January 18, 2026•Blog
Happn Photo Tips 2024: Crush the Proximity Algorithm
Happn shows your photo inside a map bubble. Learn how to stand out at 32×32 px first glance.
On most apps your face competes with five other thumbnails; on Happn it’s framed by a map. These four tweaks exploit that tiny real estate.
#1High-Contrast Silhouette
Shoot against a neon sign or bright doorway; the strong outline makes you recognizable at 50 m mini-map size. Avoid cloudy backgrounds that blend into the app’s grey streets.
#2Include Local Icon
Hold a recognizable object from your city: broomstick from Harry Potter set in London, yellow cab toy in NYC. It gives her an instant “I walk past that daily” spark and starts conversation.
#3Key Takeaways
- Use portrait mode with side light for crisp edges
- Skip sunglasses—eyes matter at 1 cm tall
- Replace every 30 days to avoid “photo fatigue” penalty in algorithm
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