Leveling Up Your Online Dating Profile | Portrait Session at The Gateway
ESTIMATED READ TIME: 8 MINUTES
If you’ve ever scrolled through a dating app and felt like most of the photos are the same (blurry car selfies, mirror gym shots, or group pics where you can’t even tell who’s who) you’re not alone. But standing out doesn’t mean putting on a show. It means being real, confident, and showing who you are. That’s exactly what happened when I met Troy for his online dating portrait session in Salt Lake City.
He had moved to Utah earlier this year. He told me he was ready to put down roots and update his dating profile with photos that felt like him. No stiff headshots or ultra-posed portraits, but approachable, warm, and honest. He wanted variety, energy, and a way to communicate something real about himself.
Why The Gateway Mall?
We chose The Gateway Mall as our shoot location. It’s a surprisingly flexible spot for photos: industrial walls, modern walkways, a few splashy murals, plus pockets of greenery tucked in here and there. That mix of urban textures and soft natural elements gave us a lot of options to create very different moods without hopping all over town.
When we showed up, the mall wasn’t officially open yet, which turned out to be a major win. No crowds. No tourists blocking walkways. Just us and open space, which made the session feel relaxed, private, and calm.
3-Outfit Session
Starting at $275
- Session typically lasts 60 minutes
- 30+ edited images
- $100 non-refundable deposit to book
- Remainder due the day before the session
- Travel fees applicable if location is 35+ miles from West Jordan, UT
5-Outfit Session
STarting at $350
- Session typically lasts 90 minutes
- 50+ edited images
- $100 non-refundable deposit to book
- Remainder due the day before the session
- Travel fees applicable if location is 35+ miles from West Jordan, UT
The Changing Tent Saves the Day
Because dating profile photoshoots involve multiple outfit changes, I always make sure I bring my pop-up changing tent. It’s one of my travel essentials for these sessions: quick to set up, totally private, and way more convenient than waiting to find an open restroom.
More Than Just a Photoshoot in Salt Lake City
One of my favorite things about dating-app photography is how much we talk. As we walked from spot to spot, he opened up about his experiences: what it’s like being new to the Utah dating scene and how tricky it feels to show personality in a few pictures. We laughed about dating expectations and how absurd some bios can be.
These conversations make a real difference. When you’re relaxed and chatting, you forget there’s a camera. That’s when natural expressions show up, and I get to capture them with high quality images as your professional photographer.
Very professional and friendly, the photo shoot was very fun and relaxed. Karisa makes sure that you’re getting the pictures that you want by making sure the poses and background are to your liking. Definitely book her if you need pictures done in Utah.
Troy M, GOOGLE REVIEW
Outfits & Visual Variety
Troy came with three looks so we could showcase different slices of who he is. For his casual look, we used shaded pathways and street art to create approachable, everyday-style portraits.
Then, for his second outfit, we leaned into stairs, red rocks, and city architecture. That look brought out something a little edgier but still natural and confident.
His final outfit was paired with some fun murals, casual seating areas, and city overlooks of The Gateway to create clean, elevated portraits.
If you’re thinking about what to wear for your own session, check out my full [outfit guide for dating portrait sessions]. That post breaks down how to pick clothes that photograph well and feel like you.
The Swing Moment
As we wrapped up, Troy stepped out of the tent to put on his shoes in that last outfit. Nearby was one of The Gateway’s hanging swings that attaches to the outdoor picnic tables. He sat down to tie his shoes, but just as he shifted, the swing went flying backward.
He caught himself. I caught him laughing. It was one of those perfect, unplanned moments where you both realize: this session isn’t just about looking good, it’s about being real, about rolling with the unexpected, and about having a little fun.
What I Focus on in Dating Profile Sessions
When I run a dating app portrait session, my goal is to help you come across as confident, genuine, and fully yourself. Here are a few ways I do that:
- Approachable energy. I use natural, friendly prompts and gently guide you so you’re not stiff or overly posed.
- Variety in looks & scenes. Different outfits + different backdrops = rich, multi-dimensional images.
- Realness over perfection. I want your personality in the frame, not just “the perfect smile.”
If you want the full strategy behind crafting a standout dating profile, I’ve laid it all out in my [Ultimate Guide to a Top-Tier Dating Profile].
Inclusive & Personalized Utah Dating App Photographer
I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients—people in their 20s to 50s; folks returning to the dating world; LGBTQ+ individuals; shy and outgoing—all across the Wasatch Front. I create a space where everyone feels seen, supported, and comfortable. If that sounds like what you need, I’d love to work with you.
Why Professional Dating Profile Photos Still Matter
Dating apps are fast. People scroll quickly. First impressions are made in seconds. High-quality, thoughtfully composed photos give you a serious advantage: more views, more matches, more conversations that feel genuine.
Over the years, clients have told me again and again how their profile photos transformed their online dating experience. Better photos = better matches. Better matches = more meaningful connections.
Ready to Transform Your Dating Profile Pictures?
If you’re ready to stop relying on selfies and upgrade to a thoughtful, personality-driven online dating portfolio, I’m here for you. Whether you’re in Salt Lake City, out on the Wasatch Front, or anywhere else in Utah, I offer fun, relaxed sessions tailored to real people.
Let’s make you look like you, but your best self. Book your online dating app portrait session today! You deserve profile photos that feel honest, confident, and swipe-worthy. Let’s make them together.
