Your WhatsApp profile picture is often the first impression you make on new contacts. Having a high quality, appealing profile photo can help you put your best face forward and make a great first impression. Here are some tips on taking, editing and optimizing your WhatsApp profile picture.
Use a high resolution photo
A high resolution photo will look sharp and clear on devices with high resolution screens. The recommended resolution for WhatsApp profile pictures is at least 400×400 pixels. Anything smaller may look blurry or pixelated, especially on high-end smartphones.
When taking a photo for your profile, use the rear camera on your smartphone which typically has a higher megapixel count than the front camera. You can also use a digital camera to take a high-res shot. Avoid scanning old photos or using screengrabs which will be low quality.
Get good lighting
Proper lighting eliminates shadows and prevents your photo from looking dark or grainy. When taking your profile photo:
- Face a window or bright source for even, natural lighting on your face
- Avoid shadows by ensuring light is not behind you
- Use flash to brighten up low light conditions
- Take photos outdoors for great natural light
Harsh direct light can also be unflattering, so diffuse bright outdoor light by stepping into a shaded area. Late afternoon golden hour lighting is ideal for portraits.
Use a solid background
A solid, plain background helps the focus remain entirely on you. Busy backgrounds can be distracting and take attention away from your face. Some tips for background:
- Stand in front of a wall, fence or door for a solid color background
- Hang a sheet or blanket behind you
- Outdoors, take the photo with sky or foliage behind you
Avoid cluttered locations or patterns and textures like stripes. A light neutral tone works best so there is contrast between you and the background.
Pick a relaxed facial expression
A natural, relaxed facial expression will look friendlier and more approachable in your profile photo. Some tips for an appealing expression include:
- Smile slightly instead of a full broad grin
- Convey warmth in your eyes
- Avoid blank stares which can seem cold
- Relax your face instead of raising your eyebrows
- Lean your face slightly forwards towards the camera
Have a friend take candid photos of you smiling and laughing to capture a natural, approachable moment. Avoid selfies from above which can distort your face.
Get a flattering angle
Shooting from a slightly higher angle can be more flattering for your facial proportions in photos. Avoid low angles looking up your nose. Some tips for angle:
- Hold camera slightly above your face
- Take photo standing on a step to elevate
- Tilt chin down slightly and look up at camera
Position camera at eye level and tilt head for a flattering angle. Shoot from multiple angles to see most complementary one.
Frame just your face
Cropping the photo close on your face keeps the focus tightly on you. Some tips for framing:
- Start with wide shot then crop in on just face
- Leave just a little space around your head
- Crop between your hairline and chin
- Cut photo above the shoulders
Check that your head isn’t too small in the frame. Leave a little more space if you have long hair or are wearing a hat, scarf etc.
Edit blemishes and touch up
Minor editing can help perfect your profile picture. Just avoid going overboard. Some simple edits you can make include:
- Smooth over any temporary blemishes
- Subtly whiten teeth and brighten eyes
- Sharpen overall focus for clarity
- Increase brightness/contrast slightly to liven up
Use photo editing apps like Snapseed and PicsArt to make adjustments. Don’t use filters which look artificial. Ensure edits look natural.
Check preview on device
Preview how your chosen photo looks on the device you actually use WhatsApp on. This shows you exactly how it will appear to your contacts. If using phone camera, preview directly in WhatsApp before taking photo.
Check clarity, framing, brightness etc look good on your display. The high resolution will ensure it still looks great on contacts’ devices too.
Pick a professional look
Dressing professionally can project an image of reliability to contacts. For men, some tips include:
- Wear a collared shirt or formal top
- Add a blazer or suit jacket
- Shave or neatly trim facial hair
For women, some tips include:
- Wear minimal jewelry and accessories
- Style your hair neatly tied back or down
- Apply natural looking makeup
Avoid casual wear like t-shirts or hoodies. Look tidy and polished to give a professional impression.
Smile with an open mouth
An open-mouth smile looks more authentic and conveys warmer emotions:
- Show your teeth naturally
- Let your face relax into a smile
- Eyes can look more engaged
- Avoid a crazy fake laugh look
Practice your open-mouth smile in the mirror before getting photos. Don’t force it unnaturally.
Show only your face clearly
The focus should be completely on your face in the profile picture:
- Crop out other people or distractions
- Don’t include props or accessories
- Blur out busy backgrounds
- No sunglasses or headwear
Having just your face in the photo makes it easier for contacts to recognize you and remember who you are.
Look directly at the camera
Maintaining eye contact with the camera makes you look more friendly and approachable:
- Look directly down the lens
- Keep your head straight
- Focus your gaze on camera
- Avoid looking off-camera
Position the camera at your eye level. Check there is a catchlight reflection in your eyes.
Be alone in the photo
Having only yourself in the photo keeps the focus entirely on you:
- Crop out other people if necessary
- Pick a setting without crowds
- Avoid group or selfie shots
- Look directly at the camera
You can include other people in your WhatsApp gallery or feeds instead. Profile picture should be all about you.
Pick a simple background
A simple background helps the focus stay on your face in the profile picture:
- Solid wall or plain fabric backdrops
- Outdoor settings like sky or trees
- Avoid cluttered or busy locations
- Neutral colors work best
If outdoors, position yourself so the setting is blurred or use portrait mode. Avoid distracting backgrounds.
Use soft, natural lighting
Soft, natural lighting eliminates harsh shadows that can be unflattering:
- Outdoor shade on a bright day
- Near a large window indoors
- Overcast days create even lighting
- Early morning or late afternoon light
Avoid having a bright light source behind you. Face the light source for even lighting on your features.
Conclusion
A good WhatsApp profile picture accurately reflects your personality while looking professional, friendly and approachable. Taking a flattering, high quality photo and editing it appropriately can create an appealing profile photo to impress your contacts.
Pay attention to lighting, facial expression, angle and framing when capturing your image. Dress professionally, smile an open natural smile and make eye contact with the camera. Pick a simple background and edit lightly. Following these tips can help you create the perfect profile picture.