Most people land here because their dating profile isn’t getting the response they expect — even though it looks “fine.”
Most people land here because their dating profile isn’t getting the response they expect — even though it looks “fine” on the surface.
Creating an engaging online dating profile involves more than just selecting flattering photos. It’s about showcasing your personality and interests to attract like-minded individuals. One effective way to do this is by incorporating your hobbies into your dating photos. This not only makes your profile stand out but also gives potential matches a glimpse into your life. Here are some tips on how to incorporate your hobbies into your online dating photos for success.
If you’re into sports or fitness, include action shots or photos of you participating in your favorite activities. Whether it’s hiking, cycling, running, or playing a sport, these photos demonstrate your active lifestyle and dedication to staying fit.
Example:
For more ideas on active dating photo poses, check out this site with examples.



If you have a creative hobby like painting, photography, or playing a musical instrument, use your dating photos to highlight these interests. Set up a scene where you’re engaged in your creative process, showcasing your passion and talent.
Example:



Including hobbies in your dating photos can be powerful — but only if the signals they send actually match who you are and what you want to attract.
Sometimes the issue isn’t the activity itself, but how it’s positioned: photo order, context, or how hobby shots interact with the rest of your profile.
The Match-Ready™ Profile Audit is a professional review of your dating profile that looks at how your photos work together as a whole — including whether your hobby images are helping or quietly confusing your message.
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Learn more about the Match-Ready™ Profile Audit
(Not about doing more — about making what you already have work better.)
If you have pets, including them in your dating photos can be a great way to show your love for animals. Photos with your pets can also indicate your caring and nurturing side, making you more relatable and approachable.
Example:

If you’re passionate about cooking or baking, consider incorporating this hobby into your dating photos. Capture moments of you preparing a meal or enjoying your culinary creations, which can highlight your skills and love for good food.
Example:




If traveling is one of your favorite hobbies, use your dating photos to share your adventures. Photos from your travels can spark conversations and show your love for exploring new places.
Example:

Photos with friends or participating in group activities can indicate that you’re sociable and enjoy spending time with others. These photos can also provide context for your hobbies and interests.
Example:
Incorporating your hobbies into your online dating photos is an excellent way to make your profile more engaging and relatable. By showcasing your interests and passions, you provide potential matches with a deeper understanding of who you are and what you enjoy. Remember to keep your photos authentic and true to yourself, as authenticity is key in attracting genuine connections. By following these tips on how to incorporate your hobbies into your online dating photos, you can create a profile that truly stands out and attracts the right attention.

By following these tips, you can create a captivating and authentic online dating profile that stands out from the crowd and attracts meaningful connections. Happy dating!
Ready to update your online dating profile with stunning, personalized photos? Book your session with Shannon Kathleen Photography today and let your hobbies shine through your images!

Hi — I’m Shannon O’Malley.
I’m a Minneapolis-based (soon-to-be Dallas, TX) photographer specializing in online dating profile photography, personal branding portraits, business headshots, and senior sessions. I work with people who want photos that feel natural, confident, and genuinely reflective of who they are — not stiff, overproduced, or performative.
My approach is rooted in natural light, ease, and emotional intelligence. I believe the best photos happen when people feel comfortable enough to be themselves — and seen enough to trust the process. Whether someone is stepping back into dating, refining their professional presence, or marking a meaningful season of life, my goal is always the same: to create images that feel honest and quietly powerful.
With over 15 years of experience behind the camera — and a journey that includes single motherhood, entrepreneurship, and a national CBS feature — I’ve seen firsthand how much impact the right photos can have. A strong image isn’t about vanity. It’s about clarity. It’s often the first impression that shapes how others perceive you — before you ever get the chance to explain yourself.
This blog is where I share insights on photography, visibility, confidence, and showing up with intention — both on and off camera.
When I’m not photographing clients, you’ll usually find me with my husband, my son, and our beautifully blended family — soaking up everyday life here in the Twin Cities (for now). We’ll be relocating to Dallas, Texas in 2026, where I’ll continue offering my signature photography experience for daters, creatives, and business owners throughout the DFW area.
If you’re here because you want photos that actually feel like you, you’re in the right place. I’m glad you found your way here.
July 22, 2024

Twin Cities Online Dating & Branding Photographer
Helping singles feel confident, seen, and chosen.
Serving Minneapolis–St. Paul through Spring 2026
Travel sessions available nationwide • Dallas launching May 2026
Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN
Edina • Eagan • Maple Grove
Woodbury • White Bear Lake & beyond
Dallas–Fort Worth (Launching May 2026)
Trusted by Twin Cities singles using Bumble, Hinge & OurTime
hello@shannonkathleenphotography.com
Twin Cities online dating photographer helping Minneapolis–St. Paul singles create dating photos that work.
As seen on CBS News / WCCO, Bella Grace & Newsbreak
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