What your photos say before you do

People spend about three seconds on a profile before deciding whether to keep reading. Photos carry that decision, so it's worth knowing what they're saying.

The first photo is the only one some people see

Make it a clear face, well lit, no sunglasses, no group. Not because mystery is bad, but because a photo where nobody can tell which person is you gets skipped without a thought.

Show your life, not your possessions

A photo of you doing something — cooking, climbing, playing, standing somewhere you love — gives the other person a question to ask. A photo of your car gives them nothing to say.

One group photo, maximum, and not first

Group photos work as social proof and against recognition. Use one, put it third or later, and be the obvious subject in it.

Recent beats flattering

Photos from five years ago set up a first date that starts with disappointment. The best photo is one where you look like you will look when you walk in.

Six is plenty

After six, people stop looking. A tight set of six good ones beats nine with three weak ones — the weak ones are what gets remembered.