If your dating profile isn’t getting the matches you want, it’s not because love is dead—it’s because your photos are. Hinge (aka the dating app for people who claim to hate dating apps) has spoken, and they say your profile needs six key types of pictures to actually work.
So, if you’re still rocking that blurry 2018 group shot where you’re barely visible in the background, it’s time for an upgrade.
Here are the 6 dating pictures you need to get right:
1. The Headshot (Your Main Photo)
This is the face of your entire profile—literally. It’s the first thing people see before deciding if you’re worth their next thumb movement.
✅ Well-lit, clear, and actually looks like you.
✅ No sunglasses, hats, or weird shadows hiding your face.
🚫 No LinkedIn profile pics. You’re here to date, not apply for a job.
2. The Full Body Shot
Yes, people want to see your whole self, not just your carefully curated face angles. This isn’t about conforming to unrealistic standards—it’s about giving an honest preview of what they’ll see in real life.
✅ A recent, full-length photo of you standing, walking, or existing in the world.
✅ Bonus points if it shows your style (or at least proves you own more than one outfit).
🚫 No mirror selfies in a messy bedroom.
3. The Smiling Shot
Turns out, looking like you enjoy being alive makes you more attractive. Who knew?
✅ A genuine, natural smile that doesn’t look forced.
✅ Ideally, a candid moment where you’re laughing or having fun.
🚫 No half-hearted smirks that say, "I guess this will do."
4. The "Just You" Shot
No distractions. No friends. No cute dogs stealing your spotlight (though we love them). Just you, confidently existing.
✅ Solo photo where it’s clear who you are.
✅ Good lighting, good vibes, good everything.
🚫 No group shots where people have to play detective to figure out which one is you.
5. The Recent Shot (No Lies, No Catfishing)
If you look different from your pictures, it’s not a glow-up—it’s false advertising. Keep your photos updated so no one gets surprised on the first date (in a bad way).
✅ Taken within the last year.
✅ Actually represents how you look now.
🚫 No ancient photos where you cut out your ex-gf
6. The Candid Shot (AKA the "I Swear I’m Fun" Picture)
People want to see you in action, doing something you enjoy. This helps you seem like a real human and not just another person posing in front of a brick wall.
✅ You, engaged in an activity you love (traveling, playing an instrument, bouldering).
✅ Ideally, a pic that starts a conversation.
🚫 No fake candids where you’re obviously posing but pretending not to.
Your Photos Are Your First Impression
If you want matches who actually want to meet you, your photos need to do the work. No one’s reading your bio if your pics don’t pass the vibe check first.
We hope these photos gave you ideas for your own Hinge profile. If you need new photos and someone to hold the camera, we are here for you in Europe & the US.
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