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The INSIDER Summary: 

• A well-lit, classic headshot is the best option for your dating profile's main photo.
• A full body shot in one of your favorite outifts is also important.
• Photos giving a glimpse of your everyday life will help reveal a bit of your personality.
• Your fourth "bonus photo" should be another headshot or full-body shot that shows you in a different light.

First photo: classic headshot

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Most online dating sites only give you a small one-inch square for your main profile picture to lure people onto your page, which is why the perfect headshot is your best option for racking up clicks, likes, and messages.

Nowadays, most people think of selfies when they hear the word "headshots," but the weird angles often distort your face. (Here are some other mind-blowing facts about selfies you should know.) For the best headshot results, swap out the selfie stick for a best friend or professional photographer to snap the picture for you. The formula for the most desirable headshot is quite simple: look straight into the camera with a nice smile, stand under natural light, style your hair nicely, a groomed face for men and a minimal, natural make-up look for women (that is if you wear make-up), and a simple background like a brick wall.

“Everyone wants someone who is approachable and smiling is the cheapest way to do that,” says Maria Avgitidis, CEO and head matchmaker at Agave Match in New York City. “Looking into the camera shows you're ready to go and the eyes are the window into your soul.” Your picture should look like your best friend took it because you don’t want a photo that looks like you're posing at a cheesy mall portrait studio.

As for picture faux pas, sunglasses, baseball hats, and a stone cold face don't make you look mysterious. If anything, they make you look hard and unapproachable with a hidden agenda. (Check out these 17 signs that you're actually the toxic one in the relationship.)  “These profiles are one-dimensional,” says Michelle Frankel, founder of NYCity Matchmaking in New York. “No one is finding a reason to go out with someone when they look at other people. But they are finding a reason not to go out with someone.”

Don’t be afraid to use the headshot as an opportunity to embrace who you are. If you have curly hair, let those ringlets run wild or if you wear glasses, throw them on for your picture. A little bit of acceptance and self-love can go a long way in finding true love. (These are the 8 things you should never post about your relationship on Facebook.)

Second photo: the full body shot

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In an era where catfish (people who create fake profiles and steal pictures from other people's profiles) wreak havoc all over online dating, the full body shot comes in handy.

“Women tend to lie about their age and weight while men tend to lie about their age and height,” says Janis Spindel. founder and matchmaker at Janis Spindel & Carly Spindell Serious Matchmaking in New York City. “If you’re posting body shots, it’s a little harder to lie.”

The full body shot is your chance to flaunt your best attributes like your long legs, toned arms, or the gentle curves of your hips. Your photos should be current and a year old at most. You should be dressed in an outfit that makes you feel like a hundred bucks whether it’s that dashing suit you wore to your best friend’s wedding, the little black dress you wore out for a girls’ night, or your favorite pair of jeans.

“It’s about your attitude,” says Carly Spindel, matchmaker at Janis Spindel & Carly Spindel Serious Matchmaking in New York City. “If you feel great and you have on a great outfit that flatters your body, it exudes confidence and comes through in the photos.” Also, bear in mind that your dating profile was created to showcase you and no one or nothing else. Save the photos of your hot sports car, pets, expensive dinner, and group shots with friends for your social media accounts. Stop posting these 7 kinds of photos on social media!

Third photo: the lifestyle shot

Heather Goodman/ Shutterstock

The third photo is your opportunity to give a glimpse into your everyday life. The lifestyle photo should show you in action participating in your favorite activity, hobby, or passion like cheering at a football game and donning your favorite team’s jersey or hiking up a mountain. “It should be a conversation starter,” says Frankel. “You want to give someone a reason to engage with you and ask you a question.” Just make sure the activity doesn’t detract from your looks or hide your face. But a heads up for beach bums, try to steer clear of the bathing suit photos. Sometimes they appear overtly sexual, which may attract the wrong type of person or relationship you’re seeking. “Bikini tops and shirtless pictures attract the wrong kind of men and women,” says Carly Spindel. “I think you can show off your physique with a fitted dress or a nice button-down.” Your dating profile isn't the only page that says a lot about you as a person, your social media does too.

Fourth photo: the bonus shot

WAYHOME studio/Shutterstock

Four is the magic number for images you want to post on your dating profile. The fourth picture is like a freebie that gives you the freedom to post another full body shot or headshot, but show you in a different light. It could be you wearing a casual outfit, a dolled up head shot, or a fun photo of your laughing. All four photos should be crisp with no pixelation to maintain that honest and true consistency of who you are throughout your profile photos.  “It’s about marketing yourself,” says Avgitidis, “Make sure you don’t take online dating too seriously. Dating takes courage and everything will fall in place eventually.” These online dating pick-up lines are guaranteed to either get you the date or get ghosted.

The world has changed a lot recently, and we must adapt to keep up with these changes. Amid the pandemic, online dating has surged in popularity, and according to Business Insider, the number of dating app users increased by 20% in 2020. Whether we wish to admit it or not, the most important part of your dating profile is undoubtedly your photos. It's the primary way our brains form an opinion of someone. In fact, a survey in EliteSingles highlights the fact that 58% of British singles said they would not open a profile that did not include photos. With this in mind, Perfocal asked dating photographers to give us their tips on how to choose the best possible collection of pictures for your dating profile. So before choosing your Tinder dating photos, take note of the 5 must-have dating pics that will make your Tinder profile stand out.

Photo 1: A classic headshot. Put on a happy face and smile

The classic headshot is usually the first photo that people see in your tinder pictures. First impressions matter, so it's important to choose a photo that gives the best reflection of who you are. Firstly, this is a headshot, not a close-up, so try to frame the picture from the chest up. It also helps to remember it is not a passport photo, so try not to be too serious. A smile goes a long way to set someone at ease. The background should be blurred or work to frame you, and make sure it's not too busy or distracting. As with all photos, lighting is critical, so try to avoid strong overhead light that make your features appear harsh. Ideally, the main light source should be at eye level to accentuate your facial features and look professional. You want perfect balance of being lit from the front, but still getting some side-lighting to accentuate your features and not produce a flat-looking portrait.

Photo 2: A candid portrait, don't pose for it, live it

Candid photos are a great way to show your personality and impress people looking to match profile pictures with someone fun. A true candid shot is taken when you are unaware that you are being photographed. In saying that, most candid shots are faked, and the person in the photo just tries their best to appear natural. The best way to achieve this is to plan your shot well and position yourself in the optimal spot. Although not always practical, shoot from a low angle if possible to further add an impromptu feeling. It helps if you are in the middle of an activity or doing something that is making you smile or laugh. Try to relax and move freely, so you get the most natural-looking pose. Remember, you didn't know there was a camera there, and the photographer just snapped a photo of you while you were doing something interesting.

Photo 3: Shots that can express your hobbies

It is hard to learn a lot about a person from their Tinder profile photos, but take every opportunity you can to highlight your likes and hobbies in this shot. One of the best tinder tips for women is to include a photo of yourself in your natural habitat. If you like reading, then why not include a photo while doing precisely that. Or if you love playing sports, perhaps a sporty look will help you match profile pictures with someone else who likes the same sport. Most Tinder profile photos focus just on the person themselves, but every picture tells a story, so try to convey as much information as you can with this shot. If you want to get a message across about the kind of activities you like, what better way to do that than to include a photo of you actually doing it. Most tinder photos are repetitive, and we want to stand out from the crowd, so showing your hobbies or activities is a great way to match profile pictures with a like-minded person.

Photo 4: Full-body shot to compliment your profile pictures

To avoid any misunderstandings, it is always wise to include a full-body shot that shows your physique. These can be some of the hardest to get right in dating photography because now you need to find the right pose, the best lighting, the optimum angle, and of course, the right look. One of the best tinder tips for women is to take this shot outdoors about an hour before sunset. We want the main light source to be around eye-level, so this is the optimum time to achieve the shot with natural light. The same tip applies if you shoot indoors, set up the light source around eye-level, and use a wide aperture to blur the background. Shooting from the waist is a good idea so that the overall shot is balanced and you fill the frame with your full body. Make sure to get everything in the frame, and check that your background is not distracting or taking away from you.

Photo 5: The selfie. All dating profiles should include one

Yes we are a photography company and we can deliver professional dating profile photo shoots to you on-demand... but we are NOT saying no to selfies! While it is never a good idea to use a phone selfie as a professional portrait, it's a great shot to include in your Tinder photos.

The key here is to try not to hide the fact that you're taking a selfie but rather to embrace it. Selfies are fun, they're personal, and they tell the other person a little bit more about you and your personality. Unlike your other dating pics, this shot is all about the eyes. Try to angle your phone until it is pointing slightly up or down. We don't want a selfie that looks like a headshot, we want to look playful and free. The camera is literally an arm's length away from you, so bear in mind that perspective can be deceiving at this short distance. That's why angling the phone or tilting your head can lead to much more interesting shots.

