Hey Andrew!  You're definitely right about one thing:

You’ll win or lose a woman’s attention with your profile pictures.  But it’s not for the reason you think.  You don’t have to be ridiculously good-looking to be successful at online dating.

In fact, the most attractive men can be at a disadvantage in online dating.  Women prefer to message guys of “average” good looks more often than they do the “most attractive” men, says OKCupid’s study “Your Looks and Your Inbox.”

If you’re a normal guy, you’re ahead of the game.

Then why do so many guys post-Zoolander selfies, shirtless gym pics, and professionally photographed headshots?  They’re trying too hard – and it shows.  The woman you’re looking for doesn’t care about that stuff.

What does increase your odds of meeting more women in person is when your pictures show your hobbies, your sense of humor, your full life, pets, and interests.  More than any selfie, these profile pictures show women how you’re unique and interesting.  They tell us that we have things in common with you, lots to talk about, and that it looks like fun to hang out with you.

Here are the 8 profile pictures that actually help you win at online dating:

1) You being active / doing something you love.

Smart guys make their pics work double-time: showing their appearance and their interests.  OKCupid’s research on successful profile pictures shows that men are twice as likely to meet women in person when you post pictures of yourself “doing something interesting” instead of “drinking” (a standard stand-by photo).

Why this works:  You’re showing women how you lead a full, engaging life – and that you potentially share some common interests.  When your pictures create topics of conversation, she won’t have to think hard about how to respond to your message.  And the easier you make it for her to respond, the better.  Next thing you know, you two are chatting away about your favorite rock climbing spots nearby.

Do you have photos from the last time you went rock climbing?  Coached your nephew’s soccer team?  Played Dominion?  Show us!

If you don’t have photos of you doing something you enjoy, get some!  Next time you’re geocaching or in the midst of a game night, have a friend take a couple of pics.

2) You, not alone.

When a guy’s profile pictures are all selfies, women assume he’s a massive narcissist – or worse, that he doesn’t have any friends.  One or two photos of you with friends, looking happy and natural, are way better than a profile full of boring, posed selfies, with no friends or interests.

Why this works:  Women want to know a guy’s capable of having healthy relationships – and that he doesn’t care only about himself.  When a few photos show your cycling team, volunteer group, or others who clearly enjoy spending time with you, women can feel fairly confident you’re not a sociopath.  (Which really increases your odds of meeting more women in person!)

If you haven’t checked out the photos tagged of you on Facebook lately, take a look again.  Your goal isn’t to look perfect in every one.  It’s OK if you and your buddy are beet-red and sunburned from a day of fishing.  The goal is to prove you’re a normal, happy guy with friends who enjoy your company.

One note: try to keep big group pictures to a minimum.  Group shots make it difficult for women to spot you; it gets annoying when every photo is like Where’s Waldo?  A photo of you and one or two friends is ideal.

3) You with your family.

This works like a powered-up version of photos with friends.  At the next holiday, grab your brother, a couple cousins, or your grandfather.  Have someone take the photo close-up, so you’re easily recognizable, and put your arm around Grandpa.

Why this works:  Women love family pics because we instantly assume you’re close with your family, a caring son, a good brother, and a sweet grandson. Basically, that you’re one of the good guys.  Good guys make good boyfriends.

A photo of you with your adorable niece, nephew, or friend’s kid is also great subliminal messaging.  It implies you’re good with kids and therefore would be a great dad.  (Upload with caution, though: you may attract some wife-ready women, so be sure that’s what you’re looking for.)

4) You with your pets.

According to OKCupid, photos with animals are even better for getting women to meet in person than your photos of “doing something interesting.”  So round up the nearest dog, cat, or baby elephant and let the magic happen.

Why this works:  Guys who are kind to animals are hot, no question about it.  You give off a vibe that’s caring yet playful…gentle yet protective…easy-going yet responsible.  Swoon.  Plus, when women see a cute guy cuddled up to a snuggly animal, we imagine how good you’ll be at cuddling us.

5) Your full body shot.

This is an online dating best practice because it’s common decency.  Women want to know what you actually look like.  You get nervous when all of a woman’s photos are cropped right below her cleavage, right?  You know she’s hiding something, and it’s not a wooden leg.

Unless you want women to be suspicious of you, post at least one photo showing your full body.

