My Quick 7 Item Checklist to Superstar Online Dating Profile Photos!

Just the other day, I was chatting with a friend who recently got divorced. She asked me to review her newly created online dating profile and give her some feedback. After looking over her profile, I provided some advice on how to make it much more appealing. This inspired me to create a checklist of what superstar online dating profiles should include, specifically focusing on photos.

This post is all about what your photos should show. In my next post, I’ll cover the kind of content (do I sound like a geek?!?) that should be in your description!

Photos Should Show:

You Smiling
- Flash a full-on smile—show us your teeth! A genuine smile is inviting and can make you look more approachable and friendly. If you’re not happy with your smile, consider getting your teeth done. But remember, confidence is key.
Your Eyes
- Don’t hide your eyes behind sunglasses or with faraway shots. We want to see into your soul! Eyes can convey a lot about your personality and emotions, so make sure they’re visible.
YOU!
- We don’t really care about seeing pictures of your animals, house, cars, boats, etc., unless YOU are in them too! Make sure the focus is on you, and if you want to include other elements, do it in a way that highlights your lifestyle and interests.
Recent Pictures
- Use recent photos, no more than two years old. You don’t want to mislead someone who is interested in you by using outdated photos. It’s important to represent yourself accurately to avoid surprises on your first meeting.
You Doing Something You Enjoy
- Show yourself engaging in activities you love, like skiing, dancing, or basket weaving. Get a friend to take a picture of you in action. This not only makes for interesting photos but also gives potential matches insight into your hobbies and passions. Just avoid the classic bathroom mirror selfies.
Keep It Classy, Men!
- MEN, keep your clothes on! If you’re out swimming or playing in the water, sure, that’s fine. But please, no poser shots of you in the mirror with your shirts off. It can come across as vain and off-putting. Double Ack!
Multiple Photos
- Have more than one photo—otherwise, you might seem like a “fake” person from the other side of the globe trying to scam people. At least three photos are ideal to provide a well-rounded view of who you are. This makes you appear more genuine and trustworthy.

Following these guidelines can help create a more appealing and genuine online dating profile. Remember, your photos are often the first impression potential matches will have of you, so make them count!