The best first photo on dating apps: 5 Essential tips
Let's face it: online dating can feel like a jungle. You scroll through profiles, swiping left and right, hoping for that one perfect match. But how do you make sure your profile stands out? It all starts with your first picture. Yes, that one photo can make the difference between no tindermatches and lots of tindermatches. Whether you're an experienced dater or just starting out, good photos for dating can really make all the difference. Here are five simple but oh-so-effective tips to make sure your first photo grabs attention (in the right way).
1. Keep it Simple
Less is more, people! We've all seen profiles where you have to zoom in or figure out who it is. Please don't do this. Choose a photo where you look relaxed and friendly. A simple smile but not hysterical. Forget the weird poses, unless you really want someone to think you are stuck in a human knot. Good dating photos show who you really are without too much fuss.
2. No Face Covering Clothing
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people think they look like a mysterious superhero wearing a cap and sunglasses. Newsflash: no one wants to date a shadowy character from a detective movie. Show your face! It should be obvious at a glance who you are and what you look like. So leave those hats and sunglasses at home (unless you're a secret agent, then it might be okay).
3. NEVER shoot it in a Studio
Studio photos you can save for your LinkedIn profile because there is nothing that comes across as more try hard, static, plastic and posed than studio photos. Surely this is where so many ''dating photographers'' AKA photographers who happen to offer a small dating package on the site go wrong. Instead, go outside to a place where you feel comfortable. A park, river or even the street from your own home can work. The key is to come across as relaxed. Plus, outdoor photos always have that beautiful, natural light. Which is often less dramatic/try-hard than studio light.
4. Don't Wear Bright Colors or Weird Prints
Imagine this: you have a great photo of yourself, but you're wearing a T-shirt with a neon green flamingo wearing sunglasses. No one is going to look past that flamingo. Keep your clothes simple and neutral. Let the attention go to your face, not your psychedelic wardrobe purchased by your mother 5 years ago. Unless your Tinder-match is a fashion expert, then it might work. But still, rather not.
5. Have it Made by a Professional
This is the one tip you should take seriously. Invest in a professional photographer who knows what he or she is doing with online dating photography. It just ensures that you can take all the stress out of getting a good result. Consider a Tinder photo shoot or a photo shoot specifically for your dating profile.A good photographer knows what works, how to get the right expression, and what background works best. An experienced dating photographer can really make all the difference. Be careful which photographer you go with, though! Before you know it, you'll be in a studio, or with an amateur photographer who doesn't know what he's doing.
Conclusion
So there you have it, five tips to make sure your first photo on a dating app is a hit. Keep it simple, show your face, avoid studio photos, don't wear distracting clothing, and invest in a professional. With these tips, you'll be ready to enter the dating jungle and find that perfect match. And remember: stay yourself, enjoy the process, and who knows, you may soon meet your new favorite person.
Happy swiping,
Sonny
