3 Types of Profile Pictures to Avoid

unhappy woman

Don’t judge a book by its cover. We’ve all heard the saying, right? However, in the online dating world, a picture is often the first impression you get of someone. Picking a great profile picture is key to success in your online dating profile.

Your profile photo is the first glance someone gets of you. How you carry yourself and the energy your photo gives off is important to drawing someone in for conversation.

How you present yourself online through your photos matters! You want your profile and profile photos to help you find someone online. Put the time and effort in your photos and online dating profile, it will help draw in and attract the right person.

Here’s a handful of suggestions of dating profile pictures to avoid.

The selfie

selfie

When I see selfies on a dating profile, I start to lose interest. Pictures tell a lot about a person, their life, and their interests. If someone isn’t putting in the effort to share decent profile photos, it leaves me unimpressed. Now that may sound harsh, but remember, pictures are your initial perception of an individual. So put your best foot forward.

If you have to have one selfie because it is that great of a picture, just don’t take it in a mirror. And for the love, please don’t take a selfie in the bathroom!

A photo that doesn’t show your face

man looking to the scenery

Men and women who have profiles on online dating sites want to know who they are talking to. Not having photos of yourself on a dating profile is just crazy. A beautiful backdrop is great, but stunning landscapes of pictures of the sunset shouldn’t occupy your entire profile, especially the first photo that someone sees of you on an online dating app.

Having no pictures on your profile makes it look like you have something to hide. Take the time to have great photos of yourself that make you feel good about yourself. It is always worth the effort and time.

The group photo

group photo

I’ve noticed sometimes that people include group shots in their profiles. Having a group photo as your profile photo (or too many in your profile!) can have you get lost in the crowd. Your unique profile stands out less.

If you’res especially keen on a particular group photo, make sure it is not the first impression someone gets of who you are. Group shots can tend to confuse those viewing your profile for the first time. Having one or two fun group photos is okay, but too many can create an unnecessary distraction.

So if those are the photos to avoid, which photos should you include? Here are some photos sure to make a good first impression when it comes to your online dating profile.

Start with you

portrait of woman

Your first photo should be of you – and only you. Make sure it is the most flattering picture of yourself, the one that makes you feel great about you. Put your best foot forward and share your best smile!

Share your interests and passions

hobby

Have two three photos that show you taking part in an activity, perhaps a hobby or sport that you really enjoy. Be casual, confident, and carefree. Allow your personality to shine through and help people see the real you.

Don’t be afraid to be yourself

cool man

A full or medium body shot against an interesting background or outdoors. Some dating websites say that a full-body photo of yourself increases the number of messages you receive by 203%!

Remember to use group photos sparingly

group photo

Have one or two group photos, but no more than that! Do you have great pictures from your summer trip to Europe or the fun photo from your family reunion? A great group photo can help demonstrate a love of life and carefree spirit.

If you have an online dating profile, that means you are interested and desiring to find the right partner in life. Paying attention to the little, yet important details on your profile (like a great profile photo!) can help take your dating profile from good to great!

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