Don't skip the profile picture. A few people have a good reason to avoid having a picture--local celebrities, mental health workers, etc., but for the most part a profile picture is indispensable. Many potential matches won't even look at the rest of the profile without a picture.
Depending on what kind of device CM members have, your profile picture might be as small as a thumbnail, but there's a lot of information packed in that small space.
The first thing to think about when looking at a potential profile picture is...can someone even tell what sex you are with a quick glance at a thumbnail-sized picture? I know, potential matches should know whether you're a man or woman because they ran a report for men or women. But you would be surprised at how many CM users are using a picture for their profiles that looks a little ambiguous. Women: Is your picture a full front view of the face with your hair pulled into a tight ponytail or closely cropped, showing a T-shirt type collar or Oxford collar? If so, you might not be projecting femininity. Consider loosening the ponytail or setting some tendrils free, using a slightly oblique or 3/4 view, and wearing a feminine-looking top. Men: Do you have longish hair and ambiguous clothing? Consider any changes that may be needed to project masculinity in a quick look at your picture.
If you took your profile picture with a webcam you might have unintentionally produced a slight foreshortening effect which can make your nose or chin look larger than it actually is. Consider taking a selfie with a cellphone slightly above your head, or use a selfie stick. Better yet, have a friend take a flattering picture or crop a picture of yourself being natural and having fun.
Next, the background of your profile picture. The bathroom is not the ideal spot. If you must take a picture of yourself in the bathroom, at least make sure the toilet is out of the picture! If you take a picture of yourself in the bedroom, make sure the open door to your bathroom isn't in the background.
For some reason the car is another popular selfie locale, but I don't recommend it. The light coming in through the car windows is likely to cause squinting.
For some reason the car is another popular selfie locale, but I don't recommend it. The light coming in through the car windows is likely to cause squinting.
Finally, remember that this is not a mug shot. Look friendly! A smile showing teeth is recommended but if you're not comfortable with that then at least look pleasant.
Your profile picture might be the first time your future spouse sees your face...so make it a good one!
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