Time to post your photos! Take some time with this because people do make snap judgments based on your pictures. Remember the two rules of profile creation:

• Don't lie.
• Seriously, don't lie.

Post updated, clear, honest, clean photos of yourself. Put your best foot forward. Don't post photos from 7 years ago (unless you look exactly the same) and don't only post photos where you look 10lbs lighter or, you know, those photos where someone says “Hey, you look really good there!” The bulk of your pictures should be natural, clear and look like you – flaws and all!

(I say flaws and all because I happen to be a sucker for big noses. Some guy might try to hide this. I love a smoochable nose!)

No Photo Profiles

Every profile NEEDS photos. In fact, if you don't have photos up, I am going to reject you flat out. Why? Let me explain the question running through my brain:

• How come none of your friends, family members or coworkers have a camera to snap a picture of you?
• How come you don't know how to upload a photo?
• What are you trying to hide?
• Could you be a scam artist?
• How do I know if you are who you say you are?

So many unknowns. Also, I have a feeling you might be gross looking. I have actually waited a couple days to see if maybe a photo was being approved and would appear. They never do. This lack of photo makes me uncomfortable and I don't want to be uncomfortable.

I have been contacted by guys without photos who have said that because of where they work, they cannot post a photo of themselves. I don't know how true this is. That would also mean if I took a picture of you because we were at the same party and posted it, you'd get fired? I'm sure certain companies have rules, but, then you should probably be using a matchmaking service, not online dating.

I also had a fellow in law enforcement contact me and say he couldn't have a picture up because of work. I assume because. . .maybe criminals are on Match and will notice he is an uncover agent? How does he know I'm not a criminal? IDK. He did email me some pictures. Ultimately, he looked a little too old for me and now I feel uncomfortable because I'm not attracted to him and I don't know how to tell him that.

Yeah, women are picky. Mm-hmm.

I Want To See You

So, back to photo quality. It's good to have a couple standard shots. A headshot – that means a nice close up of your face. Not a photo you cropped down where I can't tell what color your eyes are. A nice head shot is great.

I want to see your build for two reasons – one, I want to see if you said you are “athetic and toned” yet you have a beer gut. This means you are a liar. You don't actually have to be “athletic and toned” to be cute. You can have a couple extra pounds and be adorable. Two: I want to see what I am getting into here. It makes me comfortable knowing you have put yourself out there confidently.

Photos do more than show me you, by the way. They show me what you do. Vary them. Don't have every picture at a bar with a beer in your hand. Don't have everyone be you standing next to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Don't have every one be you camping. Work on a nice selection or you will seem one dimensional and sad.

Don't Do This

Originally, I was going to copy out photos that sucked of guys. (Sorry, not into girls). Rather, for this part of my post, I am going to show you what not to do in profile pictures and why. I like visuals. So, here we go!

Rule 1: Avoid Outdated Shots

Make sure your photos are recent. So what if you don't have as much hair, or you put on some weight. There is no reason to have pictures from you in college or high school on your profile. We live in the now. Having a picture that does not look like you is the equivalent of lying. And, we do remember the rules, right?

I'm a working professional looking for my special someone!

Rule 2: Always Remember to Smile

Always smile. You don't have to have a huge grin in ever picture, but, damn. Smile! I have come across profiles where the guy never smiles. Ok, ok, I get it. You're tough as nails. You are a no-nonsense guy. I happen to be somewhat soft and full of nonsense. This isn't going to work out. Plus, maybe you don't have any teeth. 

I am a passionate person who lives life to the fullest!

Rule 3: Avoid Hiding Your Face

Do you want to date this? No. I didn't think so. Take off your sunglasses, take off your hat.

I'm just a fun-lovin' gal or guy looking for my prince or princess.

 

Rule 4: No Bathroom Shots

Stop taking pictures of you with your camera in the mirror. It's weird. You aren't even looking at me. And your mirror is dirty. Also, if you can't use the timer on your camera, or have a friend take a photo, you are not going to be able to keep up with me. 

I like walks on the beach and flossing really close to my mirror.

Rule 5: Keep Your Shirt On

Don't show me your chest/abs in your profile pictures. Really. It's weird. I'm glad you are proud of your body, really, but, it seems to say “this is all I got going for me.” Great, you have a six pack. I don't. You probably want a more attractive girl than me. I'm moving on. 

 I like visiting exotic places and not making my bed.

The only possible exception to this if you are actually in the water doing something – jet skis, surfing a huge wave – but the focus would have to be on your skills, not your nudity.

Rule 6: Limit the Group Shots

Don't be in a crowd. I don't know who you are. And if you are with people who look like you, I don't know who you are at all. Are you the cute one? The one getting married? The drunk one? Wait - do you have a baby?

My friends describe me as lost in the crowd.

It's ok to have one or two shots of you and your friends, make it clear who you are though.

Rule 7: Limit the Hot Opposite Sex Shots

Don't have pictures where you are surrounded by hot co-eds. I don't want to date a slut. If you can get all these hot people around you, I don't have a chance because I don't think I am that hot. I also am not going to fight all those models for you. I mean, by the way, is that your ex?

 He's just a friend. I'm not a slut! I like Jesus and helping orphans.

 

If you happen to have a hot sibling, clearly say, “This is me and my uber-hot sibling.” Then I only feel slightly uncomfortable. At least, I can tell myself, it's cool you are good friends with your family. Hmm, maybe I will message you after all. 

Rule 8: Avoid Animal/Nature/Structure Shots

Sure, a picture of your pet is nice because it shows you are an animal lover. Maybe try to get a picture of you AND your pet. But, if you have three photos of your cat and two of a sunset - I mean, what? I don't want to date your cat or the sun. So, be careful about these photos. 

My cat wants to rip your face off.

Final Thoughts 

Remember, the more honest you are at the beginning the better chance you have of finding quality people who are truly interested and attracted to you. If you post pictures and state things just to get a response, you'll get a response, but you'll be frustrated when these people back off quick because they feel like you lied.

Happy posting! Keep it real out there!