ONLINE DATING PHOTOS

So you’re single, ready to mingle but totally new to the online dating game?

It is said not to judge a book by its cover. But in the online dating world, whether you’'re using Tinder, Hinge, Bumble, or any other app, a few pictures are all you have to go by in order to attract someone. Therefore the photos you choose for your profile are very important. Without decent photos, dating apps are not really worth the time or effort. Photos (particularly your main profile photo) will have the single biggest impact on your dating success, and unfortunately, many people self-sabotage their profiles with bad photos. 
So what’s the best way to maximize your chances of getting quality dates?
The tips below are meant as a guidance, and are based on my own research and experience as a professional photographer.

The best number of photos to use on a dating app.
​About 4 photos is a bare minimum, 15 will provide a great variety, with about 6-7 photos being an ideal number. 
Have a close-up, 1 or 2 candid or life-style shots, a photo that shows your hobbies or activity, 1 waist up and 1 full body shot.

Make sure all photos are recent. No older than 2-3 years old.
Don't use old photos, even if you think you look really good in them.

Avoid "selfies"
Why? Selfies are often poorly taken and feel forced. Research shows that you're 40% less likely to receive a like on Hinge if your profile picture is a selfie. Plus, selfies only show faces and are usually distorted due to cell phone lens being wide angle. Full-body shots increase the likelihood of getting messages from matches by 203%.
And definitely avoid the bathroom selfies!

Have photos if you smiling.
Smiling increases your chances of a match, so think about that next time you start pouting for the camera. In fact, pouting is a turn-off. Also avoid "duck-faces" or Snapchat filters

Avoid profile photos with sunglasses and hats. You need to show your eyes in photos Remember, they're the windows to the soul.

Avoid group shots. Do not hide behind other people. 

Avoid tiny, distant, blurry and dark photos. 
The quality has to be good, not blurred or pixelated, the photo must be shot in good light. You should be the main focus of the photo, without too many distractions on the background.

Have a photo with your pet, if you have one.
You will be seen as 50% more trustworthy and 33% more attractive with a dog, compared to without.

Outfits and grooming are key.
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.
You should be dressed in an outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks. Photos should reflect your style and who you want to attract. Clothing and wardrobe should match environments. Show a range of looks (casual, athletic, stylish, professional, special event etc.)

MOST IMPORTANT TIP: LOOK LIKE YOURSELF!

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