Why this works:  Women want to know you’re an honest, genuine person.  Lots of creeps post deceptive photos, or lie on their profiles.  After a couple bad dates, women are sick of this.  When we see you’re confident and honest about who you are, we’re into that.

The most useful online dating profile pictures?

6) Are flattering.

Yes: duh.  But tons of guys post deliberately unflattering photos, looking super drunk, making ugly faces, whatever.  If they’re trying to beat women to the punch by giving us reasons to reject them, it’s working.  But what’s the point of online dating, then?

It’s okay if you’ve got a goofy snorkeling photo or a picture of you on Halloween as a hunchback.  You should show your interests and personality.  Just don’t let those less flattering photos outnumber the ones that prove you’re way hotter than Quasimodo.

7) Are genuine.

Happiness is attractive!  Multiple stone-faced selfies in the gym mirror make a guy look dull.  And five emo-pout photos in a row get tiresome.  Show women that you like to be happy.  We want to know what you look like when you’re having a great time – so we can imagine how fun it’ll be right there next to you.

8) Are accurate / recent.

Some guys choose photos that make them seem “better looking” in some way.  They might hide their beer gut, crooked teeth, or bald spot.  This is a major bummer for two reasons:

1) When a guy chooses deceptive profile pictures, and then meets a date in person, she’ll see he lied to her.  Lying by omission is not a good way to start a relationship – but he probably won’t make it to a second date at all.

2) He’s losing opportunities to meet women who like his so-called flaws!  Crooked teeth can be raffish, bald can be sexy, and some extra weight can be great for cuddling.

Show your physical appearance and age with honesty.  Women will find your self-confidence really attractive.

Online dating is one place where you get to be yourself.  Be who you are – so the right woman can find you!

Now get out there and start sending some awesome messages to match your awesome profile pictures.

READ MORE Profile & Photo Tips

If you use just one dating application it should be -and probably is- Tinder.

But wait, isn’t Tinder that lascivious app where salivating oafs serial message women out of their league, “hey”?

Umm, yes and no.

Tinder used to be notorious for its label as a “hookup app.” And sure plenty of people still use it to find a one-night partner. But the online dating scene has expanded rapidly since Tinder’s genesis. While just a few years ago online dating was taboo, now it’s the most popular way people meet their significant others with 19% of new relationships starting after having met their partner online.

That’s right. Meeting a romantic partner online is now more commonplace than meeting your future partner through friends, at a bar, or during Sunday service.

As of September of 2019 Tinder had 7.86 million single(ish) users swiping and ghosting. That’s almost three million more users than the next most popular dating app, Bumble.

Regardless if you’re a dating app hater or fanboy, the reality is that if you want to meet single women you need to hop on Tinder. And when it comes to successfully meeting women on Tinder there’s no more important aspect of profile creation than Tinder pics. Because yes, it’s proven that looks do matter to women.

Dating apps are superficial -Tinder being the most of the bunch- so the only way to distinguish yourself among the millions of other dudes on the app is to create a roster of photos that are worthy of a swipe right.

Below are the top 6 Tinder photo archetypes that have been giving my clients success for years. Since Tinder lets you upload a maximum of 9 photos, don’t forget to mix in a couple of text prompt responses that expose your personality.

The 6 Best Tinder Picture Archetypes

Tinder Pics for Guys First Photo Must Have: The Closely Cropped Headshot

The first Tinder pic in your account has two purposes.

The first is to announce yourself to the Tinder stratosphere. This photogenic exclamation must be done in the clearest way possible, meaning that your face must be 100% unobscured. The second job of an initial Tinder photo is, of course, to convince her to either swipe right or spend more time vetting your profile.

Let’s get this out of the way now so that even if you don’t read this article in full you won’t make this tragic mistake. Yes, you have dozens of 100% unobscured photos on your phone, however, must are probably selfies. Selfies make you look like you have zero friends. By appearing lonely you lower your perceived value. Anyone with at least one arm can take a selfie. Don’t showcase the type of photo that just anyone can post.

Do your single self a favor and say no to selfies. But if you have no other choice but to take your photos yourself, get a tripod and use the timer feature on your phone to give yourself 10 seconds to take the photo without having it be an actual selfie.

This should go without saying. But the photo above should be used as your first Tinder photo for one simple reason -there’s only one person in it.

