For both men and women, having a profile photo that is eye catching, fun and expresses who you truly are, is a must – especially when looking for that special someone. First impressions are everything! So what does your first impression say? Your main profile photo is the one thing that will instantly attract somebody, getting them to click on your profile and discover more about you. Throw the “hot or not” method out the window and let’s take a deeper look at your profile photo. How will you express your best self while also attracting the exact kind of romantic connection you are looking for?   Let’s break the art of a more attractive profile photo down to the details.

1. Know Your Purpose

It’s important to consider exactly why you are on JDate in the first place. Yes, it is to meet somebody. But really it should be more than that. Who are you really looking for? Who do you really want to date? It’s different for everyone.

Who you want to date in the future should be a guide as to what kind of message you want to convey with your photo. Looking for someone creative who enjoys art and music? Post a photo of yourself in an art studio, museum, or at an outdoor concert. Looking for somebody family oriented? Show a photo of yourself with your adorable nieces. Looking for somebody more conservative and corporate? Use a photo of yourself in a traditional-looking headshot or holding a glass of wine in a special restaurant.

2. In the Threads

What you wear in your photo is also an important factor. Your outfit choice will convey subliminal messages.

For guys: Think about the differences between wearing a hip, casual shirt or a t-shirt versus a button-down. A casual shirt can feel more relaxed and approachable, while a button-down shirt can feel more serious – especially when buttoned all the way to the top. You may choose to wear a button-down, but cuff up your sleeves and open the neckline.

For girls: Wearing something overtly sexy and formfitting can project the image of being more frivolous and less serious. Instead, consider wearing something that is layered, stylish and casual.

3. Show Your True Colors

Believe it or not, there is a subliminal message behind the colors you wear! Bright colors (such as lime green, orange, magenta, turquoise and yellow) convey fun, energy and warmth. Softer colors (like light pinks, baby blues and other pastels) convey a genteel factor or understated sweetness. Grays, browns, and navies convey a conservative personality type that plays by the rules. On the other hand, wearing contrast colors (like black and white together) can feel more authoritative and take charge! It’s amazing what color is able to convey. Choose colors that you feel present the true you and make you glow.

4. It’s All in the Eyes

It’s the eyes that will notoriously draw somebody in – whether it’s in person or in a photo. Showing your eyes in your main profile picture, and making direct eye-to-eye contact, is important when looking to connect with somebody. It’s too easy to choose a photo of yourself in action, or something with a slight blur, or your face at an angle (because you think it’s your better side), or even with sunglasses on. But really, that may be just hiding the real you! Remember, the eyes are the windows into the soul.

5. Wear Your Best Accessory

Confidence is the best accessory! It’s as simple as that. When you feel confident, your eyes brighten up, you smile wider and you radiate positive energy. That confidence and energy will shine through in your photos. Confidence is 100% sexy, attractive and eye catching.