While it is true that when we join online dating sites, a lot of us would like to meet someone good in their heart and soul, someone we could talk to and have fun with, it is also a fact that most people look at the profile's photo and that first impression is a deciding factor in whether they would want to hook up with the person or not. While having a fun and creative profile really matters, your photo can also make a difference.

Here are some reminders when uploading a photo for your profile:

• Choose a photo that shows what you really look like. Pick one that clearly shows your face so when you do finally get the chance to meet someone; they know exactly what you look like. Moreover, most reputable online dating sites have a committee that approves and views photos before they are uploaded to a profile. They don’t allow pictures with unclear images of their members' faces. They do this for many reasons, such as security and aesthetics.
• Select a snapshot that doesn’t include anyone else. Posting a group photo can be confusing to those who will view your profile; they may have a hard time picking you out from the group. Also, since there are many people in the picture, chances are you would hardly be seen, as your face would be small. This may just lead your potential mate to move on. Make it easy for them to pick you out. Go solo.
• Post more than one photo, showing multiple shots of you, like a close up, and a body shot. This increases your chances of attracting more viewers. This way, you show you aren’t afraid to show who you really are and what you look like as whole. You give the impression of honesty, which many people appreciate.
• Post a photo showing you in a relaxed and friendly manner. This is like a ray of sunshine to your profile. It shows that you are warm and approachable. People will not hesitate to send you a message.
• Don’t rush and post the first picture of you that you find. Take the time to browse your collection. Display your best. Most of all, it should be your latest photo. I do not think people would want to see your baby pictures just yet.
• If you don’t have a recent photo or you don’t have a digitized photo, have one scanned. If not, this may be a good time to invest in an affordable digital camera. You can never go wrong in purchasing one.

A picture is worth a thousand words. Your photo alone speaks a lot about yourself. So aside from your closeup, try including some pictures of you in action. If you are into fishing, you can place a photo of you on your fishing trip. If you like dogs, try to include a picture of you and your dogs in a light playful moment. Don’t use this as your primary photo though. Through your photos, you can show your viewers who you are and what you are interested in. With this, they will already feel comfortable with you and this will open up many channels for communication.

Are you convinced yet? Here are some facts found by research done on online dating sites:

• Compared to a profile without a photo, pictured profiles gets five more times replies and views. This is because people say that they are interested in the pictures and are more comfortable meeting people who they at least have an idea of what they look like.
• Most women said that they would rather meet men on online dating sites with photos in their profiles. This makes the experience more personal for them.
• A male profile with 3 to 5 photos in various activities receives 7 to 9 times more replies than profiles that don’t have photos.
• A female's profile with 3 to 5 photos attracts 9 to 12 times more viewers than those that don’t have photos.

These numbers prove the necessity of posting your picture!