How often have you come across a female’s profile where her initial photo not only displayers herself but also five of her closest friends? If you don’t want females to do it why commit this most unfortunate of Tinder blunders as well? It doesn’t matter if it’s a great photo of you, if it’s your first photo you still haven’t established which one you are. A group shot as a first photo does nothing to help your cause.

A recent Hinge study confirmed some fairly obvious dating app picture tips. It also had some findings that users weren’t expecting.

One of these surprises is that photos of men facing forward were 102% more likely to receive a like than your average photo. Perhaps because a man distracted by a butterfly is only showing a portion of his face. Remember that you’re a complete unknown to other daters. It’s not always the best looking guy that gets the girl. Often it’s the one that offers users the most reliable information.

Safety. That’s who I feel looking at the above Tinder photos example; safe.

Take it from a woman that if she doesn’t feel safe, she won’t go out with you. There are a few ways your photos can make her feel comfortable.

What’s most important is that they’re clear. She mustn’t feel like you’re trying to hide any aspect of your appearance. The photo above checks this box off beautifully. It’s a high-res, front-facing photo that captures the user’s entire face. But that’s not the only aspect that’s working in this photo.

The subject is also smiling. It’s not a big smile, but by opening his mouth and showing her pearly whites he’s signaling to the person on the other side of the screen that he’s not a threat. Humanize yourself by smiling and showcasing as much of your character as possible. Tinder relegates each user into a series of cards. It’s your job to be seen as more than just a contestant on a superficial digital dating game.

This closely cropped headshot is distinct from those we’ve analyzed thus far.

The others offer little context by way of background. This photo, however, tells us much more about the Tinder user.

It’s clear that the subject isn’t in the states. The backpack and background suggest that he’s abroad, most likely in Europe, jaunting around a fairly old city. Traveling abroad conveys not only an interest but status. Not everyone has the drive and funds to galivant abroad. International travel photos are highly encouraged.

Some of you might question why this user’s first photo is with his daughter. Don’t.

This guy clearly isn’t into one night stands. He wants to meet women that are in it for the long haul. If this is the case he has to be up-front. Why waste time chatting back and forth with a woman, going on a few dates, spending loads of money, only to reveal later on that you have a child?

He knows that women uninterested in dads will swipe left, those that are into it will slide their finger to the right. He’s not wasting any time here.

Now, if this guy isn’t a father and just happened to think posting a photo of him with his little cousin was a good idea then he’s utterly hopeless. I’ve not sure that even I have the expertise to help him out.

Dating App Misconception Debunked

Before we reveal the best Tinder pics, I want to quickly address a common misconception men have about dating pictures.

Many a guy thinks that looking away from the camera is sexy and that staring at the lens makes them look aggressive, too much to so be swiped right on.

To get to the bottom of this we asked Lisa Damico, an award-winning online dating photographer based in Alexandria on her thoughts on the matter.

The Full Body Physique Photo

Full body Tinder pic shots serve the same purpose as headshots.

Harken back to the last time you swiped through a woman’s profile that only contained headshots. Sure she looked good but you couldn’t help thinking that she was hiding something. Online dating photos are part of your dating resume. Why should she settle for dating a dude that is afraid to show the bottom half of his body.

Not everybody’s afraid to show some skin, but such audacity isn’t always a good thing.

A shirtless photo -while it may look hot- is indicative of a player. Your profile should have a target audience. You don’t want to appeal to every female Tinder user do you? If you’re on the app for some buns, a shirtless photo is a good call, if not, reconsider.

Ask women for their thoughts on shirtless dating app photos and they’ll likely tell you that there’s a sweet spot that most dudes are missing. It’s easy to appear egoistic and douchey with shirtless photos. If you feel the need to post a half-naked picture, make sure they’re candid shots.

Context, context, context.

There’s a huge difference between a full body shot of a smiling dude leaning against a background of white brick and the Tinder pic above.

From this Tinder picture, we can glean that the user is American, likes to longboard, has great style, lives a physical lifestyle, etc. Give the woman debating whether to swipe left or right as many details about your life as possible.

If I were a dude I’d run a Spartan race just so I can post epic mid-race photos on my Tinder account.

It takes a unique human to run a Tough Mudder or Spartan race. It takes an even more unique one to smile while jumping over burning wood with a buddy. Ideally, you’d be able to see the Tinder user’s face, but apart from that one minor critique this photo kicks ass.

This half-naked shot fits our criteria for what’s considered a suitable shirtless Tinder photo.

