The math behind the profile pic
Does being photogenic have anything to do with the profile pics people post? I mean, if you think you are not photogenic, you make more classic mistakes while posing or planning?
How often have you seen someone hiding behind a hand, or only showing an eye in a close-up, or with their head tilted, or, or, or…
Does it have to do with lack of self-confidence when one does not use a great picture?
As one might suspect it IS important to have a great picture – but as far as the studies go, it has nothing to do with being more or less photogenic.
This article that I came across sums up studies on how one is perceived, according to their pic.
There is quite the science behind it, but rest assured – if you follow these simple guidelines, you have nothing to worry about.
I’ve taken the following excerpt direct from his original article.
I also suggest going to the following web site: https://www.photofeeler.com/
It grades how others see you in these three profiles:
- business (competent, likeable, influential)
- social (confident, authentic, fun)
- dating (smart, trustworthy, attractive)
Here is an overview of all the best practices for coming up with the best profile picture on social media:
- Smile with teeth
- Dark coloured suits, light coloured button-downs
- Jawline with a shadow
- Head-and-shoulders, or head to waist photo
- Squinch (not fully wide eyes)
- Asymmetrical composition
- Unobstructed eyes
Worth trying out:
• Facing the camera (or not)
• Bright background
And things to avoid:
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Hair, glare and shadows over the eyes
• Laughing smile
• sexiness
Suggested homework:
- Do you think the photograph included is appropriate for a CV?
- Why or why not?
- Try uploading and running the test for yourself, comment on your thoughts and reactions?
