How to Choose a Dating Profile Picture
Your profile picture is the online equivalent of your first impression, so you want it to be not just good, but great. Learn how to select the most flattering picture you can.
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You Will Need
- Pictures of yourself
- Camera
- Critical eye
- Interesting backgrounds (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Show yourself
Use a current picture of yourself. Don't post anything that is more than 2 years old.
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As general rule, you should post a well-lit picture that shows your face, but photos that don't show a face can work, as long as they are intriguing enough to make people want to know more about you.
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Step 2
Make it snappy
Use a candid snapshot in which you look relaxed and flirty, instead of a formal portrait or yearbook picture.
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Cellphone camera shots have been shown to result in just as many new contacts as regular photos.
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Step 3
Think about background
Ask yourself what the photo's background says about you. A beautiful outdoor location, or an exotic background are appealing, while a bathroom or a bar background may not place you in the best possible light.
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Step 4
Bare your assets
Don't be afraid to let your best assets show. As long as you keep it subtle and classy, it never hurts to show 'em what you've got.
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Step 5
Look approachable
Make your facial expression friendly and approachable. If you're a woman, look directly at the camera with an easy smile or a "come-hither" expression.
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You don't have to smile in every photo. Play around with other facial expressions.
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Step 6
Be interesting
Show something interesting in your photo, such as a bookshelf or a pet. A sexy photo may get you lots of contacts, but it won't start a conversation.
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Step 7
Avoid common mistakes
Avoid common mistakes, like wearing too much or too little makeup, appearing intoxicated, making upside-down peace signs, or posing with your ex. Your dance card will be full before you know it.
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According to a survey by British research agency YouGov, 62 percent of singles over 55 were looking for love online, compared to 21 percent of singles aged 18 to 24.