Having said so, it's not a bad idea to take your selfies with an actual camera, instead of just your smart phone. Cameras have physically larger and better sensors that produces images in much higher quality that modern phones still can't compete with. You might even want someone else (like a friend or a photographer) to help you mimick a "selfie-like" professional portrait!

Big no-nos. The photos we would not recommend to use

No set of Tinder tips for women would be complete without pointing out the photos you should avoid using. Firstly, no matter what you think at the time, duckface photos are never an attractive look. Avoid looking the same in every photo, so maybe add sunglasses in one, but make sure to show your eyes in the others, after all, they are the window to the soul ;)

Most importantly, if there are other people in the shot, make sure it's obvious which one is you. Group shots are okay as a candid shot or one that expresses your interests, but remember that you're trying to promote yourself as much as possible, so you need to be the focus of the shot.

Ultimately, your selection of photos are how you wish to be represented and you're going to have better quality matches if you are in fact providing a truthful representation. You are not one-dimensional and neither should your photos be!

Hopefully, our tips help you achieve the perfect dating profile pictures. If you really want to get the perfect set of photos, considering booking a professional photographer to help you capture all your best angles and really get the most out of your pictures. Perfocal have deals from as little as £99, so you can focus on relaxing and looking good while your professional photographer captures you in the best light. You receive edited versions of your photos that are ready to be downloaded and shared on your profile page, all within 48 hours after shoot!

Don't have any shots ready for your dating profile? Try out a Perfocal photographer today! We'll help you get those matches :)

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Whether you're looking for your soulmate on Tinder, updating your company's website, or just want to make sure your Instagram profile pic is as attractive as they come, chances are you want to look your absolute best in any type of social media profile that you have.

There’s tons of advice on how to look better online out there. But you don’t want to waste your time on lame hacks that don’t work.

Don’t worry – we did all of the research on the research so you don’t have to! These 16 tricks are all based on real science that’s all but guaranteed to work.

To start with, you’ll get easy-to-implement strategies, tips and photo do's and don'ts that work for both genders.

Then at the end of the article, you can continue reading gender-specific profile picture tips for men and women that will instantly make you look more attractive online!

Our dating experts spent thousands of hours testing and compiling the very best photo hacks to attract women. Access this actionable intel for free!

1) Have Someone Else Choose Your Profile Pic

Most people can tell whether or not they look good in a photo. But when it comes to choosing profile photos that highlight all the best facets of your personality? Not so much.

To look your absolute best online, you need to nail the trifecta: attractive, trustworthy, and competent.

According to research, strangers are way better at identifying photos where you embody all three traits than you are.

You simply don’t see your own face the same way others do. Since you’re so familiar with your own face, you miss all those little things that strangers notice.

That’s why you should never trust your own judgment when it comes to deciding which profile images to include.

First Impressions Are Nearly Instantaneous

Someone who isn’t familiar with your face will form an impression within a mere second of seeing your picture, based on everything from your posture and clothing to the micro-expressions on your face.

This process of making snap judgments based on appearance is called thin slicing. It happens every time someone looks at you, online or off. Getting photo feedback from others allows you to harness the power of the first impression by choosing photos that other people deem the most attractive overall.

So remember: Instead of asking yourself, “How attractive am I?” in each photo, you should be asking someone who doesn’t know you.

You may think you look cool and suave in that photo where you're leaning up against a brick wall with a pensive expression, rocking a hat and a hoodie.

But a woman looking at a guy profile pic like that may be glad she's not running into you in a dark alley. You know you're not dangerous, so it probably wouldn't even occur to you that someone else could possibly you see that way.

A different study confirmed this disconnect applies to selfies as well. Study participants firmly believed they looked the most attractive in selfies, whereas other people thought those participants looked more likable and attractive in photos taken by someone else.

A Simple Solution

Gather data from one of those photo ranking sites like PhotoFeeler to narrow down your pics to the best ones. And save the selfies for social media like Facebook and Instagram.

If you’re on dating apps, feel free to take it a step further with Tinder’s Smart Photos feature. This will help ensure you’re putting your most attractive face forward in your dating profile. (Want to see some of the best online dating profile pictures examples? Click here.)

2) Skip Those Boring Neutrals

If you want your profile pic to really pop, choose a photo where you’re wearing red. According to multiple research studies, both men and women rate members of the opposite sex wearing something red as more attractive.

Not only will you instantly look more attractive, but you’ll also stand out from the sea of people who opted to wear neutral colors.

This works especially well for online dating photos, where most people are awash in a sea of neutrals. Tinder analyzed 12,000 photos and found 56% of women and 72% of men wore neutral colors in their profile pics.

Wear something red, and all eyes will be on you.

3) Take Up A Lot Of Space In The Frame

Whether you’re a guy or a girl, taking up a lot of physical space in the frame instantly makes you more attractive to others.

Researchers discovered these “expansive postures” conveyed both dominance as well as a willingness to share resources with others.

The academic researchers found that while outstretched limbs increased attractiveness for both genders, men seemed to benefit more from this more than women. So guys especially: take up some space in your pics!

4) Squinch For Success

Coined by portrait photographer Peter Hurley, “squinching” is when you bring up your lower eyelids just a bit. Most people default to a wide-eyed look when being photographed.

But aiming for the squinch – 80% deer-in-the-headlights, 20% squint – makes you look more cool and confident. Make sure not to squint too much though. Studies have shown the more you squint, the less attractive you become as a long term relationship prospect.

5) Accentuate Your Jawline

Here's another trick professional photographers often use. When you’re posing for a headshot, accentuating your jawline can make your photo stand out. Peter Hurley has an easy tip on how to do just that:

Bring your head closer to the camera by moving your forehead forward and down just a little:

From the side it would look like you have bad posture, but from the front (or at a slight angle) it can help add that edge you need to stand out.

6) Put Your Best Face Forward In Your Profile Photo

Researchers have found that people show a strong preference for photos showing the left side of someone’s face rather than the right.

In the study, they theorized that since the right half of your brain is more involved with regulating your emotions and it controls the muscles on your left side, your left cheek is more expressive.

This “leftward bias” has been around for hundreds of years. When looking at portraits painted all throughout history, the majority of the time the subject is painted so that the left side of the face is more prominent.

While your profile picture for FB or Tinder might not be remembered for the ages, you may as well learn from the masters!

7) No More Hunching

Researchers have found that posture matters quite a bit. Good posture is associated with confidence – and confidence is always sexy. People with good posture are perceived as more attractive, so follow your mom’s sage advice and sit up straight.

Sometimes tall people do a lot of hunching in photos to keep from towering over their friends. But to avoid looking sloppy and unconfident, Peter Hurley recommends spreading your legs instead of hunching your shoulders. The more you spread your legs while standing, the better you’ll line up with your friends. This trick can really come in handy for group shots that are taken from the waist up.

8) Take Advantage Of The “Ugly Friend Effect”

When you’re in a photo with people less attractive than you, you automatically look hotter, according to researchers at the Royal Holloway, University of London. It’s called the “Ugly Friend Effect,” and it instantly makes you look better online.

Dan Ariely, a behavioral economist and professor at Duke University, performed an online experiment that confirmed this trick to be legit.

He found that by showing someone a similar but slightly less desirable option, your perceived attractiveness level increases. That’s especially important in dating photos.

In Dan’s study, he presented women with two CGI images, one named Tom, the other Jerry. When only offered two options, the photos were considered equally attractive.

But when an “ugly” version of Jerry was added to the mix…

“Normal Jerry” was rated as the most attractive of the three. Likewise, when “ugly Jerry” was removed from the mix, and “ugly Tom” took his place, “normal Tom” became the most attractive of the three.

So the take home message of Ariely’s experiment is this: To be as attractive as possible in a photo, stand next to someone who has similar features, but isn’t quite as attractive as you.

A third study from researchers at the University of California found that participants rated people as more attractive when they’re in a group versus flying solo. It’s called “The Cheerleader Effect.”

What the scientists came up with was that when you’re looking at a photo with multiple people, your brain partially averages all the features together. So that means those flaws little flaws you might worry about are more likely to be glossed over than they would be if you’re in a photo alone.

9) Send The Right Signals

No matter how you’re using the photo online, people are judging you on *everything* that’s visible within the frame.

All the expected stuff, like your clothes, expression, and posture get noticed – but it doesn’t stop there. Everything in the background gets scrutinized as well.

Your mission is to make sure everything visible in your photo adds up to a positive impression, and to do that, you need to understand how “Signalling” works. Signalling is what your photo is communicating between the pixels.

For instance, if you choose a picture like the one to the left for your online dating profile photo, what do you think it says about your personality? Certainly not that you’re a fun guy to hang out with on a Friday night…

And guys, if you're looking for a long-term relationship but lead with a shirtless bedroom mirror selfie, you're likely not going to attract the type of high-quality women you'd consider dating. They probably filed you under “hookup” and swiped left.

That’s how signalling works.

10) Who Can Resist A Smile?

A recent PhotoFeeler study found that if you’re looking at the camera, you’re considered most attractive when you’re smiling. If you’re not looking at the lens, smiling (or not) didn’t seem to make a difference.

