January 18, 2026•Blog
Should You Use Professional Headshots on Dating Apps? 2024 Guide
Professional shots can raise trust 28 % but backfire if too corporate. Learn when to invest & when to skip.
LinkedIn-style portraits feel sterile on Tinder, yet subtle pro lighting lifts perceived stability. Balance is everything—here’s the data.
#1Trust vs. Approachability
OKCupid found crisp pro lighting boosts hetero-men’s trust score 28 %, but over-retouching drops reply rate 15 %. Aim for “candid but polished.”
#2Price Sweet Spot
A 30-minute mini-session ($150–$200) yields 5 usable pics. Skip the suit; opt for a well-fitted tee or denim shirt. Informal wardrobe + pro light = swipe magnet.
#3Key Takeaways
- One pro photo max, mix with everyday shots.
- Ask photographer for f/2.0 aperture—creamy background.
- No heavy filters; retain skin texture.
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