We asked a relationship expert for some sage advice
BY SOFIE ROOS, IMAGE BY MIMAGEPHOTOGRAPHY VIA CANVA
The world of modern dating can be lots of fun. For the more indesisive of us, it can also be tricky to know how we should use dating apps to present ourselves to potential daters. Something that many daters can struggle with is knowing how to take photos for their dating profiles. So, if that’s you, I’ve come up with eight steps to help you along your way.
Use at least one picture that tells something about yourself
Whether it’s you doing a hobby you love or going somewhere you love, these types of pictures are a great way of representing aspects of your personality and interests in a way that a selfie won’t. Doing this will help attract the right sapphic to match your vibe.
Let your style shine through
Go for photos with your favourite outfits that represent your style — this is an awesome magnet for making the right people swipe on you!
Use images someone else has taken of you
Avoid the mirror selfies and other pictures you have taken yourself, and choose a good shot of you that someone else has taken – preferably in a situation where you weren’t aware, so it feels relaxed and natural! You will look better, and it will give others a better idea of how you look!
Smile, smile and smile
Smiling is correlated with being seen as more attractive, something this study published in 2025 found. With that said, choose at least some pictures with your beautiful smile in them.
Everyone is cool in sunglasses, but don’t overdo it
It’s totally cool to use some pictures with sunglasses in your dating profile, because hey, it makes us look badass. But don’t use too many pictures where your eyes aren’t shown, as your eyes will attract people, and some might choose not to swipe if they can’t see your whole face.
Don’t only use photos with others in them
Using some photos with friends and family in them sends good signals, but use photos of only you first to make it clear who you are.
Skip low-quality and old shots
Don’t use that photo from the holiday 10 years ago, that’s just dishonest. Make sure the images you pick are of great quality.
Vary the styles and angles
Lastly, try to go for different kinds of photos. Don’t only use black and white ones, use different angles, be in different environments and have different facial expressions. Variation gives a better and more accurate picture of what you look like, which makes it feel safer to swipe for most people.
Sofie Roos, is a licensed sexologist, relationship therapist and author at Swedish relationship and sex positive magazine Passionerad.
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