There’s no denying that we humans are very visual creatures - how we see the world is crucial to how we experience it. Even if you are someone for whom looks aren’t everything, a poor quality photo isn’t really going to compel you to dig deeper into a prospective date’s profile.
So how do you present your best face to the world? Make sure your profile photo features just one person - you. Having others in your photo, even if they are close friends or family, can be distracting for the viewer, taking their attention from the main focus.
Don’t crop people out of your photo and use the most recent image you can find. If you don’t have anything suitable in your photo album, get a friend to take a shot for you. With a digital camera, you can keep shooting with a range of backgrounds and lighting levels until you get a selection of images you’re happy with.
If you’re female, using make-up is the right way to go. It’s not uncommon for people to look washed out in photos, especially when the flash is used. Make-up allows you to compensate for the camera’s inadequacies and highlight your best features. Don’t go too far and use professional glamour shots, though - you may think you look wonderful, but most guys will know they’re not seeing the real you - and that’s a turn-off.
Guys, don’t be tempted to include photos of your car, or your motorcycle, or your speedboat. You may be proud as punch of your thrill machine, but most women really couldn’t care less. They want to know what you look like - not the contents of your toybox.
Do include some photos of you doing things you love. If you’re a keen skier, add a favourite image of yourself on the slopes. If you love to travel, why not include one or two holiday snaps from your most memorable destinations. Be picky - remember our rules from above. Don’t just choose any old shot. Make sure it’s a good one and shows you in your best light.
These ‘action’ shots shouldn’t be your main profile picture, but they work well as an enhancement for your profile. For your main picture, try to go with a simple head and shoulders photo.
Dress is very important, especially for the girls. Put on something you normally wear and that you feel comfortable in. Don’t go getting all dolled up if that is something you only do once in a blue moon - you won’t feel natural and it will show in any photos. And don’t feel tempted to wear something too revealing - you’ll be sending the wrong message to prospective dates and setting yourself up to attract interest from all sorts of weirdos.
I’ve saved the best piece of advice for last. It’s a simple one: smile. Everyone responds more positively when they see or meet someone who is smiling, and the same happens with a dating profile photo. After all, you want to make a great impression and encourage people to take a closer look.
About the Author: This is a Guest Post by Dave Steffens , a dedicated webmaster and blogger who runs www.datingonlinecanada.ca. Dave contributes articles and blogs for a number of websites relating to free dating sites in Canada, singles chat rooms for men and women plus dating advice.
Image Courtesy: That OtherPaper, Flickr
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