The reason the guy posted this photo isn’t to showcase his muscles but rather to show that he’s the type of dude that will literally jump over fire to achieve his goals.

The Hobby Shot Photo

The first two Tinder picture archetypes establish what the user looks like. But few women would swipe right on a dude just because he’s got a couple of nice headshots. The rest of your photos (and of course your Tinder bio) should be used to convey a well-rounded personality (and prove that you’re not a serial killer).

You can do this with hobby shots.

The more a woman can connect with you the more likely it is she’ll swipe right. Take the guy above.

He’s the sporty type that by the looks of his jersey is into soccer. This photo ticks the boxes of soccer and fitness buffs alike.

This man is all about shooting his shot, both on the golf course and online.

With that fierce gaze and perfected crouch, the kid looks like an aspiring Tiger Woods. It doesn’t quite matter that he consistently hits 25 over par, he’s clearly passionate about golf (or about staring into the abyss). Always put your hobbies and qualities on full display.

What sets you apart from other men?

Is it your ability to play the tuba, write novels, or put yourself in a sinuous yoga position while kissing the ground? Boast about your distinctions as long as they’re positive.

Music-related photos are always encouraged. What women doesn’t want her man serenading her?

There are sporty photos and then there are SPORTY PHOTOS!

The previously cited Hinge study found that women love sports photos, but they tend to prefer one type to the other. Non-contact and low energy sports such as ping-pong and tennis weren’t as highly rated as contact and high-intensity sports. If you’re debating between badminton and a basketball photo, post the latter.

The Animal Lover Shot

There are few things women love more than a cute dog pic. Evidence shows that guys are seen as smarter, more caring, and more trustworthy when posing with man (and woman’s) best friend. Not posting a Tinder picture of you with your pooch would be like Batman refraining to use the most badass gadget in his utility belt.

The best wingman a man can ask for is his dog (apart from myself of course).

Women love dog pics. Men know this.

Dudes will do anything they can to be more appealing than either profile to their left or right. This even means stealing their friend’s or parent’s dog for a spontaneous photo shoot. The bait and switch is so common that the tactic has been coined as dogfishing. And we at emlovz are fine with that because anytime you use an animal (that looks happy) in your photos, it subconsciously demonstrates to the woman looking at it that you are safe and trustworthy.

Animals have a sixth sense for danger and will bark and avoid humans whom they feel are unsafe. So having any animal in your photo with you, as long as that animal looks happy, is another data point that you’re probably not a killer and that it would be safe for her to go on a date with you.

This photo is infinitely better than the first two we’ve seen thus far. Why?

Look you only have so many photos you can upload to the app (ideally 5-6). Every slot must be used to provide more information not only on who you are but what you look like. The first two photos viewed obscure the user’s face. This one doesn’t.

I guess cats are cool, but women tend to prefer dog pics. Cat-lovers are perceived as more effeminate than dog lovers. But again, your Tinder pics should be an accurate portrayal of who you are.

If you’re an unabashed cat lover and want to hang with fellow cat people maybe you do post those cat pics you’ve got stacked in your photo library. Just know that dogs are always better than cats… at least when it comes to getting matches.

Cute dog, but last time I checked this was a dating app for humans. This photo would be ideal if the cameraman took a step back and also included the guy’s face in the picture.

The Social Shot

Many an online dating guru has trashed group Tinder pictures, however, they do serve a purpose.

It’s true that group shots should never be the first or second photo in your profile. But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be included at all. Group shots have the opposite effect as selfies. Whereas a selfie makes you look basic and friendless, group shots give the impression that your life is dynamic and that you’re surrounded by awesome people.

The women of Tinder think of you as a stranger. Being surrounded by a group of smiling people tells her that there are other humans out there that enjoy being around you. This will give her comfort, and that’s exactly what she needs to persuade her to go on a first date with you.

Smiles all around, physical contact with women -clearly good times are being had. After viewing this Tinder pic she too may want to join in on the fun.

Think of your Tinder profile or tagline as a poem.

Every written line and every uploaded photo must be pithy. With only so much space to advertise yourself you’ll need to be meticulous when it comes to crafting the perfect visual poem.

The one thing off about this Tinder photo is that the attention is on the one person whose face is obscured by his hand. This is the Tinder user. If that hand weren’t there this photo would be awesome, but it is, so it shouldn’t be used. Don’t just select the first 5-6 photos you think are Tinder-worthy. Constantly search and swap out photos once better ones are found. If you don’t know what’s considered Tinder-worthy, just ask the lovely ladies from Photofeeler.com.

