by Ilanit Moskal

Created on: June 21, 2008   Last Updated: July 02, 2008

We've all seen them- sad little photos above the person's description taken with a webcam that feature the person sitting in front of the computer with an embarrassed smile (they know it's a bad picture). So how do you avoid the all too common pitfalls of picture posting, and even go beyond that and make yours truly representative of who you are? Here are five tips to make you photo truly shine:

Number 1- Outfit: Yes you love your bright yellow shirt, but does the camera love it too? You have to be extra careful when choosing an outfit for your picture. Decide whether you want a shoulders or waist up or full body shot. Plan what features you would like to accentuate, do you want people to notice your eyes? In that case choose a color that will make your eyes pop without washing the rest of you out. You want the picture to represent you at your best. That means looking polished and put together (not too revealing ladies, and no stained shirts guys).
Number 2- Camera: Now that you're all dressed and ready to get in front of the camera, make sure it's the right kind of camera. Please, no webcam (or cell phone for the matter) shots! Take the time to dig out your real camera (or borrow a friend's) and become familiar with the portrait setting. It makes a world of difference, and will show that this picture was more then just an afterthought snapshot, but a genuine portrait of who you are.
Number 3- Background: Here you are, the perfect outfit on, camera in hand, now what? Now you find the right background. Outdoor pictures look best, you get nice natural lighting and an interesting background. Try and coordinate your little photo shoot with a sunny day and some greenery. If you live in a location with special outdoor features like an ocean, beach, forest, or some other beautiful and different landscape, take advantage of it! The background in your picture can really set you apart from all the boring dolts sitting at their desk or randomly in their living room.
Number 4- Facial Expression: So you're standing in front of some lovely greenery, in your flattering outfit, ready to pose for the camera- do you smile, do you look pensively into the distance? Think about the kind of image you are trying to create, and what is the best facial expression you could use to get that across. Practice in front of the mirror if you need to, you want to get it just right. You might think that you look sexy when you make a certain face, but you were wrong about that yellow shirt weren't you?
Number 5- Photo Retouching: Once you have a picture of you in a good setting, wearing the right clothes, looking approachable, all that's left to truly present a photo that will blow all others out of the water is to use a photo retouching service. This can really optimize all the effort that you have put into your picture. This is an option that many do not consider, but it can transform your profile from run of the mill, to one in a million.
The key to making your photo stand out is to spend some time, and put some thought into the different elements that go into composing a great picture. It is worth it; you know what they say about first impressions

Learn more about this author, Ilanit Moskal.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.