No matter what dating app you use, a lot is riding on your photos. We’re all guilty of judging based on surface clues, scanning an article before diving in, and studies show that we make decisions in the first three seconds of seeing something new.
First impressions have never mattered more. Men swipe on 60% of the women they see; women swipe on 6% of the men they see.
Below we’ll cover how to pick the photos to display online for your dating profile, why it’s worth investing to upgrade your profile, some quick photoshoot tips (like what to wear and how to pose), and how you can book a photoshoot with a dating profile photographer.
Why You Need Professional Dating Profile Photos
Dating is hard. Online dating can be even harder. It doesn’t matter if you use OkCupid, Tinder, Match, Grindr, or eHarmony. It really is hard.
Before the internet, going on dates was a simple yes or no question. Now, there’s a cat and mouse of following on Instagram, DM’s, sending a friend request on Facebook, messaging on Bumble – and then maybe you will be able to text each other, and maybe even a date!
Match.com did a recent survey and the primary reason that people don’t get second dates is due to ‘unmet expectations’.
You want to show your true, authentic self. Be as real as possible! It may seem extra, but professional photos will get you more dates and make you stand out among all the low-quality photos. Actors get updated headshots done all the time, and dating is just another form of a casting call. Dating headshots will definitely put you ahead of the game.
You have ONE picture to capture their interest and only SIX images to get them to chat with you.
You are digging through your Facebook, Instagram, and photos on your phone to find a photo that is real but also makes you look great. This photo is really hard to find. You’ll end up settling on one from a couple of years ago when portrait mode just came out on your phone, it’ll do, but it’s not ideal. Read on for our best online dating profile photo tips.
Dating Profile Photoshoot Tips
Professional photos can be a great investment. A dating profile photographer knows how to use lighting, helps you pose in a natural way, and how to bring out your best qualities.
You want dating app photos that don’t scream “I hired a photographer for this.” You want to look casual and natural, almost like a buddy snapped a photo while you were out having fun.
This means no studio shots with you posing in front of an obvious backdrop. Have your online dating photographer take them in an interesting, fun, and natural environment, preferably at a few different locations.
What to Show in Dating Profile Photos
Here are 6 types of online dating profile photos that work well together:
- Show a full-length shot
- Feature a closeup (from your shoulders up)
- Only 1 or 2 photos in a fun environment (travel shot, rooftop bar, museum, etc…)
- One photo of you doing a sport or hobby
- Only 1 non-posed group photo
What NOT to Show in Dating App Photos
Here are a few tips on what NOT to include in your dating photo lineup:
- Do not use pictures that are more than two years old.
- Don’t use photos that include someone of the opposite sex, unless it’s a grandparent.
- Avoid using group shots with more than four people in them.
- Do not open with a picture where your eyes are not visible —- i.e, no hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid using images that require an explanation (i.e, not my kid/dog/boat/boyfriend).
Outfit Ideas & What to Wear
We want you to wear something that is totally and undeniably YOU, so we won’t give you too many pointers on what to wear. For any photoshoot, not just online dating profile photography, you want to feel great. If you come to the dating profile photoshoot rocking self-confidence, you will end up with excellent headshots and profile photos. The better you feel about yourself, the happier and more relaxed you’ll appear in front of the camera, plus confidence is super attractive.
Wear what you would want to wear if you were going to bump into your ex. You know the one! It’s the outfit that makes you feel cool, sexy, and confident.
Don’t get too fancy
Wear something that has a casual side. You don’t want to appear like you are trying too hard, you know? Now, we’re not saying sweatpants and an old t-shirt, but something that you would wear to brunch or a local event. Wear something that gives you that oomph of confidence but you can also casually hang out in.
Show your personal brand
Everyone has a thing. Think about your interests! If you’re into going to music a lot, then choose a typical outfit you’d wear to a concert. If you are into sports, bring some classy sportswear to show that side of you. If you’re into designer labels, show them off.
Bring a change of clothes or two
Like we said earlier, you have 6 photos to convince someone to talk to you, so make them count. You don’t want every photo to be exactly the same, so switching tops or accessories to change it up between shots is a good way to add different facets of your personality to your photos.
Go for color, solids work best
It sounds primitive, but we as people are attracted to color and vibrance. Think of adding a colorful top, some sweet kicks, or some accessories to brighten up your dating headshots. If color isn’t your thing, that’s ok, your dating profile photographer can use some bright backgrounds.
Think about dating profile photo props
Books, headphones, bikes, cameras, hats, coffee cups, newspapers, magazines, and yoga mats all make great props, and your online dating photographer will help you use them in the best way.
Don’t wear anything that totally hides you
Wear something that accentuates your body well and gives you shape. Avoid sweatshirts and oversized tees.
Dating Profile Photographer Pricing & Packages
You’re in the right place! We have hundreds of dating profile photographers in cities all over the world ready to capture that perfect set of photos for your online dating profile. Booking a quick photoshoot with a professional online dating photographer is so easy and you’ll get the kind of headshots and photos that reflect you and make you look terrific.
Find your city below to see our dating photography pricing & packages.
You are worth investing in, and great photos on your dating profile are an investment that is sure to give returns.
If you know what we mean 😉
“Ever since I added the new photos on my profile, my inbox has been exploding!”
– Micco, USA
What’s included in a dating profile photographer package?
With every beach photography package, you’ll get high-resolution photos that are professionally edited and delivered by email in a private online gallery within 5 business days. In your gallery, you will be able to see all the photos from your beach photoshoot and get to download a certain number of your favorites, depending on your package. It also includes:
- one-on-one planning with your photographer
- a private online gallery
- high-resolution photos that are professionally edited
- photos delivered within 5 days
Choose a quick 30-minute mini session, or book a 1-hour photoshoot to get a good range of backdrops and still have time to change outfits in between. 2 hours if you want a ton of backdrops and variations.
How much does a dating profile photoshoot cost?
Prices vary by city, ensuring you the best rates. High-resolution photos are professionally edited and delivered by email in a private online gallery within 5 business days. Choose between 4 different photo packages:
- 30 minutes – Includes 15 digital photos
- 1 hour – Includes 30 digital photos
- 90 minutes – Includes 45 digital photos
- 2 hours – Includes 60 digital photos