Background is key to adding context. From this photo we can deduce that the Tinder user eats healthy and has a sick pad or office. Whenever possible show as much detail as possible.

The GQ Shot

The GQ shot is your time to shine.

You probably have a few recent wedding pics you’ve got stashed away on your phone. Now is the time to use them.

Women (and yes even men) are looking for status symbols. Dressing well, wearing a nice watch, or being pictured on a rooftop bar are all status symbols that women are attracted to. Look man, Tinder is the perfect place to brag about how awesome you are. Don’t be afraid to post a photo or two of you at your swankiest.

This guy’s got the right idea.

The only critique I have is that it looks too staged, almost as if he took this at a photo studio. What’s working for him is that while the background is dull the shot looks candid, thus humanizing the subject.

What was I just saying about watches, rooftops bars, and fancy clothing?

Apart from looking a bit contrived, this photo typifies the GQ Tinder pic that every guy should have in his roster of photos.

Your only fear when posting a ritzy Tinder photo is that you come off as arrogant. As this gentleman demonstrates any hint of arrogance is swept away by simply smiling.

Tinder Pics for Guys…. That Women Will Ignore

Angry Muscles

Doesn’t this guy look more like the archetypical bond villain than prince charming? He looks like he just broke out of his own jail cell by bursting through the cell wall with his pectorals.

I can’t stress this enough, women want to be comforted, not scared into swiping left as quickly as possible.

Sunglasses

I understand why dudes think wearing glasses in photo is a good idea. Glasses make the face look more symmetrical which in turn makes you look better. Yet a 2016 Tinder study found that men and women were 15% less likely to be swiped right on if they were wearing a hat or glasses.

This is because women can be simultaneously physically attracted and scared of a guy. Look, we’re complex, deal with it… or just take off the shades.

Not Smiling in Your Photos

You know how else doesn’t smile? Serial killers!

Actually google John Wayen Gacy Jr. or Ted Bundy and you’ll find photos of smiling mass murderers looking back at your en masse. Even though serial killers are a fairly smiley bunch, that’s the association we’ll make. A person that doesn’t smile is thought of as untrustworthy and aggressive. These aren’t traits we want in the dudes we date, especially if they’re strangers.

Killery

Aggressive photos like the one above will attract only a very specific type of woman. What that type of woman is, I can only speculate.

Killery photos work for a small percentage of women. Understand which type of women your photos appeal to before posting.

Best Tinder Pics for Guys: Conclusion

You’ve probably noticed that many of these Tinder pics look professional. It’s because they are.

Higher quality photos translate to more matches, it’s that simple. Consider making a day out of taking new Tinder photos that friend of yours that owns a DSLR. If you don’t have a photographer friend around consider even hiring a photographer that specializes in dating app photos.

As you can see, there’s a lot to be pondered when choosing the perfect Tinder pics for your profile. If you need a helping hand, book a new client 1-on-1 Skype session with yours truly.

I’ve helped hundreds of men create high-quality Tinder profiles from scratch. Together you and I will create an awesome profile and discuss the dating strategies you need to implement in order to find your next -and possibly last- girlfriend. We’ll also discuss if my 3 month coaching program is right for you!

At least half of online dating is fantasy. And scrolling through a dating app is basically relationship porn—but instead of anonymous apartments and delivery men, this kind of porn has us ladies (and I’m sure more than a few men) imagining a passionate courtship, one that takes place on hikes in Peru, Caribbean fishing excursions, and bars with exceptional lighting.

But if you’ve ever watched porn with a woman and been annoyed when she couldn’t stop critiquing the male sex-haver’s couch, watch, haircut, socks—why is he still wearing socks?!—then you’ve learned that every last detail in an image contributes to (or impedes) a woman’s ability to become aroused. Point is: Your dating app profile should excite prospective viewers (on a more G-rated level, at least). And the photos you post have the power to fuel her fantasies just as easily as they emergency-brake them.

Some dating app truths: Women don’t love having to guess which guy you are in your photos. They definitely find it creepy if you’re shirtless in all your photos. And yes, they care about the clothes you wear in your photos—more than you realize. You may still be under the impression that women only pay attention to great abs and symmetrical facial features. But that assumption is not only rooted in insecurity (the world’s No.1 lady-boner-killer, FYI), it’s also counterproductive to your cause.