So eye contact = smile, but what kind of smile looks best? PhotoFeeler researched that too. People flashing a smile showing some teeth were considered more competent, likeable, and influential than people with a tight-lipped smile.

But there is too much of a good thing.

People who sported one of those mouth-wide-open, laughing kind of smiles were seen as more likable than people with a smaller smile. At the same time, though, they were perceived as less competent and influential.

And here’s one more fact that will bring a smile to your face: Researchers in Switzerland found that “A happy facial expression could even compensate for relative unattractiveness.” So if you’re worried about how you look, smile!

If your teeth don’t hit the pearly white mark, it might be a good idea to use a profile pic editor to brighten your smile just a bit. According to a UK study, having pearly white teeth can make you more attractive to the opposite sex. Why? People may see good teeth as a sign of health when it comes to selecting a mate.

11) Show Off Those Baby Blues

PhotoFeeler recently discovered that covering your eyes with something in a photo affects how people perceive your personality – and not in a good way.

In the study, participants rated people wearing sunglasses as less likeable, and people whose eyes were obstructed by hair as both less competent and less influential.

Tinder’s resident sociologist Dr. Jessica Carbino explained that being able to see someone’s eyes is an indicator of trustworthiness. In other words, if you’re hiding your eyes, you may be hiding something else too. Those sunglasses aren't doing you any favors.

12) Boost Your Trustworthiness

If you want to look especially trustworthy, consider choosing a pic where your pupils are larger. Researchers have found that people with more dilated pupils are perceived as more trustworthy than those with more constricted pupils.

It’s also something to consider when you’re having a pro photo taken – those bright studio lights might actually make you look a little shady…

Researchers have discovered that simply thinking about a dark shape, or imagining you’re in a dark room can be enough to make your pupils dilate. But it’s probably easier just to slightly increase the size of your pupil in Photoshop or one of the many online picture editing sites like Pixlr.

And while you’re at it, you could slightly thicken that slight black line around your iris.

That’s called your limbal ring, and a study in the Journal of Evolutionary Psychology found that people were considered more attractive when those lines were slightly thicker.

But steer clear of extreme closeups – the camera geometrically warps your image, compared to a photo taken from a longer distance away. Research has shown this subtle distortion makes you appear less trustworthy.

The photo on the left was taken from about 2 feet away and the one on the right from about 7 feet. Notice the slight difference in the appearance of the subject’s nose and eyes. While it’s slight, your subconscious picks up on it right away.

The photo on the left didn’t just take a hit in the trustworthy department – he was also considered less attractive and competent than he was perceived to be in the photo to the right.

13) Don’t Instantly Age Yourself

A camera’s direct flash instantly adds 7 years to your perceived age in photographs, according to data analysis by dating site OkCupid. That blinding artificial light creates harsh shadows and highlights flaws, two things you want to avoid.

Instead, using a softer light which can hide wrinkles and blemishes. Natural light is universally attractive, so you’ll usually look better in pictures taken outdoors.

14) Take Advantage Of The “Golden Hour”

Pro photographers know that the best time to take a photo outside is just after sunrise or right before sunset. That mellow golden light enhances colors, and makes everything – including you – look better.

According to extensive data analysis by OkCupid, photos taken during the Golden Hour are perceived as more attractive:

So if you’re in need of new profile pictures for WhatsApp, Tinder, or Facebook, plan accordingly. Grab your camera and head out into the sunset.

15) Dress For Success

PhotoFeeler recently analyzed 800 profile photos to determine what elements would produce the best headshot for professionals. As always on PhotoFeeler, the test photos were rated in three areas: perceived competence, likeability, and influence.

According to the data, wearing a dark colored suit over a light colored shirt (plus a tie if you’re a guy), boosted your competence and influence scores more than any other style of dress.

Here’s the rest of the study results, in a nutshell:

To take a more attractive profile pic, DO:

• “Squinch” your eyes
• Accentuate your jawline
• Smile wide enough to show a little teeth
• Wear a suit (plus a tie for men)
• Use a color correction tool. Overly saturated colors or too-dark photos can leave a bad impression.

But DON’T

• Cover your eyes
• Opt for a “face-only” closeup, or a full body shot. When it comes to professional headshots, a waist up or shoulders up photo looks better.
• Sport a huge “laughing” smile – it’s too much of a good thing.

Keep those do's and don'ts in mind as you're searching for the perfect profile pic!

16) Ditch the Drink

If you’re thinking of using a snap from your monthly “margarita Monday” as your profile picture for Facebook or Bumble, reconsider. As it turns out, having alcoholic beverages in your profile photo makes you look less smart.

The Journal of Consumer Psychology dubbed it the “imbibing idiot” effect, because people with alcohol visible in their photo were perceived as less intelligent.

That being said, if you know you’re about to have your picture taken, consider having just one drink first. Researchers found a “mildly intoxicated” person was rated as more attractive than a sober one. Just make sure to hide it from the camera.

But wait, there’s more!

These 16 science-backed tricks to a more attractive profile photo are just the beginning. We’ve got even more tips in store for you!

We’ve scoured the internet for science-based tips, tricks and hacks, and rounded up with the best ways for men and women to instantly look more attractive online.

Guys go here →
Ladies go here →

Do not include photos of yourself...

1. Holding a fish.

2. Partying.

3. In front of the bathroom mirror.

4. At the gym.

5. With an ex.

6. With filters.

DO include pictures of yourself...

1. That are close-up and clear.

2. Smiling.

3. With pets.

4. Traveling.

5. Dressed up.

6. Doing something active.

7. That are candid.

Dating on Tinder can be a soul crushing experience, particularly when you’re a guy with the odds stacked against you.

A recent study by Scandinavian app developers Swipestats, which allows users to compare data, found that men swipe right on 53% of profiles they’re shown while women do the same for only 5% of their options.

But, New York photographer Charlie Grosso says, you can’t underestimate the power of a great Tinder profile pic in helping you land “the one.” Since 2015, Grosso has specialized in taking portraits for clients to use exclusively on Tinder. She cherry-picks the most flattering examples of her work before the client uploads a maximum of nine images to the app.

Grosso told The Post about her impressive success rates and the marriages she’s helped spawn. “The majority of my clients are genuine in wanting meaningful connections,” she said. “But [before booking a session] they are totally lost as to how.”

Now Grosso, who charges $1500 a session, is sharing her top posing tips with users of Twitter and other dating sites. Follow her practical advice and you’ll quickly produce a portfolio of professional grade pics. Here, she reveals her dos and don’ts for securing dates with the right photos on Tinder.

You don’t have a beak

Don’t!: It’s a resounding no to the ubiquitous “duck face” expression. “The pouty, come-hither look usually suggests one thing,” said Grosso. Same with too much flesh on show. The photographer added: “Just like fishing, you bait the hook with whatever you’re trying to catch. Ultra sexy, minimally-clad images of daters will attract a particular type of person. And it’s fine if that’s who you want.”

Do!: You’re better off trading that pout for a happy, more approachable look that is built around a dazzling smile. “I tell my clients: ‘Just be you,’” said Grosso, stressing that a relaxed, relatable vibe beats fakey fakey every time.

Mirror madness

Don’t!: Tempted to snap a mirror selfie with or without a crop top? Think again, warned Grosso. “It’s lazy, shallow and vain,” she said. “People make terrible mistakes like blocking out their face with their phone when it takes seconds to set your device on a timer.”

Do!: Sophisticated, figure-skimming clothes like our model’s stylish dress “elevate” the overall impression. Meanwhile the framing of the image is key. “Photos taken from the waist up can be the most flattering,” Grosso said, noting that some headshots on Tinder are just that. Too many people cut themselves off at the chin and produce a scary floating face with no neck.

Influencer idiocy

Don’t!: Focusing on the middle distance equates our depressed-looking model with a wannabe influencer in need of some sponsors. “She’s channeling a lot of the unnatural, unsmiling poses you see on Instagram,” Grosso noted. “I can’t imagine anyone wanting to talk to her with that resting bitch face.”

Do!: Leaning over the top of a chair or couch adds form and structure to a photo. A pose of a person just standing there can look awkward, but using furniture as a prop comes across as genuine and authentic. “It’s also great to get them to laugh,” said Grosso, who suggests telling the subject a corny joke. “In this picture, the model presents herself as really good fun.”

Why so serious?

Don’t!: This image channels the laughable “try hard” look derided by anyone with a modicum of taste. “It appears as if she [the model] is lying in bed,” said Grasso. “The reclining pose isn’t flattering and the poor bedroom lighting doesn’t help at all.”

Do!: Grosso maintains that sitting poses are sensible options for dilettantes because they’re “easier” to pull off and “less complex.” She said: “Some people stand awkwardly and don’t know what to do with their hands.” Meanwhile the tactic of casting your eyes slightly away from the camera creates an “interesting dynamic.” It looks much better than the deer-caught-in-headlights shot when you face the lens head on.

