DP stands for “Display Picture”. It refers to the profile picture or avatar that users set for their social media accounts like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc. The profile picture allows users to express their personality or interests through images. Setting a unique and appealing DP has become an important part of cultivating an online identity.
The term DP is commonly used in India and countries in South Asia. It originates from the feature ‘Display Picture’ found on the popular social network Orkut which was widely used in these countries in the 2000s. The usage of the shortened form DP carried over to other social networks like Facebook and Twitter which later gained prominence in the region.
Significance of DP in online identity
A profile picture or DP is often the first thing that people notice on your social media profile. It allows viewers to put a face to a name and also conveys additional information through visual cues. This makes the DP an important part of shaping how others perceive you online.
Reflects personality and interests
Users often choose DPs that reflect their personality – like using an image that aligns with the interests, causes or organizations they support. A DP can instantly give viewers clues into what the user is like as an individual.
For example, someone who loves travelling may use a DP taken on a scenic vacation. Similarly, someone who is into fitness may use a picture from their gym or marathon. Companies use logos or product images that convey their brand identity through their corporate DPs.
Conveys current mood or events
The profile picture can also give a snapshot into what the user is currently focused on or experiencing. For instance, using a festive DP during holiday seasons, images with newborn babies to announce parenthood or pictures with a graduating student.
Shows off style and appearance
For many, the DP is simply a way to put their best foot forward and show off their personal style or appearance to the online world. Especially for teens and young adults, the DP may feature their latest look, hairstyle or fashion choices.
How people choose their profile pictures
With the DP being central to making first impressions online, users devote thought into selecting it carefully. Here are some common approaches people take:
Using their best selfies
Selfies allow the user full control in capturing their appearance. Many choose stylish selfies that highlight their best features. Good lighting, flattering angles and smiles are preferred.
Choosing professional photographs
Professionally done photos are seen as an upgrade over casual selfies. They convey that the users values quality photos and often feature better composition and clarity.
Featuring loved ones
Pictures with romantic partners, children, pets or best friends communicate relationships that are important to the user. Group photos also represent friendship and connections.
Aligning with interests
Featuring a relevant hobby, passion or interest is a genuine way to express oneself. Travel, sports, arts, food and more – images can reveal what makes the user unique.
Coordinating with feed aesthetic
On highly visual platforms like Instagram, some cohesively edit their entire feed including the DP. This creates a consistent aesthetic for their page. The DP sets the tone for the style of images they share.
Why people update their profile pictures
While some prefer to keep their DPs consistent, others change it from time to time. Some reasons for DP updates include:
Marking major life events
Updating the DP is a way users commemorate major milestones like:
- Getting married
- Having a baby
- Graduating
- Starting a new job
- Moving cities
The updated DP visually announces these important events to the user’s social networks.
Rebranding themselves
A DP change can represent a personal rebranding. This may be sparked by a new look, moving to a new phase of life or an updated sense of identity. The new DP reflects who they are becoming.
Suiting seasons and occasions
Users may change DPs to match seasonal events, cultural celebrations or holidays. Special DPs are commonly seen around events like New Year’s Eve, birthdays, festivals and commemorative months.
Diversifying and refreshing feed
On visually driven platforms like Instagram or Snapchat, users get bored seeing the same DP repeatedly. Changing it up refreshes their feed and showcases more sides of their personality.
When old DPs are compromised
In some unfortunate instances, users have to change DPs if they are leaked, hacked or used without consent. This helps reclaim their online identity.
Things to consider when selecting your profile picture
Your social media DP choice conveys as much about you as your written content or posts. Here are some tips on choosing an appropriate and strategic profile picture:
Pick a high quality photo
A clear and vibrant image makes a good first impression so the photo quality matters. If using a selfie, take multiple shots in bright lighting using the back camera for sharpness.
Show your face clearly
Obscuring your face with accessories or shadows makes it harder for others to connect with you. Have your face clearly visible unless you need anonymity.