Being hot is nothing to scoff at, but it’s far from the only thing women on dating apps care about. Doesn’t it make more sense to obsess over the things in your profile photos you can change? Hot guys with bad clothes are a dime a dozen in this world, but men with really good style, clothes that flatter their bodies, and basic hygiene are the unicorns we women are searching for.

Here’s a guide to crafting a stylish (and, yes, arousing) dating app wardrobe, and arranging those for a winning, five-photo slate that’s far more likely to earn some right-swipes than whatever you have on your Bumble profile now. Who knows? You might even decide to wear the stuff in real life.

For access to exclusive gear videos, celebrity interviews, and more, subscribe on YouTube!

Cute dog, check, cool guy pictures for dating sites. Mirror selfie, check. Topless selfie, check. Group photo from lads holiday, check. Photo with your nephew captioned “not my kid!”, check, cool guy pictures for dating sites.

If you're reading this and are guilty of one (or more) of these photos on your profile, then you have come to the right place, cool guy pictures for dating sites. These dating app classics have become something of a cliché that makes girls cringe. Not only is it deadly dull to swipe through a sea of the same images cool guy pictures for dating sites and again, it doesn’t set you apart from the rest. Quite frankly women are only comparing the puppies by this point.

Whether you are on Hinge or Happn, Badoo or Bumble, your images need to stand out. With another potential date just a swipe away, you need to ensure that your profile is worth stopping and scrolling through. Luckily, getting these individual and attractive photos for your profile can be simple. Follow our five-step guide to avoid the clichés, boost your profile and get you swiping closer to that special someone.

“What matters more than anything when it comes to cool guy pictures for dating sites online dating profile? One word: Photos. Photos can drastically increase your chances of getting more communication and dates. Or not.”

1. First Impressions

The photos you have or don’t have are the key to success when it comes to online dating. Eharmony reported profiles with photos received nine times more communication than those without.¹ They are the first thing your potential match is going to see and use to determine in a split second cool guy pictures for dating sites they ‘like’ your profile. In the virtual dating game, attention spans are short and you have only seconds to catch someone's eye. So yes, first impressions count, especially online. Since you can’t rely on your charm, wit, or presence  over messages, your photos need to do the talking. Before you choose what images you are going to upload, make sure you know what impression you want to give. One client at Perfocal, told us that he decided to get a professional shoot to attract someone of a similar mindset and lifestyle to him. “I wore smart clothes and made the effort to get professional photos because I wanted to show that I was serious about looking for a relationship.”

2. Quality is Key

It can be easy to upload what you have handy but that can be poorly received by potential matches according to the experts. Eharmony says “What matters more than anything when it comes to your online dating profile? One word: Photos. Photos can drastically increase your chances of getting more communication and dates. Or not.”²Eharmony reported that it wasn’t just having photos that was important but having good quality images made a difference too. Even the actual orientation and crop of an image contributed to the success of the profile. Landscape and 3×4 portrait shots got better responses than close up or narrowly cropped shots, which lead to the assumption of an ex having been cut out.³ The optimum choice being a balanced composition where you are central to the frame with something interesting behind you to spark conversation. Street art, a landmark or landscape location. Low quality, low effort images cool guy pictures for dating sites proven to actually deter matches. The Independent reported that selfies are 40% less likely to receive a like and bathroom selfies performed even worse, with a 90% reduction in likes from others.⁴ So put the phone down, step away from the mirror and give yourself a chance, by booking a shoot with the experts.

3. Don’t Hide or Distract

Just as the quality of your images is important, actually showing who you are and what you look like is necessary. It can cool guy pictures for dating sites tempting to upload photos of you looking ‘cool’ in your shades, or a group shot which makes identifying you very difficult. But studies have shown that photos of those in sunglasses reduced their chances of being liked by 15% whilst those in a hat saw a 12% decrease in likes.⁵ Hinge reported that solo photos received are craigslist dating posts real more likes than a group shot, “proving dating app users cool guy pictures for dating sites have time for guess work.”⁶ Have a good headshot photo as your first image, people have short attention-spans online and they want to see your face, followed by a body shot. Despite the urge to ignore this advice and avoid including a full body shot on your profile, the Independent reported that having a full length image actually “works in your favour” due to the likeness of people making assumptions otherwise.⁷ A strong variety of images that represent you clearly, is the most honest and attractive approach to your online dating profile. The more variety you have leads to a talking point for your matches. If your photos are interesting, it is easier for someone to start a conversation with you.