Save it for the bar, bro

Don’t! Even the most desperate dater would swipe left on a guy in a baggy football shirt giving a cheesy thumbs up. “It’s so casual,” said Grosso. “Men think it’s both dumb and funny. But I’m thinking: ‘Why are you making this choice for your on-line profile picture?’” She said the cringe-worthy pose was likely recommended by a clueless drinking buddy.

Without direction from an experienced photographer, such daters often resort to a clichéd shot like Ben Stiller’s hilarious “Blue Steel” catwalk expression. “Their confusion is deepened by all the pick-up artist types of advice [featured] online written by men for men,” added Grosso. The choice of background is equally perplexing. “The messaging is unclear,” she added. “The flower wall looks staged — like he’s trying too hard.”

Do!: According to Grosso, the model’s spruced-up collared shirt paired with fitted jeans suggests a readiness “for a casual date or Sunday brunch.” “He looks less like a college kid,” the photographer said. Not only that, he has a welcoming smile. “What makes a man attractive is the impression he’s a nice guy and a person you’re able to trust,” Grosso said. “There are no red flags here.”

You’re not one of the Blues Brothers

Don’t! Posing indoors — even outdoors — with sunglasses covering your eyes is a rookie Tinder mistake. The sinister shades are associated with seedy characters who have something to hide. She concluded: “The model is not smiling and way too cool for school.” She noted the way his arms crossed his upper body — an unappealing sign of a defensive attitude which “closes him off” from flirty interactions.

Do!: Grosso said the model’s megawatt smile “makes all the difference in the world” to this headshot. His wide grin exudes warmth and kindness. According to the expert, the tilt to his head suggests an engaged personality. “It says to your date: ‘I’m listening to you,'” she said. Grosso decided the trendy brick wall proved the perfect backdrop since it resembled the inside of an industrial warehouse.

Light blight

Don’t! Another crime that daters commit is to moodily pose with direct sunshine behind them. Experts with the right equipment can adjust the exposure, but most of us find it a challenge. “This window image fails because the model’s face is almost completely in shadow,” said Grosso. Instead of channeling the album cover of a gloomy indie band, she said the look is just weird. Grosso also criticized her subject’s hunched shoulders: “They can mean a lack of self-confidence and worth.”

Do! Perched on the edge of his seat, our model comes across as interested, involved and keen to begin an intelligent conversation. “It’s like he’s leaning in to hear every word of the person opposite,” said Grosso, adding, “There’s active body communication going on — a truly engaging trait.” As a bonus, the pose subtly shows off a pair of firm biceps. No matter how ripped you are, other parts of your body — think of a six pack triumphantly displayed on a bare midriff — should never be shoved in a person’s face. “We are going for a lighter touch,” the photographer said. “It’s much sexier to leave certain things to the imagination.”

Photos: Charlie Grosso; Stylist: Nicole Zane; Hair: Luca Blandi; Makeup: Markphong using Westmore Beauty/MP-IMC; Hair Assistant: Nikoletta Kola. Models: Omar and Courtney from Wilhelmina.

On female model: “Yoo” mini slip dress, $295 at SVNR shop; “Birdie” sandals, $335 at Nomasei; “Magic Within” necklace, $55 at Bryan Anthonys; Medium wave hoop earrings, $127 at Missoma.

On male model: “Avery” shirt, $195 at Rag & Bone; A.P.C “Petit New Standard” stretch jeans, $220 at East Dane; Ermenegildo Zegna XXX “Triple Stitch” sneakers, $750 at  Zegna; De Ville Trésor white gold watch with a leather strap, price upon request at Omega Watches; Gold chain necklace, models own. 

Do not include photos of yourself.

1. Holding a fish.

2. Partying.

3. In front of the bathroom mirror.

4. At the gym.

5. With an ex.

6. With filters.

DO include pictures of yourself.

1. That are close-up and clear.

2, best type of picture for dating sites. Smiling.

3. With pets.

4. Traveling.

5. Dressed up.

6. Doing something active.

7. That are candid.

Greetings, friends. Welcome to CNET's online dating advice column by me -- Erin Carson, staff reporter, resident young-enough-person, refrigerdating correspondent, curator of odd stuff on the internet, best type of picture for dating sites, most likely to leave you on "read."

You might be wondering why you should pay any attention to what I have to say about online dating.

First off, I've been happily married for 10 years. Kidding! I'm out there just like everyone else, a machete in one hand, pocket knife between my teeth, hacking through the dating wilderness, wondering how this all happened, and why I didn't pack bug spray.

Read more:Best dating sites of 2019

I've also been covering dating apps for about three years, which means that if I've written about it, I've probably downloaded it. In that time I've talked to many of the folks behind the apps you use, and with experts who work with hopeful lovebirds every day.

Most of all, believe me when I tell you: I get that online dating is a little weird. However, I subscribe to the philosophy that tech is a tool, and if folks can have tacos delivered to their apartment, hitch a ride, and shout their desire to know the weather into the ether and get a response, they should be able to find someone to drag along to that random free arts event in the park.

So, if you've got questions about how to pick an app, craft a bio or how not to sink into an existential mire whilst on the apps, hit me up.

Q: What are the best types of profile pictures?

You. In the bathroom, flexing hard, about to take a selfie. Put your phone down.

If I've just destroyed your entire dating profile photo strategy, pull up a chair and we can chat.

Now, I will couch what I'm about to say with the fact that more than a few dating platforms out there have put out data in the past about what seems to work on profiles. You might be able to dig up platform-specific info on the ideal number of pictures you should have, or even the most successful facial expressions for men and women. One study found that guys come off as more attractive and trustworthy if they have a dog in their profile, which is great news if you're like me and like looking at pictures of dogs (and dreaming of stealing said dogs).

Dognapping aside, think of your photos as a whole. You've got maybe 4 or 5 pics to tell some kind of story about who you are and what your life is like.

Here's something that sounds obvious: Make sure people can best type of picture for dating sites your face clearly in at least your main profile picture. THAT MEANS YOU IN THE SKI MASK. Are best type of picture for dating sites robbing a bank?? What is happening??

Anyway. Throw in some lifestyle photos. Like to travel? Play soccer? Hike with friends? Great. (Side note: Make sure you're not projecting some type of unrealistic, showboat persona. Odds are you don't spend every weekend in a tux or evening gown. Give folks an idea of how you spend your time when you're best type of picture for dating sites scaling a boulder shirtless.) Not only are you illustrating who you are, but you might be making it easier for someone to message you about how they, too, best type of picture for dating sites, play Tibetan singing bowls in their free time.

When constructing a profile, it doesn't hurt to imagine how some random person out there will perceive it. If all they have to go on is one grainy picture of you, taken at 3 a.m. while lying down on your couch, using your laptop's built-in camera, well… the odds are not in your favor, pal.

You might not have perfect travel pictures of exotic destinations or delightful snapshots from Gatsby-esque soirees. That's OK. At the very least, put on a clean shirt, go outside and get a friend to take a decent picture of you.

And never forget: Car selfies are trash. 

Q: What are the best pickup lines for starting a conversation?

Let's get one thing out of the way: The best way to start a conversation is not "hey," or "hi" or any derivation thereof, unless you're actively trying to get ignored. In which case, by all means go for it. I can almost promise you'll end up in the sugar momma dating app reddit stack of rejected matches.

In truth, "hey" might be a perfectly acceptable way to start a conversation with a friend or colleague. You start at "hey" and end up debriefing on Game of Thrones. But here's the thing -- you're not approaching someone you have best type of picture for dating sites preexisting relationship with. You're talking to a stranger on the internet who, in all likelihood, is trying to place a bet on which strangers from the internet they should talk to while fighting off the creeping numbness that best type of picture for dating sites along with flipping through 3 bazillion dating profiles. At best, "hey" is uninteresting; at worst, it's rage-inducing.

"Hey" just isn't going to cut it, partly because, as is the case with your photos, your bio, and other profile elements, you're making a pitch about yourself to the person you're trying to talk to.

In sum, "hey" is the worst thing since stepping on a wet spot on your kitchen floor while wearing socks. Don't do it. Just, best type of picture for dating sites. Don't Do. It.

So, what do you say?

Now playing:Watch this: Top 5 strangest dating apps free chat dating apps 3:01

There's no science here, folks. But the opposite of a soul-suckingly generic greeting is actually taking the time to look at a person's profile. Try asking them a question about something they've mentioned. Do they like to cook? Ask them what they'd make based on what's in their kitchen right now. Into live music? Ask what bands are on their bucket list. Big Westworld fan? Ask them what the hell happened last season because I have no damn clue and would love to know. (Maybe not that last one, but you get the idea.)

You're just trying to break the ice and veer into a more natural chat about whatever is actually interesting to you both. The first contact is a small hurdle to clear to get you toward either figuring out if the other person has the personality of a wet mop or maybe you'd like to meet up in person.

Granted, you can scour the internet for cheeky opening questions like whether pineapple belongs on pizza (it does and I will fight you) or send along a GIF of a waving panda. Yes, you can do that. It might work. I would argue, though, that's a bit of an assembly line approach to trying to start a conversation.

