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Anna Seabourne 💙

1y ago

Helping introverts to Small Talk Smarter since 1996.

5 Must-Haves for a Profile Picture That's Firing on All Cylinders

In today's digital world, first impressions are made long before you enter the room.

Whether it's social media, your company website or a conference roster, a compelling photo can significantly influence others' willingness to invest time, energy, or money in you.

Here's how to make sure your profile picture works wonders:

  1. Eye contact Forget your sunglasses and baseball caps. People need to see your eyes to build trust. Look directly into the camera.

  2. Smile Genuinely Relax and smile as if you're in agreement with someone. A slight squint adds sincerity to your smile.

  3. Fill the frame Crop the photo to show your head and shoulders. Avoid looking like a pinhead positioned in the centre of the frame.

  4. Be well lit Shadows on the face will make you look suspicious. Take your picture in front of a window or in a well-lit spot. 

  5. Colour Stand out from the tiles of blue, grey, and black with a flash of colour. Opt for a colourful background, or wear something colourful, but not both.

PRO TIP: Use corded earphones as a remote shutter if taking photos with your phone. It avoids constant resetting.

These tweaks will ensure your profile picture leaves a lasting, positive impression!

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