by Kate Johns

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

HO-HUM! So you don't want to take a picture that looks like every other Internet picture out there. You want people to stop and look at your picture, and wonder why you even need to market yourself on a social networking site. Besides, coloring your hair five different colors, or doing the naked or topless thing is so yesterday.

Here are five ways to stand out from the crowd for YOUR social networking picture:

DIFFERENT PHOTOS

Take a totally different picture that has some meaning. Try taking a profile picture. By taking a profile picture, it will be different from all the other pictures out there! You want to stand out from the crowd and be the most popular person on the Internet. Try taking a profile shot while lying down, yes with clothes on. (Wouldn't that be different!)? Even if you have a rather large nose, go for it! It will be creative, and make you stand out from the pack.

REAL CAMERA

Get a digital camera and have a friend take your picture. Do not use a cell phone camera! Almost everyone takes a picture of himself or herself by holding the cell phone at arm's length. Nobody wants to see the top of your head. Be inventive and have your friend take your picture. Take a lot of pictures with a digital camera. Experiment, get creative, have some fun!

PERSONALITY

How about opening up and showing people who you truly are? That way people will be more interested in the real you. Remember a picture is worth a thousand words. How about a side angle shot at your favorite place, such as the beach, or the park, holding your dog? Why not take a picture showing something you like to do, such as reading, playing guitar, playing video games. This is how you get other people interested, thus making new friends.

MAKEUP

Take your time and take a great picture. Put on makeup, make your hair look great, and wear some decent clothes. Don't cover up your face with your hair. Don't cover up your face with a book, or take a picture of a doll, or try to hide. We aren't all gorgeous super models, but with some makeup, a great haircut, or a cool looking hat, added touches can help create a picture-worthy you. Think about your true inner self and bring the real you out.

RETOUCHING

With digital photography everyone can hide those flaws. With the click of the mouse get rid of those red-eyes, and those dark under eye circles. Minimize those unsightly pimples, and that second chin that suddenly comes out of nowhere. When you smile you can even make your teeth look completely white. Many types of software are available today such as Photoshop to create a better looking you. You don't want to look like Dracula, but you do want to look attractive. Many digital cameras come with the right tools that help you take a great picture.

Take a picture that will stand out from the rest. Try something different such as standing in front of a window, and best of all use all the creative tools you can to look your very best!

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