As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. This is especially true when it comes to online dating websites.
Like it or not, men are extremely visual, looking mostly at the pictures and less at the profile information. That’s why it is so important to choose a great photo that represents the real you online.Here are the five rules of your online dating photos:
1. Upload at least two pictures of yourself
Posting just one picture of your face is not really a giving a clear idea of what you look like. If you have a good headshot photo make the second picture a full body image. If you decide to meet people in real life, they are going to see your body anyway, so you why not show it all upfront in a full length body photo of yourself so that you don’t get any time wasters. A good picture will give people a good idea of your personality as well, which can also be a positive thing.
2. Use a professional photographer to take a good casual picture
A professional photographer has the artistic vision and experience to give you the best possible image. A good photo will help you attract more attention than the mundane selfies and it can get you noticed quicker by your potential partner.
You don’t have to spend a fortune these days. Voucher websites like Groupon, Wowcher and Living Social always have deals for photoshoots and for £20-30 you might even get a makeover thrown in there, too.
3. Avoid group shots
Don’t post photos that include your male or female friends, grown children, or your parents. It’s confusing to people who don’t know you, trying to figure out which one you are. Believe it or not, men will think you’ve posted a photo with an ex, even if he looks 30 years older or younger than you are. You also don’t want to upload pictures of friends and family into dating sites without their consent.
4. Be honest and use a current picture
Make sure your photo looks like you do right now. You won’t do yourself any favours by adding photos that are older than three or four years. If you’ve ever been on a date and have been shocked that the person looks nothing like his profile photo, you’ll not want to give that impression to someone else. The purpose of online dating is to get a date in real life. So don’t lie about your appearance. Sooner or later they’ll find out the truth, anyway. It can save a lot of time and uncomfortable dates by being open and upfront. If you are you’re more likely to attract the same type of people.
5. The first picture should be a clear shot of your face
If your main photo is either too far away or blurry, it may look like you’re hiding something. So make sure your face fills up most of the picture frame. No one wants to use a magnifying glass to get a good look at you. They’ll be trawling through a number of profiles and if yours is too much hard work it will get left behind.
