Step-by-Step Online Dating Guide

Are Online Dating Services for You? Does it Work? Get Photos Create Your Profile Anonymous Email Safety Choosing an Online Dating Service Finding Your Match Making Online Contact Making Real-World Contact Enjoy Yourself

Get Photos

Even if the site you eventually choose does not require a photo, it is still a necessity. As people look through profiles, the first thing that catches their eye is the photo. Take the time and effort this important part of your profile deserves because a bad photo may cause people to ignore the rest of your profile.

The good news is that this is also one of the quickest and easiest things to change if you don't like the results you're getting. Keep this in mind. If you aren't getting the results you want, change your photo first.

That said, get yourself several pictures to choose from.

Have a friend take pictures. These will look more natural, but watch the quality. Make sure there's enough light so that a flash is not necessary. Also avoid direct sun - it's too harsh.

Pay a visit to a professional photographer. Be sure to tell him that you want the photos to appear natural. Glamour shots are not the best choice - people will see them for what they are and wonder what you "really" look like.

Go through some of your existing photos. Do you have a favorite?

Remember to smile!

Things to stay away from:

• Passport photos (unless you've lucked out and it really is a good photo).



• A photo that is too sexy, especially if you're female. This is the first impression you will make; don't make promises you're not going to keep. Ignore this if you are using a sex or swinger site.



• An outdated picture.



• A crappy photo. It will give people the impression that you don't even have the time or care to go to a local photographer and get it done right. This screams loser.



• Please don't cut your ex out from a photo of the two of you. Tacky!

Again, a good photo is crucial to your online dating success. If you make the first move and email someone who you think would be a good match for you, what do you think is the first thing they will want to see? Your photo! If it's not there, they may not even reply to your message.