4. Conversation Starters

Interesting photos, activities, cool clothes, dreamy depth of fields. They all lead to the perfect conversation starter. If your passion is style, then choose outfits that you love to communicate that side of you. If you're interested in street art, head to Brick Lane for a backdrop. Simple indicators of your personality are important to include in your profile, and they can pay off, cool guy pictures for dating sites. Hinge reported that photos of people participating in sports did 75% better than the average photo.⁸ A Perfocal client told us that his shoot felt like ‘hanging out with my friend who happened to be great at photography, we went for coffee and drinks and he took candid shots.’ These shots could lead to a conversation starter with a fellow coffee addict or cocktail connoisseur. He also told us that he received a lot of compliments on the professional images on his profile, “people were impressed and attracted to the clear sharp images that conveyed my personality and passions.” Another Perfocal client mentioned that an image of his taken by his favourite spot by the Thames received a lot of attention and compliments.

5. Stand Out

Online dating can become repetitive and frankly boring at times. There are many ways you can be missed by your potential match by accidentally blending in. But you can ensure your photos are eye catching and stand out. OkCupid reported that photos of you looking directly into the camera perform better.⁹ Hinge discovered that smiling in a photo increases your chances of a like by 23%.¹⁰ However you can also boost your profile by adding in candid shots. The Independent reported that 80% of photos on dating profiles are posed, but candid shots are 15% more likely to get a ‘like.’¹¹ Be sure to combine a mix of photos, one with eye contact, a smile and a candid shot. One Perfocal client told us he got ‘some really great candid shots’ during his photoshoot that he felt captured him perfectly and completely naturally. “I am not someone who can smile on cue, I need to be caught off guard and then the real me is represented, we actually achieved this on the shoot which dating a black army man amazing.”

Other than the way you interact with the camera you can use your clothing to stand out too. Tinder found that 72% of the users were wearing neutral colour clothing in their photos, cool guy pictures for dating sites, therefore just by choosing bright or colourful outfits you are more likely to be noticed.¹² Another client of Perfocal mentioned he chose to wear different no luck with dating apps to represent the different sides of his lifestyle, “I wear a suit to work but at the weekend I am super casual, so I wanted to attract someone of the same work life balance.” Black and white images are less common on dating best dating site for separated people, only 3% of images on the platform are monochrome. Being rare they have a better success rate, 106 times more cool guy pictures for dating sites to receive likes than coloured images.¹³ It seems they are able to capture people’s attention more easily.

There is more to it than you might have first thought, the images are more than just pictures. Potential matches are looking at your photos to determine if you are for them. The images you use on your profile matter. They cool guy pictures for dating sites a method of attracting attention, a way to strike up a conversation and an indicator of your personality. The idea of having a professional photoshoot might make you cringe, but having spoken to Perfocal clients there are many reasons to try it. All of them said how enjoyable and comfortable the photographer made them feel, one even described his photographer as “a mentor, who had some great life advice.” Another said he doesn’t classify himself as photogenic, but was so pleased with the images from the shoot that it filled him with confidence. An introverted client described how much fun the shoot was, “I am naturally shy so the idea of doing a shoot in public was daunting. Once I got into it I forgot about everyone around me. It was fun changing into different outfits and scouting cool locations.” He also said, “I loved the images so much I used them on my Linkedin and Facebook page.” Another told us, “I am so glad I put myself out there because what is the worst that could happen, you find love?”

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Footnotes:

