's Academy Award ceremony. While he popped up in photos everywhere, having a prime seat in the 12 Years area of the Oscars arena, Cumberbatch took full advantage of the plethora of flashing cameras.

And this couldn't be better exemplified than in his delicious photobomb of rock legends U2 on the Oscars red carpet. The unassuming band struck a pose as cameras clicked, and Benedict Cumberbatch just couldn't help himself. With his spritely feet, his enthusiastic jazz hands, and an open-mouth expression that read, "IT'S ME!" he simply nailed the art of photobombing in one fell swoop. But how does one achieve such an awesome level of photobomb prowess? While we can't all be as coordinated as the man himself, here are a few tips and tricks on how to photobomb like the original Cumberbitch.

STEP 1: Get to higher ground

When the subjects of the photo are situated in the foreground, taking up all of the camera's bottom frame, it is paramount that you make use of the higher, empty spaces. Just like Cumberbatch, appearing above your subjects is a good place to aim for. This means utilizing a near by stool, a chair, or even some very high-heels. And when all else fails, jump!

STEP 2: Dress the part

This step is very important. You don't want to draw attention to yourself before or after the photo is taken, but you do want to stand out enough that you're well-timed photobomb will be recognized and applauded when audiences finally see the masterpiece. Bright colors are good, but only when appropriate. In Cumberbatch's case, because he was required to dress in black tie formal, he relied on animated facial and hand expressions to compensate for lack of a colorful wardrobe.

STEP 3: Wait for the opportune moment

While you will never know exactly when the photo will be taken, look for clues. Is the person snapping the photo prompting the group to say, "Cheese!" or counting down? These are good indications.

STEP 4: Assume desired hand placement and facial expression

In the eternal words of Eminem: "Look, if you had one shot, or one opportunity, to seize everything you ever wanted, one moment — would you capture it or just let it slip?" Well we all know the answer to that: you'd capture it, wouldn't you, Cumberbitches? And that's why preparation is key! Stretch those fingers and widen those smiles, you're about to change the landscape of this photograph forever.

STEP 5: Jump into the frame precisely one second before the shutter clicks

STEP 6: Resume non-chalant, casual behavior

Taking a flawless photo is only half the battle. Walking away from snapshot without its original subjects knowing you've invaded is key. The "Ah ha!" moment when they see your beaming face in the background will be well worth it.