How to Take Good Dating Profile Photos (Tips, Tricks and Hacks)

The key to taking irresistible dating app photos is to think of it like marketing. Your pictures are like your digital storefront window that either appeals to potential matches or sends them running for the hills. So, before you put up that shirtless picture, ask yourself, “Would I engage with this?”

Your profile is your brand, and you have only a few photos to sell or crash. Don't worry; in this guide, we'll show you how to take good dating profile photos that scream “Swipe right!”. Read on as we share vital tips, dos and don'ts, and some dating photo hacks!

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5 Good Dating Profile Photos You Must Have on Your Profile

Typically, you should have at least three pictures of you on your dating profile. Ideally, however, five to six is the sweet spot because it affords you more opportunities to say who you are with your photos. But what pictures must be included in your dating profile photos? Well, let's see:

1. The Classic Headshot

No, we're not talking about selfies. In fact, avoiding selfies is advisable because they tend to distort your face and make your potential matches assume that you have no friends. Studies have even shown that group photos are more attractive than selfies. But since headshots are taken by others, it's a far better choice.   

A classic headshot is a close-up photo of your face, typically from the shoulders up. This picture is important because it gives potential matches a clear view of your face, helping them to form a strong first impression. Ensure the image is clear and well-lit; it's also best to smile naturally and make eye contact to appear friendly. 

2. Full Body Shot

A full-body shot is also a good dating profile photo to add to your account. Including a picture that shows your physique gives others a complete view of your appearance, helping them decide if you're a match or not. 

Think of a full-body shot as an avenue to showcase your personality and how secure you are in your skin. So, choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable, and ask a friend or even a stranger to take the shot. You could even opt to get matched with a local photographer for the perfect full-body shot. 

3. Activity or Hobby Photo

Want to know the big gun of good dating profile photos? It's activity or hobby pictures! Do you love biking? Hiking? Traveling? Being outdoors? Or even reading? Well, these are great shots for your profile. 

These photos provide insight into your personality and interests, attracting someone with a similar passion. Another reason why lifestyle pictures make good dating app photos is because they help others see your authenticity and set the tone for dropping the best dating app openers. 

4. Group/Social Photo

Group photos are also great options. They demonstrate to potential mates that you have a social life and can maintain friendships. But they can be tricky because you could either get them right or wrong. 

First, it's vital to ensure that the group photo clearly indicates who you are so as not to leave matches confused. Also, don't make use of a group photo as your main profile picture, as potential matches may find it difficult to identify you.

5. Candid Photo 

A candid photo refers to an image that captures your true essence in a genuine and unposed moment. It is one of the best photos for dating apps because it helps convey your personality in a more natural and relaxed way. 

Remember, your dating profile is not Instagram. Good dating site pictures should exude authenticity and personality.

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4 “Dos” for Taking Good Dating Profile Photos

Okay, we've listed some must-haves; it's time to list the “dos.” This section will help you understand what makes a good dating profile photo, thereby increasing your chances of making great first impressions. Here are some vital dating app photo tips:

Natural Lighting

Natural lighting can make a huge difference in the quality of your pictures. To take a good dating profile photo with natural lighting, look for a shaded area with soft, diffused light. Try to avoid direct sunlight or using flash, as these can create unflattering shadows. 

Variety

When it comes to getting good photos for a dating profile, remember that variety is the spice of swipe life! Showcasing different aspects of your personality keeps things interesting – think of it as the photo equivalent of a well-mixed playlist. So, throw in a little spontaneity and sprinkle in some hobbies, and you've got yourself a killer dating profile. 

Transform “meh” photos to “match magnets” with our AI-enhanced photo tool

Genuine Expression

If you've been getting no matches on Tinder or some other dating app, the issue could be a lack of “genuineness” in your profile. For a dating profile pic that's worth a thousand words, you need to let the real you come out. Ditch the rehearsed and just be you! 

If you're unsure about your profile, try Profile Review. Our dating app profile experts will check it out and make it 10x better

Background Consideration

Your background could be a great wingman or a distracting third wheel. So, do well to choose a backdrop that compliments you. Remember, the goal is to stand out, not blend into a sea of mysterious or confusing objects. 

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4 “Don'ts” for Taking Good Online Dating Profile Photos

The “dos” won't be complete without the “don'ts”. Now that you know what to do, here are a few points on what NOT to do:

Avoid Group Shots Without Clarity

As we said before, group photos are okay only when they're not your main photo, and everyone can identify you. Your dating profile shouldn't be a game of “Where’s Waldo?.” If your potential matches have to play detective, they'd probably swipe left. 

Steer Clear of Over-Editing

Too many filters are often a big turn-off. This is because it doesn't show the real you and may send a message that you're not confident enough to take pictures without them. Keep it real and avoid excessive “digital makeovers.”

No Sunglasses or Hats in Every Photo

Sunglasses and hats in every photo will reduce your chances of getting matches because they block out your face and eyes. You could include one sunglass or hat picture…but keep it at one. 

Bathroom Selfies or Mirror Shots

Mirror shots and bathroom selfies should not go on your dating profile. Not only do these types of photos often come across as immature but they can also be seen as a bit vain.  

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Tricks and Hacks for Excellent Dating App Photography

Here are some practical tricks and hacks for capturing great dating app pictures:

• Find the perfect angle to highlight your best features. Studies have revealed that people tend to prefer the left side of other's faces. So, experiment with both sides and see what works. 
• Use the rule of thirds by placing yourself slightly off-center in the camera frame.
• Make sure you're making eye contact in your main profile photo
• Go for bright colors like red, as multiple studies have shown that men are attracted to women wearing red and vice versa. 
• You can also generate attractive dating photos that meet all these qualities using AI-powered photo tool

Captioning your photos is also another way to increase your chances for likes. We know that it can be annoying and frustrating to put down a few sentences about yourself. That's why we created Profile Writer. All you have to do is answer a few prompts, sit back, and get a winning bio in 30 seconds. 

Speaking of bios, check out the best Tinder and Bumble Bios to try. 

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Final Words: How to Get the Best Photos for Dating Apps?

Taking good dating profile photos is an art. What works on your Facebook or Instagram account may not pass on a dating app. The number one tip to take home is that your dating profile is like an autobiography, and the best photos for it are the ones that tell your story. When your bio reads like a story, then your match can easily start a conversation. 

Unsure about what to say to your match? Try Chat Assistant for a seamless conversation 

Don't worry; we understand how you can be confused with all this talk about telling a story with pictures. That's why we built an AI for the purpose. Let our AI-enhanced photo tool tell your story for you!

For more dating app tips, do check out our blog. We provide all kinds of helpful and sometimes..unsolicited advice to help you nail your online dating journey. 

You can also find all our packages, tools, and writings in the YourMove AI app. There, we provide even more hands-on help for your dating journey. Hope you enjoyed reading? See you in our next post!