As I discussed in my last post, your Profile Pic is an important part of your Twitter identity. So what type of photos do you have to select from? Below are the options currently being used on Twitter, in no particular order:
Professional Portrait – A professional photo is typically indicative of someone who is a professional of some sort. Examples from those I follow include @problogger, @brandcowboy, @leelefever, and @presentationzen. Not everyone has a professional portrait, which is why this can stand out and lend credibility to your profile. With the technology available in today’s cameras, it’s likely you can replicate a professional portrait (I hear the trick is proper lighting).
Personal Photo – This is the most common Profile Pic you’ll find, and the most difficult to stand out with. Examples are abundant, including myself currently (@ScottHorman).
Avatar – A caricature or Avatar is the accepted portrait in many digital worlds, and is also being used on Twitter. This tends to be a sign that the individual is highly involved in technology, and has had online profiles for far longer than their Twitter profile exists. Examples include @portenint, @moneymatters, and @ChrisPirillo. All three are wise to the workings of the web, and have a solid grasp on the underlying technology.
Icon – My definition of an Icon extends beyond the graphical representations found in website navigation to include caricatures, or inanimate objects. An Icon can be used well, as it is by @SocialMedia411 and @thegirlinyellow (A reminder: be sure that you have permission to use the photo you’re using).
Logo – A logo is indicative of a business of some sort. This can range from large corporate entities, like @INGDirect and @Starbucks, to entrepreneuers like @FrugalDad and @bargainr.
Random Photo – A random photo is often used for it’s entertainment value. As such, it can provide intrigue, but is often limited in providing insight into the topics you discuss. Examples include @stejules and @mivadiva. Those who do find a way to use this form of a Profile Pic constructively are rare, but worth applauding, like @twenforcer.
Default – Using the default image is not recommended, as it shows little commitment to the Twitter community and is often indicative of inactivity. With the proliferation of social networking sites, it’s likely you have a profile picture close by…so use it! Yes, I’m talking to you @atempest.
Doctored Photos – Adding graphics and items to a photo can be a way of crafting your personality onto an image of yourself. Just be certain not to clutter the image beyond recognition. @Pistachio has done this well. Also, doctoring a photo can be a way to keep an image fresh by adapting to the seasons (holiday Pics were popular) and current events (a ribbon indicating your support of a chosen cause).
Animated GIF’s – Those who really want to stand out within a Follower Log have taken to using animated GIF’s for their Profile Pic. The only example I have is a follower, @Astronautics, who is definitely using this image to not only grab attention, but provide insight to content. However, I think the appeal of animated GIFs is comparable to the early flashing banner ads that appeared on the web. I foresee this becoming the route of Twitter Spammers in the not-to-distant future.
Criteria for Selecting a Profile Pic
After determining which type of Profile Pic will best serve your needs, the critieria for determing a great Profile Pic are similar to the criteria used when selecting a diamond:
- Cut – You’ll want to select a photo or image that you can crop to fit within the square footprint used by Twitter. If your image is not square, it will display distorted.
- Clarity – Make sure your image can be deciphered at smaller sizes. Typically, anything more than a headshot will have you getting lost in the background.
- Color - Avoid images that have a lot of activity or interference in the background. A solid color background is preferable, and it should contrast with your image so that it doesn’t blend in or fade.
- Carat Weight – Alright, this is where the analogy breaks down, as we don’t measure file sizes in Carats. However, you’ll want to start with a photo with a higher resolution, as you will likely be cropping the image. Ideally, you shouldn’t need to resize the headshot from the original image to fit into the 48 x 48 pixel Profile Pic confines.
Please note that the images referenced in this post are current as of post date, and are subject to change.
