Over the years, I’ve heard guy friends and acquaintances on dating apps express several times that they don’t understand why they’re not meeting a quality woman for a long-term relationship.
It could only take seconds for a woman to decide which way to swipe, so choosing the right pictures is important. Some single men could be the best but don’t post photos that show them in the best light. Considering how often I’ve seen certain types of pictures and how frequently I hear other women say they’re seeing the same, it’s a common occurrence.
Guys, you can obviously post whatever pictures make you happy. However, the photos might be (part of) the issue if you’re looking for a long-term relationship on a dating app and wondering why you’re not connecting with quality women. If you post any of the following photos on dating apps, you might want to consider switching things up to see if you get different results.
Middle Finger Pictures
I don’t know any woman who responds positively to this.
Sunglasses in Every Picture
How is a woman supposed to see what your face looks like if you’re wearing sunglasses in every photo? Also, why are you taking pictures indoors while wearing sunglasses?
Looking Down
A photo shouldn’t involve looking up your nose as you stare down at the camera. It’s not a flattering angle.
Cigarette Pictures
A picture with a cigarette hanging out of your mouth isn’t complimentary.
Mirror Selfies
One mirror selfie isn’t (usually) a big deal, but it shouldn’t be every single image. We get it; you like going to the gym. Also, please clean your mirror.
Shirtless Photos
It’s one thing if you’re at the beach or pool and someone takes a picture of you. It makes sense.
However, it can be a red flag when practically every picture of you is of you shirtless, especially when you’re intentionally trying to look sexy, such as posting a photo of you being in bed or you’re taking a picture of your reflection in a car window. It’s giving arrogant and/or casual hookup vibes.
Close-Up Underwear Pictures
You can’t expect a woman to take you seriously that you want a long-term relationship if you’re posting pictures just showing a close-up of you wearing your boxer briefs.
Duck Face Pictures
This doesn’t make your lips look better.
Multiple Males
How is a woman supposed to know which one you are if every photo is you and one or more other guys, and there’s no explanation of who you are?
Old Photos
Please don’t post photos from a decade ago and pass them off as recent photos.
Holding Up a Fish
I’m not sure who started this “trend” of posting photos holding up a fish, but it often elicits many eye rolls and left swipes from women. It’s great that you love fishing, but maybe skip posting dead animals in your dating profile.
Another Woman
It’s one thing if you post a picture of you with another woman and offer an explanation of her being your sister, cousin, etc. However, posting no explanation often makes a woman think you’re looking for a third or that she’s an ex.
Glaring
You’re coming off as scary and not sexy.
So What Dating Photos Should I Post?
Your first photo should be the best picture you have of yourself. It should clearly show your entire face, be well-lit, have you looking neat and presentable, and preferably be of you smiling. As far as the other photos, show off your adorable pet! Ask a friend to take a full-body picture if you don’t already have one. Show off something you’re interested in, such as riding your motorcycle, golfing, playing basketball, or playing with your pet.
Finding good photos to post can feel intimidating, but don’t stress so much. When you’re trying to find a long-term relationship on a dating app, just be yourself and be intentional with the pictures you post. If you have a female friend or family member you can trust, ask them for advice. Don’t be afraid to switch things up and see which photos work best for you.
And once your profile is ready, choosing the right platform matters just as much as the photos you post. Before committing to one, it’s worth doing your research – read this Meetheage review to see if it’s the right fit for what you’re looking for.
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This post was previously published on medium.com.
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Photo credit: Cathal Mac an Bheatha on Unsplash
