Make sure you stand out from the dating crowd - with a great photo . . .

Adding your photograph to your personal profile is a great way of getting noticed, but it's the one thing that many internet daters are reluctant to do. Many of the profiles you view will have photographs attached, but that may not convince you that you need to do the same.

People who don't post their photograph often say that they are too shy, or that they are worried about security. Remember that the whole point of internet dating is to attract people you wouldn't usually meet and letting them see what you look like is very different from giving out your address or telephone number. If you're worried that your photo may not do you justice - don't. The photo just gives people an idea of what you look like. It's not meant to be model portfolio or glossy magazine standard - and people who reject you based just on your picture probably aren't worth getting to know anyway.

Still doubtful? Here are some good reasons why you should post your photo:

1. Studies have shown that dating profiles without photos are more likely to get passed over than ones with good, clear photos attached to them.

2. Not posting a photo may lead other people to suspect you have something to hide.

3. A good photo is an attention-grabber. Although most people won't judge you solely on your photograph, it could be the thing that spurs them on to read the rest of your profile and get in touch.

Remember that your photograph doesn't have to be picture-perfect. It just needs to be clear and preferably one that doesn't include other people. In the long run, it could increase your chances of being contacted by other interested daters, giving you the opportunity to show them what you're like in real life!