Contributed by: Jet on Friday, February 24 2012 @ 09:35 am
Last modified on
In the world of online dating profiles, we tend to separate the profile into two distinct sections: the self-summary, and the pictures. In the self-summary, we attempt to reflect the many nuanced layers of our personality, display our passion for our interests or our job, and state what we’re looking for in a partner, all while appearing interesting and warm - in a few concise paragraphs. When it comes to the pictures, however, we’re generally content with something that doesn’t give us more chins than we naturally possess. Well, perhaps we’re missing an opportunity here. Why not use the picture section to aid your narration?
Believe it or not, your picture section might already be telling a story - and maybe not the one you want to tell. If all of your photos are of you cuddled up to various and assorted people, in a bar or party setting, you might be coming off as more wild than you’d like. In contrast, if they’re all carefully posed headshots or taken in the mirror, then photoshopped within an inch of their lives, you might be giving off a vibe that you’re anything from painfully self-conscious to vain.
But when used to your advantage, the picture section of a profile can support your self-summary, or add depth to it. You might mention you love the outdoors and staying active, but a picture of you in mid-skydive really is worth a thousand words. Instead of trying to explain a funny costume you made for last year’s Halloween party, include a shot of it. If you’re promoting the fact that you’re close with friends and family, take some snapshots at the next gathering where you’re genuinely having a good time. Even if these photos aren’t at the most flattering angle or your eyes are closed, the candid, honest nature of them will more than make up for it.
With a few well-chosen photos, the reader will feel like they know you better than they otherwise might. The rewards can be exponential - they’ll then feel more comfortable when meeting in person, and perhaps the first date will begin even better than usual. So as you sit down to choose your photos, ask yourself: are you looking for the most flattering photo, or the one that best tells your story?