There is a lot of talk about posting the right photos on your online profile and for good reason because a bad photo will ruin your chances of making an online connection. Be sure that the photos you post do not portray some kind of characteristic that is a turn off to the person you are trying to attract. Here are seven key elements to consider when choosing your photos.



Element One, Be Unique: First and foremost choose a picture that sets you apart. Look at other profiles and take note of what you see. If everyone else is at the baseball game or in someone's backyard drinking a beer, then you shouldn't be. Instead try something fun that brings out your personality. For example, you could post a photo of you against a bright blue wall holding a sign that says "Will you go on a date with me?"

Element Two, Be Repetitive: Choose pictures that correspond with your profile. If the focus of your "About Me" section is on your travels to Europe, then include a photo or two of you in Spain. A little bit of repetition will make you more memorable.

Be An Editor, Element Three: Download and use free graphic editing software to edit your photos, there is plenty out there for you. Do not be afraid to edit photos. I am suggesting you should crop the photo so you and only you are the focus. I'm not saying you should make yourself look different than you are. Feel free to brighten up the color and contrast and get rid of that red eye and big pimple so that your wonderful features are highlighted.

Element Four, Be Dressed: Put your shirt on. It is most people's preference to date someone that they can eventually bring home to mom and dad. If you portray yourself as a sex-god you reduce the number of possibilities. Of course your great body is a worthy marketing tool but make it known without being too over the top.

Element Five, Be Alone: Leave kids and pets out of it. Yes it's true that a lot of people are impressed by the sensitive side, but after you've seen four or five profiles that include pics with a niece or puppy it becomes transparent that it is a ploy.

Be Happy, Element Six: Your eyes and smile should be present. Take off your shades; we want to know what your face will look like looking back at us. Post at least one picture that shows all of your happy face.

Element Seven, Create Variety: Make sure to have more than one photo if the site allows it so we can not just see what you look like, but see what you look like doing the things you love.