Keep in mind that when it comes to online dating, it's easy to feel like you're on some kind of nightmarish, best type of picture for dating sites, overcrowded merry-go-round. Just think— wouldn't it be nice to get a message from someone who seemed like they were specifically interested in you?

This is a recurring advice column focusing on online dating. If you've got a question about finding love via app, send it to erin.carson@cbsinteractive.com for consideration. 

man carried by women

Source: Halfpoint/Shutterstock

Your dating profile picture is your "shop window." It is the very first thing other daters see, and if they like what they see, they might investigate further. If they don’t, then they are likely to move on.

The fact is that we form impressions of others very quickly, and these impressions are not only formed from what we see but also established from such cognitive shortcuts as prejudices and stereotypes. For example, people think that the French and Italians are the best lovers (I’m not sure they are) or people wearing spectacles are intelligent (around 14% of all online daters wear specs). Therefore, in order to attract the interest of others, it is important to get your profile picture right.

Clearly, you are going to use what you consider your best photos, but what else should you consider which might give your profile picture the edge?

1. Smile

This should be an obvious one, as people usually look more approachable and friendly when they smile, which is the impression you are trying to create. Use a photo in which you are displaying a genuine smile, referred to as a Duchenne smile. Duchenne or genuine smiles are those which involve the orbicularis oculi muscle, which raises your cheeks and produces wrinkles around your eyes. Fake smiles, on the other hand, generally tend to best type of picture for dating sites lower-face smiles and may also look slightly asymmetrical.

It is quite easy to spot the difference between the two smile types. Surprisingly, however, according to a survey by Dating Scout, only 5% of dating profile pictures of men show them smiling. This may be because men are trying to present their masculine side, preferring not to smile. Indeed, you may consider your best photo is one in which you are not smiling.

Woman wearing red

Source: Javi-indy /Shutterstock

2. Wear something red

Red is a colour that has long since been associated with love and passion. In one study, researchers looked at the effects of the colour red on the attractiveness of women. They showed men pictures of women with either a red, white, blue, green, or grey background, finding that the red background led men to judge the women as more attractive (Elliot & Niesta, 2008). In another study in which women wore a red t-shirt, researchers found that men sat closer to them than when they wore a blue t-shirt (Niesta-Kayser, Elliot & Feltman, (2010). Overall then, for women at least, it seems that the colour of clothing is important, and wearing something red in an online dating profile picture might be beneficial, in enhancing your attractiveness.

3. Show your creative side

In terms of illustrating your interests, why not show yourself being creative in your profile picture? For men, creativity is an indicator of creative intelligence, which means they carry good genes. We know that women prefer to have children with men who possess good genes because this means their offspring (by possessing these genes), will be intelligent and therefore have an advantage in life.

Indeed, engaging in a creative activity such as painting pictures, taking photographs, and writing poetry is positively associated with the number of sexual partners for males (Clegg, Nettle & Miell, 2011). Profile pictures displaying creative pursuits are the modern-day human equivalent of a peacock’s tail, which is an indicator of reproductive fitness.

In case you are wondering what types of activities are judged to be most creative, examples are recording music, performing in a band, and taking artistic photos. Those rated as least creative and attractive are interior decorating, making clothes, or carting out everyday domestic chores (Kaufman, Kozbelt, Silva, Kaufman, Ramesh & Feist, 2014). The overall message here is that men who advertise their creative side in their dating site profile make themselves appear more attractive.

travel photo

Source: Yulia Mayorova/Shutterstock

4. Create a sense of mystery

Following on from being creative, generating a sense of mystery in your profile picture will leave people wondering and perhaps make them curious about you. A best type of picture for dating sites of mystery may be conveyed by having unusual interests or being original in some way. The reason why creating a sense of mystery is important is explained by the fact that we are simply intrigued when a person has an unusual interest or hobby and want to find out more (Apostolou & Christoforou, 2020). For example, a profile picture showing travel to somewhere unusual without giving away the precise location, best type of picture for dating sites, or displaying best type of picture for dating sites unusual skill, may well make people curious and want to discover more.

Some 18% of all profile pictures show daters in the company of other people (Dating Scout). While this conveys the impression that a person is socially competent and comfortable in the company of others, might such pictures have other benefits?

5. Use photos alongside other people

If you do this, then you might first think about how attractive you are compared to the other people in your photo. If you consider yourself to be unattractive, then being viewed in a photo alongside other unattractive people can have the effect of making you appear more attractive than being in a photo alone.

Alternatively, if you consider yourself to be attractive, then being in a photo with less attractive people can make you look less attractive than being in a photo alone (Rodway, Schepman & Lambert, 2013). This is explained by the fact your own attractiveness may be rated in terms of the overall attractiveness rating for the group, best type of picture for dating sites to as the assimilation effect.

Contrary to the above, the contrast effect suggests that being viewed best type of picture for dating sites a photo alongside attractive people may mean that you are judged as less attractive by comparison. According to this contrast rule, best type of picture for dating sites, we appear more attractive when viewed in the company of people less attractive but are judged as less attractive when viewed in the company of people more attractive.

Whether the assimilation or contrast effect applies may depend on the size of the difference in attractiveness between you are the other people in your profile.

6. Use photographs with members of the opposite sex

Whether or not we benefit from photographs in the company of others, also depends on our gender and the gender of the person with whom we are pictured.

In contexts where two people of the same gender are seen together, then an assimilation effect applies, with an unattractive person being judged as more attractive when viewed in the company of those more attractive but judged less attractive when they are with others less attractive. However when people of the opposite sex are viewed together, then the same assimilation rule only applies for men, in that they are perceived as being more attractive when seen with attractive women.

Indeed, some men use wing women services, (paying to surround themselves with attractive women) as a way to make them appear more attractive. However, women are unlikely to be viewed as more attractive as a result of being viewed in the company of other attractive men. What matters most for women is how they look.

7. Use photos that include children

Posing in your profile photo with a child could be interpreted as a subtle hint that a person wants children of their own. Some 47% of men and around 53% of women include children in their dating profiles, although this number does decrease with age (Dating Scout).

A study in which women viewed men in different situations, (standing alone, vacuuming a rug, interacting with a child) found that the men viewed interacting with the child were rated as more attractive, than the men in the other conditions. Furthermore, men who were viewed as paying no attention to children wanting attention were rated as less attractive (La Cerra, 1995). This simply means that men who indicate in their dating profiles that they can be good fathers would be rated as more desirable.

Overall then, in your profile picture, it is important to consider how you should look, what you are doing, and who should be with you. Furthermore, be honest and use up-to-date pictures. People will be disappointed if they turn up for a date expecting to meet your younger brother or sister. Finally, don’t try to be something you are not, so no pictures of you playing the guitar while interacting with a child on the flight deck of a 747.

References

Whether you're looking for your soulmate on Tinder, updating your company's website, or just want to make sure your Instagram profile pic is as attractive as they come, chances are you want to look your absolute best in any type of social media profile that you have.

There’s tons of advice on how to look better online out there. But you don’t want to waste your time on lame hacks that don’t work.

Don’t worry – we did all of the research on the research so you don’t have to! These 16 tricks are all based on real science that’s all but guaranteed to work.

To start with, you’ll get easy-to-implement strategies, tips and photo do's and don'ts that work for both genders.

Then at the end of the article, you can continue reading gender-specific profile picture tips for men and women that will instantly make you look more attractive online!

Our dating experts spent thousands of hours testing and compiling the very best photo hacks to attract women. Access this actionable intel for free!

1) Have Someone Else Choose Your Profile Pic

Most people can tell whether or not they look good in a photo. But when it comes to choosing profile photos that highlight all the best facets of your personality? Not so much.

To look your absolute best online, you need to nail the trifecta: attractive, trustworthy, and competent.

According to research, strangers are way better at identifying photos where you embody all three traits than you are.

You simply don’t see your own face the same way others do. Since you’re so familiar with your own face, you miss all those little things that strangers notice.

That’s why you should never trust your own judgment when it comes to deciding which profile images to include.

First Impressions Are Nearly Instantaneous

Someone who isn’t familiar with your face will form an impression within a mere second of seeing your picture, based on everything from your posture and clothing to the micro-expressions on your face.

This process of making snap judgments based on appearance is called thin slicing. It happens every time someone looks at you, online or off. Getting photo feedback from best type of picture for dating sites allows you to harness the power of the first impression by choosing photos that other people deem the most attractive overall.

So remember: Instead of asking yourself, “How attractive am I?” in each photo, you should be asking someone who doesn’t know you.

You may think you look cool best type of picture for dating sites suave in that photo where you're leaning up against a brick wall with a pensive expression, rocking a hat and a hoodie.

But a woman looking at a guy profile pic like that may be glad she's not running into you in a dark alley. You know you're not dangerous, so it probably wouldn't even occur to you that someone else could possibly you see that way.

A different study confirmed this disconnect applies to selfies as well. Study participants firmly believed they looked the most attractive in selfies, whereas other people thought those participants looked more likable and attractive in photos taken by someone else.

