Say Cheese: Tips for Your Profile Photo
Your dating profile is essentially an advertisement for you, and your profile photo is the first thing people will notice. If you put some thought into choosing a photo, you will have more success in attracting the right person’s attention. The following are a few tips to help you out.
1. Post a photo
Most people skip over a profile that has no photo. Many will think you don’t like the way you look, or you have something to hide (like being married). Before initiating contact, men and women want to see a photo in order to see if there is an initial attraction. If you are concerned with privacy, at least state in your profile that you are willing to share a photo with someone who is interested in talking further.
2. Don't be shy, show your face
Maybe you have a great photo of you on a motorcycle in your aviators, but that’s not a good profile picture. You need to show your eyes and face for people to get a decent idea of what you look like. Avoid hats and sunglasses, and don’t have the picture taken so far away that someone wouldn’t be able to recognize you when they meet you in person.
3. Get someone else to take your picture
When you reach your arm out and take your own photo, it’s rarely a flattering shot. Webcam pictures are also not ideal, because they are usually grainy and cast weird shadows on your face. If you don’t have any decent photos of yourself, ask a friend to take your picture.
4. Put your best face forward
Choose a photo that shows you properly groomed and in a flattering outfit. You wouldn’t show up for a first date in your bum around the house gear, so don’t let that image be the first impression for people viewing your profile. Since you are looking for a serious relationship, don’t post a photo that shows you in a provocative pose or not fully dressed.
5. Post a recent photo
I’ve heard many stories that involve a first date from a dating site showing up looking nothing like their photos online. Be honest with your image, and don’t post an old picture where you are high school skinny or had a lot more hair. You won’t fool anyone once you meet them, so there’s just nothing to gain in that approach. Love yourself the way you are!
6. Be a solo act
Your main profile photo needs to focus solely on you, so don’t use your favorite picture of you and your friends. Do not post a photo of you with your ex, where you have cut them out but we can still see their arm around you. This does not send a positive message to those viewing your photo. Also, do not include your children in the photo. This can possibly put them in an unsafe situation, and they deserve their privacy.
