by Trixze Smith

Created on: June 23, 2008   Last Updated: July 02, 2008

To many people, our social networking photo is the first face they meet. To others, our profile is a way to maintain an existing relationship. This group includes friends, family and regular acquaintances. You should take in mind the many different groups of people who may see your photo. Even if your profile is private, your photo may still be available to people who search your name on the internet.

These days, it is very common for a perspective employer to search for the profiles of job candidates on the web. As sites like MySpace, FaceBook and others become a standard way to communicate, it is important to consider how your profile photo represents you online. Think of your profile as a calling card to the world. Now ask your self if you are sending the right message. Here are 5 tips on choosing the best photo to represent you on your social networking site.

1). LOOK LIKE YOU
You should choose a photo that represents who you really are. People are funny and usually do not really know their own good qualities. If you think you have a problem judging your self ask a friend to help you pick out your best look. Or, better yet

2). GO PRO
Many photo retouching/photography companies offer services for social networking sites. They will help you choose the best photos, as well as retouch and crop the pictures to look their best. This gives your photo a sharp and clean feel. Much more professional and appealing than a grainy cell phone pic!

3). STAY AWAY FROM PHOTOSHOP
I'm sure Andy Warhol would be proud that you figured out how to recreate his style on your iMac, but the rest of us are onto you. People want to see you, not what you would look like if you were standing in front of a fun-house mirror. Save these pictures for your albums where the people who care will go to enjoy.

4). NO PDA
While we all wish you well with your fianc, keep your declarations for your love to your relationship status and your comment posts. Your picture should be you the individual. Create a special slideshow that showcases the greatest hits of you and your honey. When it comes to your official profile picture, let the world see you for you...and you alone.

5). KEEP IT CLEAN
As much as you want to show the world that you rival Paris when it comes to partying, don't let that be the way you introduce yourself. You want everyone to know that while you love having a good time, you are also a person who deserves to be taken seriously. Keep the black-out moments where they belong- out of the picture. There is a reason why you can't remember them in the first place.

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