Swipe right! Tips for getting stand-out photos for dating apps!
Dating app photos. What you need to know!
As both a photographer and someone who has navigated the dating market in major cities including New York, London and Miami, I have swiped on hundreds (thousands?!) of photos!
And without a doubt, the vast majority of people are selling themselves short and could use major help up-leveling their photos in their quest for love!
You don’t have to be the hottest, youngest or most stylish. Honestly, just having clean, clear and high-end photos will immediately set you apart!
Here are my favorite tips if you’re out navigating the dating world - or are a photographer helping clients get the best possible images!
the must have photos:
Your main image should be a headshot with a warm, friendly smile. Look approachable!
You’ll need a variety of photos. Most sites require at least 6.
The swipe-stopping headshot
Your main photo should be a clean and clear headshot looking straight into the camera preferably with a warm smile!
A full body shot
Preferably two. Make sure they accurately represent how you currently look .
A lifestyle shot
A photograph that gives us something personal.
A conversation starter
I’m a big fan of a photo that is a conversation starter, example you with your pet or in a unique location.
more tips:
Use natural light.
No overly formal, studio shots or photos that look like they belong on LinkedIn.
It’s a good idea to have your hair and makeup professionally done but in a natural way to represents the best version of you! At the least, get a great blow-out at a dry bar!
Look friendly and approachable.
Studies show that the color red really grabs attention! I personally love white and it’s worked well for me.
Have a variety of looks. Casual with jeans and something that’s a bit more dressy.
Use the “caption” option on the apps to give some context to the photo and let people know WHEN it was taken! 👉🏼
Pay attention to the background and location. It says a lot about who you are and what kind of lifestyle you live. That means no bathroom selfies!
Heading out to dinner in the West Village, July 2021
what not to do:
Don’t misrepresent yourself. That means photos that are too old, too edited or don’t accurately show what you currently look like.
No group shots or photos of you with other people!
No overly-edited selfies.
No sunglasses or hats that cast a shadow or don’t show your eyes.
No photos of with your ex cut out of the picture!
On the topic of ex’s, it’s also a good idea not to use a photo that your ex took of you or was taken while you were away together. I had an ex use photos that I took on a very special day we celebrated together and it was extremely painful to see when I came across them online. I don’t care how fabulous you look, it’s just not good energy! Be kind and respectful by starting fresh!
Ladies,
Men prefer photos that are friendly with a warm smile!
They don’t love overly edited selfies, anything that looks too intimidating and definitely no snapchat filters or duckfaces!
If you’re looking to attract a high-quality man, don’t use anything too overtly sexy! It’s ok to look HOT (men are, of course, visual creatures) but you shouldn’t lead with your sexuality!
Please have at least one full body shot (preferably 2) that accurately represent your current weight. I believe that we judge ourselves far more harshly than men! But they also don’t want to be cat-fished.
Make sure your photos are recent and are actually OF you! You may think this is obvious however, I have personally met a man who used a photo of someone else and a male friend once met a lady who used her daughter’s image! 🤦🏻♀️
Guys,
Make sure you are properly groomed before you take photos! So many men lately look like they are in desperate need of a haircut or shave.
I personally love a man with some facial hair but it should look intentional and not like you’ve given up on life!
I’m NOT a fan of tank-tops for men UNLESS it’s a shot of you running in a marathon or race where it makes sense and is giving some insight into your life.
No shirtless gym or bathroom selfies! Just no. Full stop.
As a matter of fact no photos taken in the bathroom, gym or car at all!
First impressions matter and most people spend less than a second deciding if they will swipe right or left! Since I’ve up-leveled my photographs, the quality of men of I attract and how they show up to our dates has significantly improved! I’ve had several men tell me that they felt like they needed to up their game before they met me and I am here for that!
I’d love to know, what would YOU add to this list? Let me know in the comments below!
Testimonials
“Heidi is the most amazing photographer.
I’ve never had a good photograph taken of me in my life. When I received Heidi’s proofs I was so happy I didn’t know which ones to choose! A photoshoot with Heidi is the best gift you will ever give yourself.”
“She is awesome. Really knows what she is doing. Very professional, creative, and smart. Knows how to make you shine.”
“She makes you feel so comfortable and cared for! Even if you feel awkward in front of the camera she will having you laughing during your entire shoot and you’ll get the most natural photos!”