Photo types. What works.
25 common photo types, from candids to car selfies. When each one works, when it fails, and how to make a better one.
Lead with these
- Professional HeadshotGreat for LinkedIn.
- Candid PhotoThe single highest-converting photo type when done well.
- Activity PhotoShows personality faster than a bio ever could.
- Outdoor PhotoLighting alone makes outdoor photos beat indoor ones 3 times out of 4.
- Social Event PhotoWedding photos, dinner-party photos, concerts.
- Photo with a PetUniversally well-received.
- Outfit PhotoSpecifically a 'fit pic.' Useful when your style is part of your identity.
- Photo With One FriendBetter than group photos for social proof.
- Wedding PhotoSuit/dress photos work; bride-and-groom-adjacent photos don't.
- Beach PhotoLifestyle signal.
- Professional PhotoshootPays off if you also have casual photos.
- Photo Holding a DrinkFine in moderation.
Later in the set
- Mirror SelfieThe most controversial photo type in dating.
- Gym PhotoHigh-risk, high-reward.
- Plain Selfie (Front Camera)Useable in moderation.
- Travel PhotoA stale meta.
- Group PhotoSocial proof if used right.
- Shirtless PhotoPolarizing.
- Photo in a CarThe worst-performing common photo type.
- Photo with KidsUseful only if the kids are yours and your profile makes that clear.
- Throwback Photo (Old Photo)Catfishing-light.
- Photo Cooking or EatingUnderrated.
- Photo Posed with a PropGuitar, bike, fish, golf club.
- Passport-Style HeadshotThe most-failed common photo type.
- Concert / Festival PhotoWork for the right demographic.
Your best photo type. About a minute.
Pick a type or describe your own. Get the photo, then make it move.