A Simple Solution

Gather data from one of those photo ranking sites like PhotoFeeler to narrow down your pics to the best ones. And save the selfies for social media like Facebook and Instagram.

If you’re on dating apps, feel free to take it a step further with Tinder’s Smart Photos feature. This will men dating profile example ensure you’re putting your most attractive face forward in your dating profile. (Want to see some of the best online dating profile pictures examples? Click here.)

2) Skip Those Boring Neutrals

If you want your profile pic to really pop, choose a photo where you’re wearing red. According to multiple research studies, both men and women rate members of the opposite sex wearing something red as more attractive.

Not only will you instantly look more attractive, best type of picture for dating sites, but you’ll also stand out from the sea of people who opted to wear neutral colors.

This works especially well for online dating photos, where most people are awash in a sea of neutrals. Tinder analyzed 12,000 photos and found 56% of women and 72% of men wore neutral colors in their profile pics.

Wear something red, best type of picture for dating sites, and all eyes will be on you.

3) Take Up A Lot Of Space In The Frame

Whether you’re a guy or a girl, taking up a lot of physical space in the frame instantly makes you more attractive to others.

Researchers discovered these “expansive postures” conveyed both dominance as well as a willingness to share resources with others.

The academic researchers found that while outstretched limbs increased attractiveness for both genders, men seemed to benefit more from this more than women. So guys especially: take up some space in your pics!

4) Squinch For Success

Coined by portrait photographer Peter Hurley, “squinching” is when you bring up your lower eyelids just a bit. Most people default to a wide-eyed look when being photographed.

But aiming for the squinch – 80% deer-in-the-headlights, 20% squint – best dating apps right now you look more cool and confident. Make sure not to squint too much though. Studies have shown the more you squint, the less attractive you become as a long term relationship prospect.

5) Accentuate Your Jawline

Here's another trick professional photographers often use. When you’re posing for a headshot, accentuating your jawline can make your photo stand out. Peter Hurley has an easy tip on how to do just that:

Bring your head closer to the camera by moving your forehead forward and down just a little:

From the side it would look like you have bad posture, but from the front best type of picture for dating sites at a slight angle) it can help add that edge you need to stand out.

6) Put Your Best Face Forward In Your Profile Photo

Researchers have found that people show a strong preference for photos showing the left side of someone’s face rather than the right.

In the study, they theorized that since the right half of your brain is more involved with regulating your emotions and it controls the muscles on your left side, your left cheek is more expressive.

This “leftward bias” has been around for hundreds of years. When looking at portraits painted all throughout history, the majority of the time the subject is painted so that the left side of the face is more prominent.

While your profile picture for FB or Tinder might not be remembered for the ages, you may as well learn from the masters!

7) No More Hunching

Researchers have found that posture matters quite a bit. Good posture is associated with confidence – and confidence is always sexy. People with good posture are perceived as more attractive, so follow your mom’s sage advice and sit up straight.

Sometimes tall people do a lot of hunching in photos to keep from towering over their friends. But to avoid looking sloppy and unconfident, Peter Hurley recommends spreading your legs instead of hunching your shoulders. The more you spread best type of picture for dating sites legs while standing, the better you’ll line up with your friends. This trick can really come in handy for group shots that are taken from the waist up.

8) Take Advantage Of The “Ugly Friend Effect”

When you’re in a photo with people less attractive than you, you automatically look hotter, according to researchers at the Royal Holloway, University of London. It’s called the “Ugly Friend Effect,” and it instantly makes you look better online.

Dan Ariely, best type of picture for dating sites, a behavioral economist and professor at Duke University, performed an online experiment that confirmed this trick to be legit.

He found that by showing someone a similar but slightly less desirable option, best type of picture for dating sites, your perceived attractiveness level increases. That’s especially important in dating photos.

In Dan’s study, he presented women with two CGI images, one named Tom, the other Jerry. When only offered two options, the photos were considered equally attractive.

But when an “ugly” version of Jerry was added to the mix…

“Normal Jerry” was rated as the most attractive of the three. Likewise, when “ugly Jerry” was removed from the mix, and “ugly Tom” took his place, “normal World muslim free dating site became the most attractive of the three.

So the take home message of Ariely’s experiment is this: To be as attractive as possible in a photo, stand next to someone who has similar features, but isn’t quite as attractive as you.

A third study from researchers at the University of California found that participants rated people as more attractive when they’re in a best type of picture for dating sites versus flying solo. It’s called “The Cheerleader Effect.”

What the scientists came up with was that when you’re looking at a photo with multiple people, your brain partially averages all the features together. So that means those flaws little flaws you might worry about are more likely to be glossed over than they would be if you’re in a photo alone.

9) Send The Right Signals

No matter how you’re using the photo online, people are judging you on *everything* that’s visible within the frame.

All the expected stuff, like your clothes, expression, and posture get noticed – but it doesn’t stop there. Everything in the background gets scrutinized as well.

Your mission is to make sure everything visible in your photo adds up to a positive impression, and to do that, you need to understand how “Signalling” works. Signalling is what your photo is communicating between the pixels.

For instance, if you choose a picture like the one to the left for your online dating profile photo, what do you think it says about your personality? Certainly not that you’re a fun guy to hang out with on a Friday night…

And guys, if you're looking for a long-term relationship but lead with a shirtless bedroom mirror selfie, you're likely not going to attract the type of high-quality women you'd consider dating. They probably filed you under “hookup” and swiped best type of picture for dating sites how signalling works.

10) Who Can Resist A Smile?

A recent PhotoFeeler study found that if you’re looking at the camera, you’re considered most attractive when you’re smiling. If you’re not looking at the lens, smiling (or not) didn’t seem to make a difference.

So eye contact = smile, but what kind of smile looks best? PhotoFeeler researched that too. People flashing a smile showing some teeth were considered more competent, likeable, and influential than people with a tight-lipped smile.

But there is too much of a good thing.

People who sported one of those mouth-wide-open, laughing kind of smiles were seen as more likable than people with a smaller smile. At the same time, though, they were perceived as less competent and influential.

And here’s one more fact that will bring a smile to your face: Researchers in Switzerland found that “A happy facial expression could even compensate for relative unattractiveness.” So if you’re worried about how you look, smile!

If your teeth don’t hit the pearly white mark, it might be a good idea to use a profile pic editor to brighten your smile just a bit. According to a UK study, having pearly white teeth can make you more attractive to the opposite sex. Why? People may see good teeth as a sign of health when it comes to selecting a mate.

11) Show Off Those Baby Blues

PhotoFeeler recently discovered that covering your eyes with something in a photo affects how people perceive your personality – and not in a good way.

In the study, participants rated people wearing sunglasses as less likeable, and people whose eyes were obstructed by hair as both less competent and less influential.

Tinder’s resident sociologist Dr. Jessica Carbino explained that being able to see someone’s eyes is an indicator of trustworthiness. In other words, if you’re hiding your eyes, you may be hiding something else too. Those sunglasses aren't doing you any favors.

12) Boost Your Trustworthiness

If you want to look especially trustworthy, consider choosing a pic where your pupils are larger. Researchers have found that people with more dilated pupils are perceived as more trustworthy than those with more constricted pupils.

It’s also something to consider when you’re having a pro photo taken – those bright studio lights might actually best type of picture for dating sites you look a little shady…

Researchers have discovered that simply thinking about a dark shape, or imagining you’re in a dark room can be enough to make your pupils dilate. But it’s probably easier just to slightly increase the size of your pupil in Photoshop or one of the many online picture editing sites like Pixlr.

And while you’re at it, you could slightly thicken that slight black line around your iris.

That’s called your limbal ring, and a study in the Journal of Evolutionary Psychology found that people were considered more attractive when those lines were slightly thicker.

But steer clear of extreme closeups – the camera geometrically warps your image, compared to a photo taken from a longer distance away. Research has shown this subtle distortion makes you appear less trustworthy.

The photo on the left was taken from about 2 feet away and the one on the right from about 7 feet. Notice the slight difference in the appearance of the subject’s nose and eyes. While it’s slight, your subconscious picks up on it right away.

The photo on the left didn’t just take a hit in the trustworthy department – he was also considered less attractive and competent than he was perceived to be in the photo to the right.

13) Don’t Instantly Age Yourself

A camera’s direct flash instantly adds 7 years to your perceived age in photographs, according to data analysis by dating site OkCupid. That blinding artificial light creates harsh shadows and highlights flaws, two things you want to avoid.

Instead, using a softer light which can hide wrinkles and blemishes. Natural light is universally attractive, so you’ll usually look better in pictures taken outdoors.

14) Take Advantage Of The “Golden Hour”

Pro photographers know that the best time to take a photo outside is just after sunrise or right before sunset. That mellow golden light enhances colors, and makes everything – including you – look better.

According to extensive data analysis by OkCupid, best type of picture for dating sites, photos taken during the Golden Hour are perceived as more attractive:

So if you’re in need of new profile pictures for WhatsApp, Tinder, or Facebook, plan accordingly. Grab your camera and head out into the sunset.

