“A picture is worth a thousand words,” and on dating apps, it might be worth a thousand swipes.

Your photos are your first impression, speaking volumes before you say “hello.” Each picture in your profile tells a story and sets a tone for how potential matches perceive you.

This article translates what each type of photo says to potential matches so you can be well-informed and intentional about which photos appear on your profile. If you’re curious about your current profile lineup, try a free Photofeeler dating photo test for more personalized feedback.

And on that note, let’s get into it.

#1. The Selfie

Ah, the dreaded selfie.

Look– selfies aren’t all bad, but if you’re going to put one on your profile, avoid mirror selfies.

Selfies can be great as close-up shots, but a profile full of them feels one-dimensional and sends the message that you don’t have friends to take and share your pictures with.

What People Think:

+ This person seems confident, casual, and approachable.
– This person seems self-absorbed.
– This photo doesn’t add any context to who this person is or what they like.
– This person didn’t care enough to put effort into their photos.

#2. The Hobby or Interest Photo

Your dating profile is your highlight reel– so what are your highlights? Show what you love in action. Don’t use blurry or vague shots that fail to show off what you’re doing.

What People Think:

+ This person is passionate, multi-dimensional, and active.
+ This person is interesting and engaging.
+ There is context to start a conversation.

#3. The Close-Up Face Photo

Skip the sunglasses and keep distractions (like hats or busy backgrounds) to a minimum. Aim for a clean, well-lit, natural close-up that shows your eyes and smile. Don’t over-edit or use heavy filters, or the photo won’t be as effective.

What People Think:

+ This person is making eye contact, so I feel more connected to them.
+ This person is transparent, confident, and personable.
+ This photo shows their features well without it being a selfie.

#4. The Full-Body Photo

For full-body shots, men and women pay attention to different things. Women focus on height and weight, whereas men focus more on body proportions.

While it’s ideal for this photo to be head to toe– ¾ body shots can also work.

What People Think:

+ This person feels comfortable in their skin.
+ They’re not hiding their body, which feels more transparent.
+ This photo provides some intel about their personal style.

Pro Tip: Not including at least one full-body photo on your dating profile will reduce your matches.

#5. The Social Life Photo

They’re beauty, they’re grace, they’re… s**tfaced?

When it comes to social photos, pull back any drunken stupor vibes and send out friendly, fun energy. Having a social shot shows you’re likable, have friends, and have a life outside swiping on the apps. However, you must be the focal point– not a taller, hotter friend. And the group shot should never be your main photo. It doesn’t matter if it’s just you and your bestie or you and the population of California– keep your first shot you-focused.

What People Think:

+ This person is likable, friendly, and outgoing.
+ This person enjoys spending time with others and could get along with my friends.
+ This person has friends who look like good company.
– This person (might) have friends who are hotter/taller than them.
– I can’t tell which person in the photo is them.

#6. The Travel Photo

Okay, so you pet an elephant… but where’s your face?

Too often the go-to travel pose is to blissfully stare into the distance (and tbh, we would too if we were in a beautiful, new place) but it just doesn’t help your profile unless we can see you and see where you’ve been.

What People Think:

+ This person is adventurous, open-minded, and cultured.
+ This person is interested in exploring the world and the outdoors.
+ This person would be fun to try new things and see new places with.
– I can only see the background, but I’m looking for a partner, not a travel destination.
– This person might be a lot to keep up with energetically and financially.

#7. The Pet Photo

Pet photos on dating apps are basically the ‘cheat code’ for cuteness—because who can swipe left on a dog with puppy eyes or a cat making its best loaf impression? Just make sure your pet isn’t the only one getting matches!

What People Think:

+ This person is responsible, caring, nurturing, and approachable.
+ This pet is so cute– I want to ask my match questions about them.
+ If this animal trusts them, there are good vibes there.
– (If no social photos) Are there humans that like this person too?

#8. The Sexy Photo

Depending on your intentions, you may want to ooze sex appeal or go full spouse vibes. If you’re after something serious, tone down the sexy until you connect on something real. It might be sending the wrong impression.

The general consensus is that women aren’t wild about shirtless photos unless they’re action or hobby shots. If the photo feels like the only intention is to send virtual bedroom eyes– it’s a no-go.

Including one subtly sexy photo on your profile can add appeal, but going overboard with overly provocative shots may shift perceptions, making it harder to be seen as relationship material. Balance is key.

What People Think:

+ This person is confident and sure of themselves.
+ This person has sex appeal.
– This person is more interested in FWB or hookups.
– This person sleeps around a lot.

#9. The Dressy/Full-Glam Shot

When you look your best and feel slick, take a shot for your profile.

The key word here is “a shot.” Oversaturating your profile with luxurious, full-dress attire photos could be a disservice and set the bar extremely high.

What People Think:

+ This person takes pride in their appearance and can put in effort for special occasions.
+ This person is classy, elegant, and versatile.
+ This person would be a fantastic wedding date. They clean up nicely!
– This high glam is high maintenance for an everyday vibe. Are they being authentic?
– This person may not be very approachable.

Expert Advice for a Winning Profile

“Skip overly sexy photos or ones you wouldn’t show your family. Focus on authenticity and highlighting what makes you unique.” – Julie Spira, Online Dating Expert

“Use Photofeeler to test your dating photos before you allow them a spot on your profile. It’s the best way to understand your online first impression and stand out to the matches the way you want.” – Photofeeler Team, Photofeeler

“Use photos that showcase your passions and lifestyle. Give people a glimpse into what it would be like to date you.” – Alex Williamson el-Effendi, Brand Expert at Bumble

Curate Your Perfect First Impression with Photofeeler

Whether it’s your cozy pet pic, an adventurous travel shot, or a dressed-to-the-nines stunner, every photo sets the tone for how people see you. The trick is curating a lineup that matches your personality and your goals.

But how can you be sure your photos are saying what you want?

A free Photofeeler dating photo test!

Get feedback from real humans, improve your dating profile, and receive more matches. No more guessing, no more wondering—we have your answers.

Test your lineup for free with Photofeeler and let your profile do the talking the right way.