We’re not so superficial as to say that looks is everything, but we are human. Thus, we know that when looking at profiles on dating sites, people scope out the pictures first. Beauty and attraction are a matter of taste, but you can still upgrade your online dating profile by choosing the best picture of yourself to attach to it.

Online Dating Profile Picture Tips

1. Choose a photo that YOU like: you should feel comfortable and happy with the photos that represent you on dating sites. Don’t choose a picture just because you think others might like it.
2. Clear and focused: this might sound obvious, but for some reason, too many people choose blurry, dark images, in which you can hardly recognize any details. Unfocused pictures aren’t artistic – they are just poor quality.
3. Take a picture of yourself doing one of your favorite activities: If you have a hobby, get someone to take your picture while you are engaged in it. It will almost always present you in a positive light, because you tend to look happy and active while doing something you love.
4. Just you: most of the pictures in dating sites profiles should be of you – and just you. Especially avoid pictures with your Ex or any other member of the opposite sex. Pictures with other people deleted or blackened to hide them aren’t very impressive either.
5. Color it: color images are better than black and white. We have the technology, so use it!
6. Don’t take it yourself: if possible, ask a friend to take your picture for you. Self-taken pictures look exactly like that – with odd angles that rarely flatter you.
7. No nudity: some people think it’s attractive to post nude or semi-nude pictures in online dating sites. First of all, most sites will ban you or delete the image. Second, it doesn’t make a good impression. Put decent pictures, and take your clothes off when the right time comes.

First dates can be really unnerving. You are not only meeting a new person, but you probably want to make a great impression. Nowadays, a lot of first dates happen after an online chat in a dating site, so you DO have some information and impressions regarding the person that you are meeting. Still, online photos in a dating site aren’t enough, and making the first date a good one, is rather important.

Here are few tips for first dates – some are for men, some for women and some are for both.Remember: take it easy and have fun. After all, it’s just a date.

First Date Tips

1. Be confident (but not overly so):  Women tend to enjoy confidence in a man, while there are many men who won’t like a coy woman. So, be a part of planning the date – decide together where to go and what to do, and don’t be afraid to voice your opinion.
2. Keep it simple: You’ll be nervous enough without making a big show. Choose a familiar venue, or do something that’s easy and enjoyable.
3. Don’t go to the movies: The dark scenery of a movie theater can be very romantic, but it’s not an ideal setting for a first date, in which you want to talk and get to know each other. Movies are good for later dates.
4. Easy on the perfume: Girls and boys – don’t overdo the Eau de Cologne! You don’t want your date to faint, right?
5. Brush your teeth: Go for a mouthwash, too. Better safe than sorry!
6. Don’t give them the 3rd degree: Keep the conversation light and amusing! Avoid talking or asking about old boyfriends, girlfriends or any other Exes. This is a first date, not a criminal investigation.
7. Go for comfortable clothing: We are not suggesting that you wear dirty jeans and a torn t-shirt, but you should wear comfortable clothes. First dates are tense enough, you don’t need the extra pressure of a tight dress or too-new shoes.
8. Guys, pick up the tab; Girls, insist on going dutch: Someone will come out victorious at the end, but that’s the way it should be. Guys should suggest or insist on paying, girls should at least make a courteous move towards your purse.
9. Listen, don’t just talk: Yes, that goes for the both of you!
10. Turn your mobile phone off: Taking calls from your friends or reading texts is very rude and shows lack of interest. Only keep your phone switched on if you’re expecting a VERY important call.