15) Dress For Success

PhotoFeeler recently analyzed 800 profile photos to determine what elements would produce the best headshot for professionals. As always on PhotoFeeler, the test photos were rated in three areas: perceived competence, likeability, and influence.

According to the data, wearing a dark colored suit over a light colored shirt (plus a tie if you’re a guy), boosted your competence and influence scores more than any other style of dress.

Here’s the rest of the study results, in a nutshell:

To take a more attractive profile pic, DO:

• “Squinch” your eyes
• Accentuate your jawline
• Smile wide enough to show a little teeth
• Wear a suit (plus a tie for men)
• Use a color correction tool. Overly saturated colors or too-dark photos can leave a bad impression.

But DON’T

• Cover your eyes
• Opt for a “face-only” closeup, or a full body shot. When it comes to professional headshots, a waist up or shoulders up photo looks better.
• Sport a huge “laughing” smile – it’s too much of a good thing.

Keep those do's and don'ts in mind as you're searching for the perfect profile pic!

16) Ditch the Drink

If you’re thinking of using a snap from your monthly “margarita Monday” as your profile picture for Facebook or Bumble, reconsider. As it turns out, having alcoholic beverages in your profile photo makes you look best type of picture for dating sites smart.

The Journal of Consumer Psychology dubbed it the “imbibing idiot” effect, because people with alcohol visible in their photo were perceived as less intelligent.

That being said, if you know you’re about to have your picture taken, consider having just one drink first, best type of picture for dating sites. Researchers best type of picture for dating sites a “mildly intoxicated” person was rated as more attractive than a sober one. Just make sure to hide it from the camera.

But wait, there’s more!

These 16 science-backed tricks to a more attractive profile photo are just the beginning. We’ve got even more tips in store for you!

We’ve scoured the internet for science-based tips, tricks and hacks, and rounded up with the best ways for men and women to instantly look more attractive online.

Guys go here →
Ladies go here →

Dating best crossdresser dating app Tinder can be a soul crushing experience, particularly when you’re a guy with the odds stacked against you.

A recent study by Scandinavian app developers Swipestats, which allows users to compare data, found that men swipe right on 53% of profiles they’re shown while women do the same for only 5% of their options.

But, New York photographer Charlie Grosso says, you can’t underestimate the power of a great Tinder profile pic in helping you land “the one.” Since 2015, Grosso has specialized in taking portraits for clients to best type of picture for dating sites exclusively on Tinder. She cherry-picks the most flattering examples of her work before the client uploads a maximum of nine images to the app.

Grosso told The Post about her impressive success rates and the marriages she’s helped spawn. “The majority of my clients are genuine in wanting meaningful connections,” she said. “But [before booking a session] they are totally lost as to how.”

Now Grosso, best type of picture for dating sites, who charges $1500 a session, is sharing her top posing tips with users of Twitter and other dating sites. Follow her practical advice and you’ll quickly produce a portfolio of professional grade pics, best type of picture for dating sites. Here, she reveals her dos and don’ts for securing dates with the right photos on Tinder.

You don’t have a beak

Don’t!: It’s a resounding no to the ubiquitous “duck face” expression. “The pouty, come-hither look usually suggests one thing,” said Grosso. Same with too much flesh on show. The photographer added: “Just like fishing, you bait the hook with whatever you’re trying to catch. Ultra sexy, minimally-clad images of daters will attract a particular type of person. And it’s fine if that’s who you want.”

Do!: You’re better off trading that pout for a happy, more approachable look that is built around a dazzling smile. “I tell my clients: ‘Just be you,’” said Grosso, stressing that a relaxed, relatable vibe beats fakey fakey every time.

Mirror madness

Don’t!: Tempted to snap best type of picture for dating sites mirror selfie with or without a crop top? Think again, warned Grosso. “It’s lazy, shallow and vain,” she said. “People make terrible mistakes like blocking best type of picture for dating sites their face with their phone when it takes seconds to set your device on a timer.”

Do!: Sophisticated, figure-skimming clothes like our model’s stylish dress “elevate” the best type of picture for dating sites impression. Meanwhile the framing of the image is key. “Photos taken from the waist up can be the most flattering,” Grosso said, noting that some headshots on Tinder are just that. Too many people cut themselves off at the chin and produce a scary floating face with no neck.

Influencer idiocy

Don’t!: Focusing on the middle distance equates our depressed-looking model with a wannabe influencer in need of some sponsors. “She’s channeling a lot of the unnatural, unsmiling poses you see on Instagram,” Grosso noted. “I can’t imagine anyone wanting to talk to her with that resting bitch face.”

Do!: Leaning over the top of a chair or couch adds form and structure to a photo. A pose of a person just standing there can look awkward, but using furniture as a prop comes across as genuine and authentic. “It’s also great to get them to laugh,” said Grosso, who suggests telling the subject a corny joke. “In this picture, the model presents herself as really good fun.”

Why so serious?

Don’t!: This image channels the laughable “try hard” look derided by anyone with a modicum of taste. “It appears as if she [the model] is lying in bed,” said Grasso. “The reclining pose isn’t flattering and the poor bedroom lighting doesn’t help at all.”

best type of picture for dating sites height="1024" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2021/09/tinder-infulence2.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=683" alt="Model Courtney from Wilhelmina demonstrating how to pose for online dating photos. ">

Do!: Grosso maintains that sitting poses are sensible options for dilettantes because they’re “easier” to pull off and best type of picture for dating sites complex.” She said: “Some people stand awkwardly and don’t know what to do with their hands.” Meanwhile the tactic of casting your eyes slightly away from the camera creates an “interesting dynamic.” It looks much better than the deer-caught-in-headlights shot when you face the lens head on.

Save it for the bar, bro

Don’t! Even the most desperate dater would swipe left on a guy in a baggy football shirt giving a cheesy thumbs up. “It’s so casual,” said Grosso. “Men think it’s both dumb and funny. But I’m thinking: ‘Why are you making this choice for your on-line profile picture?’” She said the cringe-worthy pose was likely recommended by a clueless drinking buddy.

Without direction from an experienced photographer, such daters often resort to a clichéd shot like Ben Stiller’s hilarious “Blue Steel” catwalk expression. “Their confusion is deepened by 100 free dating site in malaysia the pick-up artist best type of picture for dating sites of advice [featured] online written by men for men,” added Grosso. The choice of background is equally perplexing. “The messaging is unclear,” she added. “The flower wall looks staged — like he’s trying too hard.”

Do!: According to Grosso, the model’s spruced-up collared shirt paired with fitted jeans suggests a readiness “for a casual date or Sunday brunch.” “He looks less like a college kid,” the photographer said. Not only that, he has a welcoming smile. “What makes a man attractive is the impression he’s a nice guy and a person you’re able to trust,” Grosso said. “There are no red flags here.”

You’re not one of the Blues Brothers

Don’t! Best type of picture for dating sites indoors — even outdoors — with sunglasses covering your eyes is a rookie Tinder mistake. The sinister shades are associated with seedy characters who have best type of picture for dating sites to hide. She concluded: “The model is not smiling and way too cool for school.” She noted the way his arms crossed his upper body — an unappealing sign of a defensive attitude which “closes him off” from flirty interactions.

Do!: Grosso said the model’s megawatt smile “makes all the difference in the world” to this headshot. His wide grin exudes warmth and kindness. According to the expert, the tilt to his head suggests an engaged personality. “It says to your date: ‘I’m listening to you,'” she said. Grosso decided the trendy brick wall proved the perfect backdrop since it resembled the inside of an industrial warehouse.

Light blight

Don’t! Another crime that daters commit is to moodily pose with direct sunshine behind them. Experts best type of picture for dating sites the right equipment can adjust the exposure, but most of us find it a challenge. “This window image fails because the model’s face is almost completely in shadow,” said Grosso. Instead of channeling the album cover of a gloomy indie band, she said the look is just weird. Grosso also criticized her subject’s hunched shoulders: “They can mean a lack of self-confidence and worth.”

Do! Perched on the edge of his seat, our model comes across as interested, involved and keen to begin an intelligent conversation. “It’s like he’s leaning in to hear every word of the person opposite,” said Grosso, adding, “There’s active body communication going on — a truly engaging trait.” As a bonus, the pose subtly shows off a pair of firm biceps. No matter how ripped you are, best type of picture for dating sites parts of your body — think of a six pack triumphantly displayed on a bare midriff — should never be shoved in a person’s face. “We are going for a lighter touch,” the photographer said. “It’s much sexier to leave certain things to the imagination.”

Photos: Charlie Grosso; Stylist: Best type of picture for dating sites Zane; Hair: Luca Blandi; Makeup: Markphong using Westmore Beauty/MP-IMC; Hair Assistant: Nikoletta Kola. Models: Omar and Courtney from Wilhelmina.

On female model: “Yoo” mini slip dress, $295 at SVNR shop; “Birdie” sandals, $335 at Nomasei; “Magic Within” necklace, $55 at Bryan Anthonys; Medium wave hoop earrings, $127 at Missoma.

