When you're out in the real world, the first thing you probably notice about someone is what he or she looks like. The same is true with online dating.
When first seeing your profile, a potential match hasn't met you yet and can only assume what you’re like. The better able you are to convey a “story” of yourself, the better someone will be able to picture themselves with you, and all the fun you’ll have on a date together. Here are some points to keep in mind when posting profile photos:
Post As Many Photos As Your Site Will Allow
Dating sites typically allow three-to-five photos on your profile, so you should have plenty of space to convey the right image to your potential matches. Remember that every space of your online profile is valuable, so use as much of it as you can to show what you're really like.
Use Current Photos
In general, make sure any photo you take is recent. We all get attached to certain pictures, but after a few years they aren’t going to reflect who you are right now.
Aim For a Relaxed Look
The main headshot should give an accurate representation of you without being too serious or stuffy. Your look should be relaxed as if you are sitting with an old friend.
Wear Something Comfortable But Tasteful
Dress as if you're going out on a date, but keep it on the casual side. Nothing to revealing or sloppy. Aim for "business casual" attire. A shirt or sweater that compliments your skin coloring and highlights your eyes will help give a positive impression of you. Try different outfits to see which ones flatter you the most.
Pay Attention to the Background
Make sure the background of your main photo doesn't compete with your face. Avoid standing in front of a dark background if your hair is dark or if you have a dark shirt on, as these will all blend together and you'll look like a floating head in the photo.
Use Lighting Wisely
Make sure your face can be seen clearly and that there are no shadows blocking you. Too often singles will place a photo taken outside, and the sun either covers part of their face or creates a shadow. Your smile and facial features need to be seen clearly in order for a potential date to take notice.
Use Photos That Relate to the Rest of Your Profile
The online dating world has a lot to do with impressions, so make sure you are giving a consistent message by using photos that show you from today – not a combination of photos from a few years back and some from the present day. Make sure that the pictures you use relate to the rest of your profile, and help illustrate the story you are telling about yourself.
Find out more: Online Dating 101
