When it comes to profile photos, you've likely noticed that guys do the same old things on Tinder (and Hinge, Grouper, Bumble, OkCupid, Match, Happn, Lulu, and so on). The clichés are endless: Too many guys riding elephants, holding puppies, and making a duck-face in their bathroom mirrors.
I'm not telling you anything you don't know because you've seen this all for yourself. I am here to report, however, on what you likely haven't seen: The photos women use that have become cliché on dating sites.
Unless you're into women, you likely haven't perused other women's profiles. But I have. So I figured I'd put my time spent swiping to good use. Here are the six types of photos I've seen as many times as you've seen a guy with a tiger, plus three other common images.
1. The fake mustache:
The first time I saw this I laughed. Clever! She's fun and playful! Then I saw it a second time. Third time. 119th time. You get the idea. There's nothing inherently wrong with this photo; Like most of these pictures, it's a good idea that's simply not as unique as you'd think.
2. Making a goofy face
This has a lot of variants, including the ever-popular sticking out the tongue and scrunching up the cheeks maneuvers. Whatever route you choose, I promise: It's been done. A much better way to show that you are fun (or funny) is to post a flattering photo of you smiling—or laughing. Trust me on this: It sends off better vibes and is less try-hard.
3. Jumping off a cliff into water
I can't really tell what you look like, but I agree, I suppose, that jumping is fun?
4. Riding a mechanical bull
Looks like a fun party. From the '90s. We know why you chose this picture—it shows you can be wild and free, and you're not afraid to have fun. But this particular good time is hardly subtle. What about showing off a deliberately retro pastime, like a jumpy castle, Skee-Ball, or Slip 'N Slide?
__5. Standing in front of the Colosseum
__
...Or Eiffel Tower. Or The Louvre. And most especially Machu Picchu. (In my experience, OKCupid users are bigon Machu Picchu.) Maybe pick a more road-less-traveled attraction, or that shot of you posing with a latte at a Paris coffee shop?
6. Wearing a sarcastic T-shirt
Why all of the snarky messages? Just as sarcasm can go horribly wrong in early text messages, keeping it out of your dating profile is a good move. Maybe save that shirt for the second date.
Finally, three less-than-honorable mentions:
—Sitting on a Game of Thrones throne
—Wearing a sailor's hat
—Holding a giant barbell over your head (Intimidating! Although, side note to the serious CrossFit girls: respect.)