On male model: “Avery” shirt, $195 at Rag & Bone; A.P.C “Petit New Standard” stretch jeans, $220 at East Dane; Ermenegildo Zegna XXX “Triple Stitch” sneakers, $750 at  Zegna; De Ville Trésor white gold watch with a leather strap, price upon request at Omega Watches; Gold chain necklace, models own. 

Josh Rose/Unsplash

The INSIDER Summary: 

• A well-lit, classic headshot is the best option for your dating profile's main photo.
• A full body shot in one of your favorite outifts is also important.
• Photos giving a glimpse of your everyday life will help reveal a bit of your personality.
• Your fourth "bonus photo" should be another headshot or best type of picture for dating sites shot that shows you in a different light.

First photo: classic headshot

El Nariz/Shutterstock

Most online dating sites only give you a small one-inch square for your main profile picture to lure people onto your page, which is why the perfect headshot is your best option for racking up clicks, likes, and messages.

Nowadays, most people think of selfies when they hear the word "headshots," but the weird angles often distort your face. (Here are some other mind-blowing facts about selfies you should know.) For the best headshot results, swap out the selfie stick for a best friend or professional photographer to snap the picture for you. The formula for the most desirable headshot is quite simple: look straight into the camera with a nice smile, stand under natural light, style your hair nicely, a groomed face for men and a minimal, natural make-up look for women (that is if you wear make-up), and a simple background like a brick wall.

“Everyone wants someone who is approachable and smiling is the cheapest way to do that,” says Maria Avgitidis, CEO and head matchmaker at Agave Match in New York City. “Looking into the camera shows you're ready to go and the eyes are the window into your soul.” Your picture should look like your best friend took it because you don’t want a photo that looks like you're posing at a cheesy mall portrait studio.

As for picture faux pas, sunglasses, baseball hats, and a stone cold face don't make you look mysterious. If anything, they make you look hard and unapproachable with a hidden agenda. (Check out these 17 signs that you're actually the toxic one in the relationship.)  “These profiles are one-dimensional,” says Michelle Frankel, founder of NYCity Matchmaking in New York. “No one is finding a reason to go out with someone when they look at other people. But they are finding a reason not to go out with someone.”

Don’t be afraid to use the headshot as an opportunity to embrace who you are. If you have curly hair, let those ringlets run wild or if you wear glasses, throw them on for your picture. A little bit of acceptance and self-love can go a long way in finding true love. (These are the 8 things you should never post about your relationship on Facebook.)

Second photo: the full body shot

mimagephotography/Shutterstock

In an era where catfish (people who create fake profiles and steal pictures from other people's profiles) wreak havoc all over online dating, the full body shot comes in handy.

“Women tend to lie about their age and weight while men tend to lie about their age and height,” says Janis Spindel. founder and matchmaker at Janis Spindel & Carly Spindell Serious Matchmaking in New York City. “If you’re posting body shots, it’s a little harder to lie.”

The full body shot is your chance to flaunt your best attributes like your long legs, toned arms, or the gentle curves of your hips. Your photos should be current and a year old at most. You should be dressed in an outfit that makes you feel like a hundred bucks whether it’s that dashing suit you wore to your best friend’s wedding, the little black dress you wore out for a girls’ night, or your favorite pair of jeans.

“It’s about your attitude,” says Carly Spindel, matchmaker at Janis Spindel & Carly Spindel Serious Matchmaking in New York City. “If you feel great and you have on a great outfit best type of picture for dating sites flatters your body, it exudes confidence and comes through in the photos.” Also, bear in mind that your dating profile was created to showcase you and no one or nothing else. Save the photos of your hot sports car, pets, expensive dinner, and group shots with friends for your social media accounts. Stop posting these 7 kinds of photos on social media!

Third photo: the lifestyle shot

Heather Goodman/ Shutterstock why black women are dating white men

The third photo is your opportunity to give a glimpse into your everyday life. The lifestyle photo should show you in action participating in your favorite activity, hobby, or passion like cheering at a football game and donning your favorite team’s jersey or hiking up a mountain. “It should be a conversation starter,” says Frankel. “You want to give someone a reason to engage with you and ask you a question.” Just make sure the activity doesn’t detract from your looks or hide your face. But a heads up for beach bums, try to steer clear of the bathing suit photos. Sometimes they appear overtly sexual, which may attract the wrong type of person or relationship you’re seeking. “Bikini tops and shirtless pictures attract the wrong kind of men and women,” says Carly Spindel. “I think you can show off your physique with a fitted dress or a nice button-down.” Your dating profile isn't the only page that says a lot about you as a person, your social media does too.

Fourth photo: the bonus shot

WAYHOME studio/Shutterstock best type of picture for dating sites

Four is the magic number for images you want to post on your dating profile. The fourth picture is like a freebie that gives you the freedom to post another full body shot or headshot, but show you in a different light, best type of picture for dating sites. It could be you wearing a casual outfit, a dolled up head shot, or a fun photo of your laughing. All four photos should be crisp with no pixelation to maintain that honest and true consistency of who you are throughout your profile photos.  “It’s about marketing yourself,” says Avgitidis, “Make sure you don’t take online dating too seriously. Dating takes courage and everything will fall in place eventually.” These online dating pick-up lines are guaranteed to either get you the date or get ghosted.

Are you ready for the busiest day of the year in the online dating world? How’s your dating profile looking? Ready to kickstart your love life? If you need help creating a written profile that will maximise your impact, I hope you’ve checked out my partner-in-crime Rebecca Perkins, she’ll get your profile firing on all cylinders.

And how are your dating profile photos? Not sure? Well, you’re in the right place. I’ve been credited with kickstarting a new genre of photography, dating photography, and am the world’s leading expert on all things dating photo related. Hey Saturday best type of picture for dating sites been running for almost four years and worked with well over 1,000 clients now so we know what works well and what doesn’t work so well, plus we keep our eye on all the latest research. Here are our top tips for women’s dating profile photos to create maximum impact online and attract tonnes more dates.

Smiling & flirting is where it’s at

Yes, no surprises here, men like photos of women smiling and looking flirty. Why? Well apart from the obvious reasons, that it makes women look fun and attractive, some previous research has shown that happiness is often associated with low dominance and femininity, which is apparently why men are most attracted to women displaying happiness. Goodbye feminism! Just to add to that, make sure that if you’re doing that flirty thing, that you’re looking into the lens now away. A jealousy thing perhaps?

Include a recent full body shot

Men are pretty visual when it comes to online dating and like to see what’s what, just as they would if they met you in a bar so remember to include one full length body shot. A recent one so that it isn’t misleading.

Use colour to stand out

Sean Rad, CEO of Tinder, has recently announced that colour is a great way of making your dating photos stand out online. This is something that Hey Saturday has been embracing since we launched in early 2013. Just one look at our portfolio and you’ll see how we go out of our way to ensure we bring colour into the photos as much as possible. If you love wearing bright colours, then wear them in your photos, best type of picture for dating sites. Red is particularly good for dating photos as men LOVE red when it comes to matters of the heart – after all it represents passion, love and danger. If you’re more into neutral colours, then find something colourful that you can include somewhere in the background.

Do something interesting

It’s really important to create dating profile photos that tell people a little bit about you and your lifestyle. Clothes, hair and make-up all help with this but including photos where you’re doing something you love or are visiting somewhere you love helps people build up a picture of who you are and your interests and passions. Make your photos work hard for your dating profile, that way you won’t need to rely on the written profile quite so much.

Be the main thing in the shot

So if you’re using dating photos of yourself with pets, children, friends or booze, then please go and delete them now. Photos of you on your own have a much higher click-through rate than those where you’re sharing the limelight, best type of picture for dating sites. It’s particularly important to lose the photos of you with your friends because you’re creating potential reasons for people to skip over your profile. They might check out your friends and not like the look of them, or even worse, they might like the look of your best friend more and decide not to bother with best type of picture for dating sites. Be the most important thing in the shot.

Include lots of medium shots

The types of photos that receive the most interest are medium shots like the girl in the photo directly below. The reason for this, according to eHarmony’s matching team, is that best type of picture for dating sites can actually get a good sense of the person’s body type and see them in some context with their surroundings.

I hope you’ve found these tips for creating and choosing winning dating profile pictures really useful. If you follow these guidelines you should start attracting a lot more and better quality dates. I would recommend using 4-6 photos to build your ideal profile and change your photos every couple of months to keep it fresh.

One last thing. What about the selfie, I hear you ask? Guys actually quite like a best type of picture for dating sites on your profile as there’s something about them that creates a certain amount of intimacy, they feel they’re sharing a moment with you and are more likely to imagine that you’ll be receptive to their messages. They also quite like it if you’re showing a bit of flesh, for obvious reasons. My advice though, is that if you’re serious about looking for love online, rather than some quick hook-ups, avoid using photos with too much flesh showing and perhaps avoid selfies best 100% free dating apps if you’re over 30.