How to Make Online Dating Suck Less - Part One: Photos

Let's be real—pictures are everything on dating apps. They make up a whole, well 98%, reason for why women end up swiping right (or left) on your profile. The secret? Your pictures must give off personality and movement. Here's the rundown of how to curate that winning lineup:

1. The Profile Photo

Your first photo should represent what you’d look like on a date—dressy or casual, but polished. Aim for a chest-up shot, not a full-body one. And no selfies. Seriously, ask a friend to snap it for you—selfies rarely perform well.

2. The Candid Laugh

Add a candid photo of you laughing while looking slightly off to the side. If you're showing teeth, even better. Pro tip: If you can't fake a natural laugh, say "ha ha ha ha" quickly out loud, and voilà—your smile will widen effortlessly. Bonus points for whitening those teeth beforehand.

3. Action or Adventure Shot

Show your adventurous side, but keep the focus on you. Instead of standing stiffly in front of a landscape, go for a shot with movement. Hiking? Capture a mid-step moment. Surfing? Snap one holding your board as you head to the beach.

4. The Goofy Photo

Women love a man who lets loose. Include a fun picture from a costume party or festival or something that shows a silly side of you. Just avoid the group shots—no one wants to search for Waldo on dating apps.

5. Awwww Factor

Your softer side. A shot with your dog, cat, or even your grandma just works wonders. Women love seeing the more nurturing, caring side of men.

6. The Wildcard

This one is all about personality. Choose a photo that's a conversation starter—maybe from a unique trip or an interesting hobby. It should reflect something that makes you stand out.

Final Tips

• Use high-quality photos taken within the last couple of years.

• Adjust for lighting with free photo editing apps if needed.

• Put in the effort now, and you'll notice a major boost in the quality of your matches.

The bottom line? Thoughtfully curated photos = better matches = a way more enjoyable time swiping. Now get to it!

Jamie Date
Dating Coach for men
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