Create Your Best Profile Pic by Image Editor

Create Your Best Profile Pic by Image Editor

In the world of social media, nothing’s more important than your profile pic. It’s the first thing that everyone sees, so having a good one will help you make a positive first impression.

But what makes a winning profile pic? Lots of things! What your wear, how you smile, what kind of background you use—they all go into making you look your best. We’ve got top-tier tools and tips to help you shoot, edit, and post your best profile pic so you can make a splash on all your favorite social networks.

Shooting your profile pic

Great profile pics start with the shoot. Here are a few tips and tricks:

• Use a neutral or muted background. White backgrounds can wash out lighter skin tones, and brightly colored backgrounds can cast an uncomplimentary hue across the skin.

• Use soft, natural light and avoid harsh flashes. This will ensure you look your best and will avoid obvious shadows.

• Show your brightest, most natural smile. Don’t be afraid to flash your pearly whites!

• Avoid selfies where you can see or sense that your arm is holding the camera. Instead, use a self-timer or have someone else take your picture.

• Experiment with angles. Some people say shooting from above works best, but everybody has a good side. Try different angles and positions to find yours.

Profile pics for professional sites

Profile pics on professional sites like LinkedIn should look, well, professional. Here are some ideas on how to achieve that I-will-be-the-best-employee-you’ve-ever-had look:

• Wear clothes that are appropriate for your profession. But if you feel like dressing up a bit, go for it. Going the extra mile by wearing a suit can give the impression that you’re capable and competent.

• Smile, but don’t go overboard. You want to appear approachable and inviting without looking like you’re laughing.

• Squinch. Yes, you heard that right. Everyone’s talking about squinching, which is basically what happens to your eyes when you smile. According to psychological research, wide eyes denote fear while slightly squinting denotes competence.

• Avoid hats, glasses, and other accessories. They not only make you look too casual, they tend to hide or obscure your eyes, which are the most important part of a great portrait.

• Stick with the tried and true head and shoulders shot. Close-cropped head shots can feel a little overwhelming for the viewer, and full body shots don’t work well in the confines of a small profile pic.

• Avoid using effects or filters. However, if you’d like to use a simple black and white effect like we did in the pic above, feel free. Traditional black and white lends a nice touch of class to your professional portrait.

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