At some point, we’ve all received a lecture about first impressions from our parents, bosses, or teachers. On GigSalad, your profile picture is your first impression. We want you to make it a good one, and more importantly, we want you to showcase the best you possible. Here are 6 tips for picking the best profile picture for your PromoKit.
1. High-quality talent calls for a high-quality picture
Whatever image you choose, make sure it’s high-quality. It’s important for a potential client to clearly see what’s in the photo. That seems like the first victory, right? If your budget allows, consider hiring a photographer to get the most professional looking promotional photos. For the DIYers, there are other low-cost media options, and nowadays most smartphones can produce high-quality images. Here are a few helpful tips for getting the best photos.
2. Explain your talent clearly
Make sure that no matter what’s going on in the picture, it’s clear and understandable. A confusing image that requires an explanation (“There I am in the back!” or “Oh, this is the part of our act where we…”) will probably deter interest, even if the action in the frame is exciting or interesting on its own. When people are searching through GigSalad, they’re facing a barrage of PromoKits and profile pics. A busy image won’t do you any favors when set against your competitors’ photos.
3. Be wholeheartedly yourself
Use a profile picture that represents you seriously. By seriously, we don’t mean a stuffy, bland photo. Instead, display an image that truly represents the unique qualities that you or your group possess. Don’t be afraid to show your personality. If you provide a goofy variety show, display a goofy photo!
The best profile photos show potential clients exactly what they’ll be getting. There’s no such thing as “indie cred” when it comes to promotion — people need to see who you truly are. The only way you’ll attract the clients you really want is by portraying yourself or your group accurately.
4. Keep an eye on the competition
Don’t be afraid to see what your competition is up to. Check out other PromoKits in your category (and especially in your area) to see the images they’re using to market themselves. Highlight the unique aspects of your talent, and be sure to pay attention to the trends within your industry to stay relevant.
To view your competition, you can do a search from the GigSalad homepage, and the results will show you professionals in your same entertainment category and location. Examine their profile photos and even read their act descriptions. You may gain insight or inspiration for improving your own bio!
5. Display your services honestly
It can be tempting to add a picture that dramatizes or doesn’t entirely reflect the services you provide, but doing so will be counter-productive. False advertising will only cause you problems in the long run. Instead, take what you actually do and figure out a way to make that service marketable.
Dramatizing your talents, using props you would never include, or displaying a band photo when you’re strictly a solo artist will only disappoint the event planner. Potential clients who contact you from your PromoKit will have certain assumptions based on the information you’ve provided. When your photos are authentic, you’re communicating clearly with your clients, which helps you build trust and future referrals.
So, remember—your GigSalad profile picture is a potential client’s first impression of you. A low-quality image can chase away event planners and keep them from reaching out to you. On the other hand, the perfect profile picture can help set the stage for great opportunities! 
Matt Holland is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad. With 10+ years of experience performing as a jazz drummer, he has gained insights into the life of a gigging musician as well as what makes an event go off without a hitch. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and watching the newest TV shows with his wife.