PROFILE-PICK

If a simple picture speaks a thousand words, then a profile picture speaks a lot more and other than just identifying the owner; such a photo can communicate different messages whether intended or otherwise. Example, a profile photo can communicate success, professionalism or even desperation. We all want to create an impression on our online friends and more so on strangers (our target audience) and therefore a lot of consideration should be placed when deciding on the type of profile picture to use. This photo should at all times communicate who you are, also remember the moment you put out content on the world wide web, it gets a life of its own; you no longer own that photo or its subsequent effects the instant you press the upload button. A profile photo should be a recent photo of you and not that of your ‘adorable’ baby or your ‘cute’ puppy, those ones go to your cover photo which ideally depict your likes and interests. When taking the photo be aware of the lighting and you can use ‘bokeh’ to evade destructive backgrounds, also refrain from over-exposing or being overly ‘sexy’ as you never know who will be going through your photos… it might be your would-be boss! For the business oriented, use a profile picture as a personal brand and make sure your look is relevant for the field you work in since you want to maintain professionalism. For a decent profile photo have someone photograph you; the photos come out much better.         

       

Idris looking sharp in one of the photos he selected to use as his profile pic

      


       Camera - NIKON D3100

       Focal Length - 32mm
       Shutter Speed - 1/40 sec
       Aperture - f/5.6 

       ISO/Film - 1600
       Category - Fashion
       Uploaded - June 4th 2013  
       Taken - April 18th 2013

       Location - USIU Nairobi, Kenya
       Copyright - Stephen Mukhongi