Anyone can take a photo of you. You can even use a tripod and make a DIY at-home photoshoot. But when it comes to specialized dating photos, there’s an art and a science to looking swipe-worthy– and a professional dating app photographer makes that magic happen.
When you choose your photo set on apps, you have 6 to 9 photo slots to communicate your vibe, which might seem like enough, but since we’re all strangers on the apps, every photo slot counts.
If you’ve come this far, chances are high that you’re ready to take the next step and hire a dating photographer. We love that! Let us help by making your decision easier. Here’s everything you need to know:
Specialization matters.
Only some photographers are equipped to take compelling dating profile photos. Portrait or headshot photographers often focus on artistic headshots or corporate-style images, which can feel stiff and overly polished. On the other hand, dating photographers know how to capture a natural yet irresistible version of you that feels authentic and approachable.
Think about it this way: you’re not aiming for “cute” or “professional.” You want to strike the perfect balance of innocently sexy—someone potential matches can’t wait to get to know– that’s what dating photographers do best.
Do you need a dating photographer or a boudoir photographer?
There are a few different photography niches that are similar to dating photography, but not the same. Check this rundown:
Boudoir Photography: Intimate, empowering photos that celebrate confidence and sensuality.
Portrait Photography: Artistic photos capturing emotion and acting.
Headshot Photography: Professional close-ups for resumes, profiles, or branding.
Dating Photography: Casual, attractive photos designed to boost dating profiles.
There’s a fine line between seductive and inappropriate when it comes to dating profile photos. While boudoir photographers specialize in capturing sensual images, their work might not always translate well to a majority of dating apps (outside of the sex-positive, kink apps like Feeld, etc).
Sexy photos don’t necessarily mean you’re only looking for hookups—long-term relationships can grow from short-term connections. However, the type of attention you attract with certain photos can vary significantly, especially for women. A dating photographer knows how to make you look confident, attractive, and desirable while avoiding photos that feel overly provocative for most dating apps. Every photo on your profile should serve a purpose.
What do men/women think when they’re swiping?
The truth is, women swipe differently when they’re looking for a hookup versus something more serious. Men with a lot of shirtless, sensual-type photos on their profile might be right-swiped for hookups and left-swiped for relationships. Maybe something serious will blossom out of the hookup, but it won’t be directly obvious that they’re interested in long-term commitment with such photos.
When men swipe, they’re mostly focused on the physical; is this a person I want to have sex with tonight, for awhile, for the rest of my life, or perhaps, not at all? It’s not as necessary to reel in the sexiness for female dating photos. However, women with overly sexual photos could be subconsciously placed in the hookup bucket. Whereas, women with less skin showing might get more benefit of the doubt, being placed in a hookup or date bucket after the first meetup.
Ultimately, whether you’re seeking hookups or a relationship, the vibe you project with your photos matters. Lean on Photofeeler to give you this intel. Our dating photo test rates for Smart, Trustworthy, and Attractive trait factors to help you better understand what vibe your photo sends to strangers (aka your matches).
Here’s a quick insight: Serious, seductive male photos tend to be paired with low Trustworthy scores– which is a big indicator of how easy it will be to get on a first date. Now, not all your photos need to have all 32 of your bright whites shining away, but a mix of emotions is key. If you don’t look super trustworthy in your thirst trap photo, but most people will trust you to sell them a used car in the next pic– you’re probably fine.
Learn more about Trustworthy photo scores, why it matters, and how it makes or breaks your dating experience here.
How much does dating photography cost?
Professional dating photography is an investment—and for good reason. These photographers don’t just snap pictures; they guide you through a comprehensive process designed to deliver incredible results.
Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
Session Fees: These typically start at around $500 and may include a consultation, a warm-up call, and guidance on outfits and poses. While this might seem like an affordable entry point, keep in mind that session fees often don’t include the final photos.
Edited Photos: Photographers generally charge separately for the final images, which are carefully curated and retouched. Pricing for these starts around $1500 for a set of 9+ photos. However, if you only need a few images, you may be able to lower costs by purchasing fewer shots.
Photoshoot prices vary by location. In the Midwest, you’ll generally find lower rates than in cities like NYC or LA, where there are also more options to explore. Use these as a general baseline:
$1500 = Budget-Friendly | $3000 = Typical Range | $4500+ = High-End
If a photographer asks for 50% upfront, this is standard practice. Always read reviews to ensure they’re reliable and don’t have a history of last-minute cancellations. And, like we previously stated, don’t assume a photoshoot is only $500 – that’s only the session fee. Photo packages are priced on top of that charge.
While these costs may seem high, consider the potential return on investment. High-quality photos can drastically improve your dating success and can even be reused for social media or professional purposes (as long as you have clothes on).
You don’t have to spend $5000 for great dating photos, but it’s worth investing in an experienced photographer who can guide you, bring out your personality, and craft a photoshoot that aligns with your goals. Shop around for options that fit your budget, but keep quality and experience in mind for the best results.
How to find the right dating photographer?
Look for photographers with a proven track record in dating photography. These photographers specialize in creating dating profiles and can provide a portfolio tailored to your needs. Read reviews, ask for their portfolio, and make sure their style aligns with yours.
They should have a website. Do not accept a portfolio of images not tied to their name publicly.
When you have your first consult with them, get the prices upfront if they’re not already listed. You don’t want to be surprised when your photos suddenly cost 3x more than expected. Here are four questions to ask every dating photographer:
- What is the baseline cost for this session, and what is included?
- Do you have experience with posing clients?
- Will I have complete ownership over my images?
- Will you use my images in your portfolio? (You have a right to refuse to share your photos publicly).
How do you prepare for a dating photoshoot?
The basics
Although we might sound like grandma saying this, drink water (lots of it), and get your rest.
A good night’s sleep + water = sexy, glowing dating photos.
Don’t do anything you don’t normally do the night before your photos. Although trying a new face cream or shaving with a new razor may be tempting, it’s best not to irritate your skin before your session.
Include elements that feel like you
Outside of the basics, think about what you like. Are you into books? Cocktails? Painting? Communicate these interests to your photographer so they can curate a natural scene that feels like you. Where do you like to hang out? That’s an excellent spot to snap a few photos.
Wear what makes you feel like a million bucks, and bring a few options. A professional dating photographer should give you input on what outfits make you look your best. Pack a comb/brush, toothbrush, and concealer that matches your skin tone (The concealer goes for women and men; you’ll thank me later.)
Is hiring a dating photographer worth it?
The short answer is yes.
The long answer is that, yes, it might seem like a lot of effort and money to spend on dating photos. After all, shouldn’t you just be yourself? The truth is, you might not be showcasing yourself as well as you think. Putting in the effort to create standout photos isn’t silly or shallow—it’s a strategic way to show off your best qualities. Plus, dating photographers are skilled in making you look the most f***able in the most innocently, “oops, you caught me being naturally sexy” way possible.
In today’s competitive dating world, investing in professional photos can make you stand out in ways that matter. If this effort leads to the right person swiping right on you, going on a date, and possibly building a lasting connection; it more than pays for itself.
Once you’ve got those stunning shots, upload them to Photofeeler to get unbiased feedback on how you come across. It’s the ultimate way to pick your best photos for the apps before hitting “upload” on your dating profile.
Well done for treating yourself to photos of yourself looking your best—you deserve to have that captured to share. With the right effort and tools like Photofeeler, you’ll be turning heads (and swipes) in no time!