A Picture Speaks a Thousand Words
There is so much a profile photo should say about you, qualities that sometimes only a professional photographer will know how to capture. A well taken photo will convey your character and style, complementing your profile and making a positive first impression.
Maclynn’s experts see the patterns of what makes a ‘good’ photo. Here are our top tips…
1) Smile!
Smiling in photos makes you look friendly, warm and approachable. We have had so many people reject strong potential matches based on non-smiley photos.
2) FIND YOUR ANGLE
Every face is different. Try to work out if you look better straight on, or whether you might want to turn a few degrees to the side. If you are struggling with this, the input of a professional photographer is simply invaluable.
3) LIGHTING
Natural and warm is best – so either take photos outside, or, if you’re indoors, try to find a spot near the window. Look out for odd shadows in your face, try and keep your face free of them.
4) HAIR & MAKEUP
Ensure that your hair is styled well. Ladies – ideally get a blow-dry, as this instantly elevates your look. Go for a light, natural-looking makeup. Gents – whether or not you sport facial hair, make sure you are nicely groomed.
5) OUTFIT
You should be dressed in an outfit that flatters your body and makes you feel confident, as this will give you an overall sexier vibe. Avoid over-sized coats or jackets, as they will make you appear bigger. Additionally, be cautious with noisy patterns, as well as power suits that you might wear in the boardroom – you’re here to convey your friendliness, not your authority! Think of conveying your ‘social relaxed self’, what you would normally wear when you feel comfortable yet confident, and good about yourself. Ladies, a good pair of heels can elongate your legs superbly.
6) YOU ARE THE FOCUS & BE IN FOCUS
Your photo should showcase you and no-one else. Save photos of your pets, hot friends and family members for social media. Also, consider finding a simple, unfussy background – you don’t want any distractions. While you may have found the perfect picture of yourself, if it is not in focus, it may give off the impression that you are not serious about the dating process.
7) RELAX
The most effective photo shoots are those in which the subject appears candid, almost as if unaware they are being photographed. Take a friend along to talk and laugh with – relax, and have fun with it!
8) NO DISGUISES!
You might be amazed how often people think a hat – or worse, sunglasses – makes them appear mysterious. In actual fact, you’ll only look like you have something to hide – so keep it real and show your face with pride!
9) AVOID FUNNY PHOTOS
Even if you think they reflect your playful side, some may misinterpret the tone of your pictures if you include ones in which you are in fancy dress or up to drunken shenanigans. You don’t want people to make incorrect assumptions about you.
10) WHATSAPP!
Your WhatsApp picture must also adhere to all of the above. We have had many a date fall through at the last minute because, upon exchanging numbers, a client was put off by an ill-advised profile picture.
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Once you have got the hang of these guidelines, they will undoubtedly start to come naturally to you. You should not use photos to rule out someone you are sure you will have no physical connection with. If it’s not a no, then you should consider meeting them – and then reassess.
JENNIFER VERNE
Jennie is a portrait and lifestyle photographer based in Manhattan. Originally from France, Jennie worked as an account executive in the advertising industry before moving to New York City in 2010. After years of extensive training, she launched her own photography business. With a keen eye for everything fashion, Jennie focuses on establishing trust with her clients to capture beautiful imagery. Her style of photography is greatly influenced by fashion editorials and her passion for creating visual narratives. Jennie’s resume includes shooting runway and backstage at New York and Paris Fashion Weeks for world-renowned brands, as well as photographing portraits in studio and on location all over the city. Jennie’s portfolio can be seen on her Instagram account. (@JenniePhotoNYC)
Special offer to Maclynn members
$300
Includes: 1-hour full lifestyle portrait shoot. Online delivery of up to 20 edited photos with 3 retouched ones. 2-3 business days turnaround. Outfit change recommended for a broader variety of shots. Option to select your desired images to be retouched.
*Terms and conditions apply. Additional packages available upon request.
