I’ve said it before: a good photo of you is the single best way to increase interest in your profile. In fact, Evan Katz, author of the best-seller "I Can’t Believe I’m Buying This Book — A Commonsense Guide to Successful Internet Dating," recently told Seduction Insider, "Even though my business is all about writing the best profile ... the most important thing is having a quality picture."

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So why haven’t you posted one yet? If it’s because you don't know the best way to go about it, then keep reading. I’ve got the top 18 tips for posting photos on TRUE that get you noticed and get you clicks!

1. Say cheese.
   Show your smile. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so show others that you’re open and friendly.
2. Keep it simple.
   To make sure the focus is on you, keep the background of your picture clean and clutter-free.
3. Clearly the best.
   While a fuzzy, blurry photo may look good in an art gallery, for your profile you want to be perfectly clear. Show them who you are with a sharp, clear photo.
4. Get the light right.
   Make sure you’ve your face is well-lit — you've got it, so flaunt it!
5. Bigger is better.
   The picture you submit should be big enough so your face is still clearly visible when it's cropped.
6. Mix it up.
   Add a second photo of you in another pose for added variety.
7. Label yourself.
   Identify which person you are if you submit a picture of you and your friends.
8. Format matters.
   Be sure to submit your picture in jpeg format.
9. Leave the past behind you.
   Don't submit a picture of yourself and your former boyfriend/girlfriend. If you're looking for a new partner, submit a current picture of only yourself.
10. Fill in the blanks.
    Also, don't submit a picture that has an obvious "cut-out" of another person in the photo — it sends a less-than-positive impression.
11. Webcam worries.
    If using a webcam, don't get too close when taking your picture — if you do, the picture will appear grainy and fuzzy … you don't want that!
12. Keep it clean.
    Make sure your pictures are tasteful; don't submit sexual or suggestive pictures.
13. Put your best face forward.
    Your picture should clearly show your facial features.
14. Stay current on your shots.
    Don't submit your old high school or college photo — current shots of you only!
15. Every picture tells a story.
    Make your photo come alive with a caption. Something clever and flirtatious is always good, but keep it casual. One favorite is "the Joey" (from Friends): "How YOU doin'?"
16. Choose wisely.
    Men should save pictures of that last hunting trip or your new bike for secondary pix. And likewise, ladies, shots of you and your pets — or you and your girlfriends — should be used as extras. Don’t use a picture of you in a Halloween costume or one that includes you and your ex.
17. Get some help.
    A good rule of thumb is to get friends or family members to help you select your primary photo. Oftentimes they are a better judge of what pictures show you to your best advantage.
18. Don’t be shady.
    Show your eyes. Wearing sunglasses can make you look untrustworthy.

So don't wait — add your fabulous photo now! Simply click here to login and follow the easy on-screen instructions.

Need help? We're here for you!

• Email your photo to Customer Care and they'll upload it to your profile (please include your Screen Name in your email).
• Mail your photo (please include your mailing address and your Screen Name) to Customer Care, and they'll scan it in, upload it to your profile, and then return it to you.
  

Don't be shy! Show the world who you are!

Want me to take a look at your profile and tell you what I think? I'm here for you – email me!

Want me to use your profile in an upcoming column? Email me! But don’t worry – unless you give me permission to use your profile for a column (with names and identifying details changed), everything we discuss will remain confidential.