How to Choose a Profile Photo

A good profile photo lets someone recognize you at a glance and gives the impression you want for that account. Start with two or three recent photos of yourself. Preview each one at the size it will appear on your phone, then use these three checks.

1. Check the crop at thumbnail size

Preview the photo as a small circle or square, depending on where you’ll use it. Can you still recognize your face? Leave a little room around your head so the crop doesn’t cut off your face. If you have to zoom in to tell which person you are, try a closer crop or use a solo photo.

2. Look for even light and a calm background

If the details of your face disappear in shadow, try a photo taken facing a window or in open shade. Look at the background too. A bright sign or a busy crowd can draw attention away from your face. Before posting, check for visible names, addresses, or anything else you’d prefer to keep private.

3. Pick the photo that fits the account

Think about who will see the profile and what you’d like them to notice. For a work profile, you might want a photo that feels approachable in a professional setting. For a personal account, you might pick a more relaxed photo that shows something you enjoy. Look at your top two candidates side by side and ask which one better fits that purpose.

Ask for a second opinion

If you’re still unsure, post one photo of yourself on FACt.Smack and ask one question that someone can answer based on what they see.

• “Does this photo make me look approachable?”
• “Would you use this as a work profile photo?”
• “Is my face easy to recognize in this photo?”

People may read the same photo differently. Consider their impressions alongside the audience you have in mind, then choose the photo you’re comfortable using.