Dress appropriately
Consider the platform you are using and what is considered respectable. Revealing or inappropriate DPs can be subject to removal or negative reactions.
Smile and make eye contact
Looking directly at the camera with a warm smile makes you appear more approachable and friendly.
Convey your personality
Feature hobbies, pets or locations that give others a glimpse into your interests to find common ground.
Coordinate colors with branding
If for a business account, match colors to reinforce branding like red for Coca-Cola or green for Spotify.
Ensure cultural appropriateness
Images considered taboo in certain cultures like posing with alcohol may not be suitable as a DP. Do research to avoid inadvertent offense.
Keep it current
Use a photo from the past 1-2 years so your appearance remains relevant. Outdated DPs may confuse connections.
Common DP mistakes to avoid
When deciding on a profile picture, there are some common mistakes that are best avoided:
Blurry or pixelated images
Low resolution DPs that are grainy reflect poorly on you. Always use high definition images.
Group shots where you cannot be identified
If there are multiple people, ensure you stand out so people know who your profile belongs to.
Bathroom selfies with inappropriate setting
Watch your background to steer clear of unhygienic or compromising locations.
Drinking, smoking or rude hand gestures
Even if done humorously, such DPs can be viewed as unprofessional or offensive.
Revealing or sexualized images
Provocative DPs often attract unwanted attention and are subject to being banned or reported.
False representation using excessive filters
While some editing can enhance a DP, drastic changes to misrepresent how you look create unrealistic expectations.
Outdated DPs from childhood
Sporting hairstyles and clothing from decades past may confuse people who know you now.
Copying profile pictures of celebrities or fictional characters
Unique DPs help show off your own identity better rather than unoriginal imitation.
Impact of your profile picture
Your profile picture has a significant impact shaping initial opinions – with some key implications:
Employability
On professional platforms like LinkedIn and job matching sites, your DP needs to look polished and employer-friendly. Recruiters often view profiles and a fun DP may work against you.
Approachability
A friendly smile and relaxed pose makes people feel more comfortable about interacting or reaching out to you.
Credibility
A formal businesslike photo can project professionalism and expertise – especially effective for established thought leaders or personal brands.
Dating profile success
On dating apps, an attractive, vibrant DP improves your chances of making potential matches. Fun pictures also give conversation starters.
First impression for new connections
When people accept your friend request or start following you, your DP determines how they form their initial perception about you.
Fan following
For influencers, vloggers and celebs, their DPs help reinforce their image. Their followers often replicate these profile pictures to show their support.
Overall social media presence
An appealing and strategic DP makes your profile stand out on social platforms. It’s key to looking cohesive and professional.
Best practices for updating your DP
When the time comes to change your profile picture, some best practices can ensure a smooth transition:
Gradual change
Don’t change your DP suddenly from a years old photo to a brand new look. Do it gradually for less surprising reveal.
Give advanced notice
Let close contacts know your DP will be updated to avoid confusion if you look markedly different.
Maintain some visual connection
Having a similar pose, outfit or background elements can make your new DP feel like an extension of the old one.
Coordinate DP change across platforms
Update your new profile photo simultaneously on all major social media platforms you use for consistency.
Use tools to change DP across platforms
Apps like Hootsuite allow scheduling a mass DP update across multiple networks all at once.
Explain context in caption
Adding a text caption contextualizing a dramatic DP change helps people understand the reasoning.
Make appropriate to your audiences
Ensure your new DP upholds standards of professionalism or appropriateness for the platforms it will be viewed on.
Check comments
Glance at comments on your first few posts with the new DP to see if people have positive reactions.
Revert if required
If the new profile pic is not well-received or you are uncomfortable with too much attention on the change, you can always revert back.
Conclusion
A thoughtfully created profile picture or DP is a core part of your identity and first impression on social media. Select images that authentically reflect who you are while putting your best foot forward. Stay on top of updating your DP to keep social media profiles refreshed and engaging. With the right image, your DP can do wonders in effectively conveying how you want to be perceived online.