In the beginning of the internet all you had was text, Then
graphics and photos followed. The reason online dating sites
have been so popular and successful is you can easily browse
photos of prospective dates. We all have a desire to go out with
people we find physically attractive. There is no better way to
attract someone who finds you attractive than by posting several
good photos.
A picture says a thousand words. No matter how descriptive and
witty you are with your personal description, many people will
not even consider someone who does not include a photo. Very few
of us are model material but that doesn't mean we can't take a
good picture. If you think by not posting a photo, someone will
get to know the real you before they see you, you are only
kidding yourself. The real you includes what you look like.
So how do you post a good photo? The best thing to do is post
several pictures that show the real you. You need a series of
photos that include: a face shot-people want to see
your smile,
they want to see your eyes. A nice smile and a sparkle in your
eyes will go along way towards attracting a compatible person.
A full body photo, so you are built average or a few extra
pounds, far better to flaunt it and be up front about it than
catch someone by total surprise. The best photos are natural,
not too posed that show us in a good light. A professional photo
is a nice addition, you can have a portrait taken at Target or
Walmart for very little cost. Glamour photos are nice but they
really don't show the true you. Photos that show you doing
something such as your trip to Mexico or out hiking, also tell
more about who you are. More than one photo reveals even more
about you and your interests.
Very few people post more than one or two photos. With the
majority of people posting bad photos, you will be way ahead of
the competition by posting several great photos. Your profile
will really stand out. A portrait, a full body shot and some fun
photos are all good choices.
Web cam photos, photos with your ex
cut out, mug shots, photos of you with your arm around a member
of the opposite sex even if they are related are a poor choice.
A person looking at your photo doesn't know who the person is.
Avoid shots that are so dark or distant that no one can see your
face. Don't use photos that are blurry or out of focus. And
don't cover up or hide your face. Don't use group photos. You
don't need someone writing to you asking if your blond friend is
available! It is your choice if you want to post photos that
include you with your children. On one hand it is nice to see
the most important people in your life but if you would rather
protect their privacy than you can leave them off.
Ideas for getting a good photo include:
* Have a friend with a digital camera take a series of photos
of you in a variety of settings, outfits, etc. and then choose
the best 2-8.
* Don't use your high school graduation picture from 1988.
* Don't use any photo no
matter how good it is, if it is older
than a year.
* Don't use a photo that shows you 50lbs lighter or back when
you had hair.
* Don't use any photo that doesn't look like you today.
* Don't use photos of your pets only or pictures of you on the
sofa with kids or pets that are not yours, it may turn some
people off.
People looking at your ad want to know the current you and your
photos should reflect that. Don't use 5 photos where you look
totally different in each one. Is this the same person or
different people? When it comes to meeting you in person you
should look like the photos you posted.
The golden rule when posting photos on dating sites is obvious -
Be Honest. We've all heard stories of people who've posted a
photo that is ten or twenty years old. Or worse still, a photo
of someone else entirely!
A misleading photo causes all sorts of unnecessary problems on a
first date. You will have your date questioning your honesty.
You want to
turn up for dates relaxed, with your best attitude
put forward. Still not convinced? Just think how you would feel,
if someone using a dishonest photo deceived you? That should be
incentive enough for you to be honest and accurate.
So what if you've gained a few pounds? Aged a bit? Give yourself
some credit, you're still a great person, and sure to be
someone's ideal match. Physical attraction is a very personal
thing. Some people may be attracted to you for your smile or
that sparkle in your eye and they may actually like your "love
handles". Don't be afraid to let people know the real you. None
of us are perfect. Attitude counts for far more than a perfect
body.
Posting accurate current pictures is the only way to go for
online dating success.
About the author:
TJ Smith is a writer, publishers and the creative force behind
several websites including Mega Date Cafe
http://www.megadatecafe.com Online dating advice, tips and news.