1. Eharmony - The Most Popular Online Dating Profile Photos Revealed 01/08/13

2. Eharmony - The Most Popular Online Dating Profile Photos Revealed 01/08/13

3. Eharmony - The Most Popular Online Dating Profile Photos Revealed 01/08/13

4. The Independent - The Dating App Pictures that will get you the Most Right Swipes 21/04/17

5. Bustle - 11 Profile Picture Hacks That Actually Work On Dating Apps 09/05/18

6. Hinge - Hinge Reports: Profile Pictures That Get the Most Likes

7. The Independent - The 13 Biggest Mistakes People Make on Dating Apps 22/04/18

8. Bustle - How To Take The Perfect Picture For Your Dating Profile 20/04/18

9. Cosmopolitan - 8 Tricks to Get Way More Matches on Your Dating Apps 16/08/18

10. Hinge - Hinge Reports: Profile Pictures That Get the Most Likes

11. The Independent - The Dating App Pictures that will get you the Most Right Swipes 21/04/17

12. Bustle - 11 Profile Picture Hacks That Actually Work On Dating Apps 09/05/18

13. Hinge - Hinge Reports: Profile Pictures That Get the Most Likes

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Monday 2 January 2017 is going to be THE busiest day of the year for the UK’s online dating industry with thousands of single people up and down the country logging on to their favourite dating sites and apps (and probably signing up to some brand spanking new ones) to take advantage of the New Year optimism that everyone feels at the beginning of the year. To give you a head-start, here are my top tips for creating and choosing the best dating profile photos.

I’m going to start with guys first as there are some slight differences between men and women’s dating photos.

Avoid looking directly at the lens sometimes

So yes, this is a biggie. For guys, while you obviously need a smiling, happy shot direct to camera, especially for your main profile photo, you also need some supporting shots that show you staring off to the side, looking past the lens not directly into it. There was some research undertaken by Zoosk that said some women may find that too many photos, where you’re staring directly into the lens, can be a bit intimidating. And OK Cupid backed this up by saying they found the cool guy pictures for dating sites effective photos for men, were those when they were looking away from the lens. That said, your main profile photo should have you smiling and looking into the lens so that you come across as engaging.

Not smiling is OK too

While men love photos of women smiling and looking happy, according to that same recent OK Cupid survey, women like to see photos of guys that portray pride so it’s totally cool for men to use photos where they’re not smiling. The reason for this apparently is that women associate pride higher levels of masculinity, which in turn show a man’s ability to provide and care for his family. In addition to that, some previous research has shown that happiness is often associated with low dominance and femininity, which might also explain why men are attracted to women displaying happiness most.

Outdoor shots get a big thumbs up

Men get 19% more attention if their photos are taken outside. It makes you look masculine and rugged and us women like that a lot, it seems. The benefit to taking your photos outdoors is that you get some great, natural light which is actually more flattering than flash. In fact, flash photography is known to add seven years to your face so there’s a reason right there to step away from flash and head outdoors. Here are Hey Saturday we LOVE outdoor shots because they help capture you looking relaxed and natural as though one of your mates, who’s great with a camera, has captured you.

Use colour to stand out 

The one simple thing you can do that will make your dating profile photo jump off the page and stand out to all those online daters is to include some bright colour somewhere in the shot. Sean Rad, CEO of Tinder, backed up what Hey Saturday has known for years, cool guy pictures for dating sites, that profile photos with bright colour in them will help attract tonnes more dates. Either wear some bright clothes or, if like me your prefer more neutral colours, find a bright background or something bright nearby to include in the shot and watch your click-through rate i

Use props or backdrops to tell your story 

The one thing that your dating profile photos should aim to do, is tell people a little bit more about who you are and your personality, while still being as natural as possible. Perhaps choose a background or location for your shots that make you feel comfortable and tells people a little bit about you, cool guy pictures for dating sites. Having a prop with you in your photo is also a great way of giving people clues cool guy pictures for dating sites your interests and life-style.

Include a full body shot

One of your supporting photos should be a recent full body shot so that women have an idea of your body size and shape.

So guys, I hope you found these tips useful. Don’t worry about following them all to the letter, you need to do what feels right for you and everyone is different but hopefully these tips will ensure you’ll be making online dating texting too much as attractive as possible to women while you do that.

I just wanted to end with a check-list of dating photo no-nos, which is just a reminder as I’m sure you’re aware of these.

Dating photo no-nos for men:

Selfies – 29% of women are turned off by this (it’s not so bad the other way round though, men quite like them for women).

Shirtless – 1 in 3 women find shirtless photos ‘offensive’ cool guy pictures for dating sites an ‘almost instant dealbreaker’.

Racy pics (I think you know what I mean) – 75% of women say overtly sexual photos are the biggest dating turn-off.

Hiding behind glasses and a hat – 23% of women name this as their biggest pet peeve.

No photo at all – you wouldn’t go into a bar with a brown-paper bag on your head so don’t take the same approach here.

Thanks for reading and if you have any questions, drop me a line at [email protected]