How can I show my interests and hobbies through my photos without them looking staged?
You want your dating profile to feel like you, not a stock image version of your life.
But when it comes to showcasing your interests, hobbies, or passions, it’s easy to veer into cheesy or over-posed territory. So how do you strike the balance?
First, remember: a photo doesn’t have to prove you do something. It just needs to hint at the kind of life you live. The difference is subtle but powerful. Instead of lining up a perfect still-life of you holding a tennis racket next to a scoreboard (we’ve seen it), think about moments where you naturally look engaged, energized, or curious.
Maybe your friend snapped a candid while you were mid-paint stroke at a community mural, or you have a shot of you laughing at a backyard jam session, ukulele in hand. These are the images that carry what we call a strong Presence Signature - photos where your energy and personality come through, not just your props.
Here are a few practical ways to show your hobbies without the photos feeling stiff or staged:
Use real-life moments. Ask a friend to take a few casual photos during an actual hobby hang. You’ll look more relaxed, and the emotion will be genuine.
Embrace imperfect. The best photos often have a little movement, mess, or magic. You don’t need perfect lighting to tell a real story.
Avoid “resume photos.” Instead of lining up your hobbies like a checklist (one pic for hiking, one for cooking, etc.), choose 1–2 that feel most you and showcase your vibe, not just your skill set.
Ultimately, people aren’t looking for someone with an impressive list of activities. They’re looking for someone they can feel something from. So pick the photos that pulse with a little life. That’s what sparks curiosity and connection.
Struggling to choose the right photos? Upload yours to LoveLens and get private, personalized insight into what kind of energy your pictures are actually sending.