A new study has uncovered nine different types of profile photos that singletons tend to use – and what they convey about you to fellow daters.
Some singletons opt for 'casual poser' snaps, according to the researchers, while some prefer shots that show off their love for nature.
Others choose to show 'a bit of myself', while some even adopt a 'nothing to hide' pose – usually in skimpy outfits or topless.
'Your profile should first and foremost appeal to you and reflect who you are,' said Alejandro García Alamán, a psychologist at The Open University of Catalonia in Spain.
'If you want to add a touch of authenticity, you can include something slightly different that feels genuinely yours.'
For the study, the team analysed 1,000 real Tinder profiles based in Barcelona.
Their findings, published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, revealed that far from being unique, most users opt for one of a nine visual strategies.
Dating apps have become a major part of how people meet in Ireland, particularly among younger adults.
Recent data suggests that over 60% of Irish people aged 25–40 have used at least one dating app, reflecting a clear shift away from traditional meeting places like pubs or social circles towards digital platforms.
The typical user base skews young, with the majority of users falling between 18 and 35, and usage drops off significantly in older age groups.
In fact, broader research across Ireland and the UK shows that more than 80% of online daters are under 35, underlining just how youth-driven the space remains. Even among teenagers, usage is notable, with around 17% of Irish 15–18-year-olds reported to have used Tinder, showing how early digital dating behaviours now begin.
When you look more closely at demographics, the 25–34 age group dominates dating apps in Ireland, making up roughly 46–60% of users depending on the platform, followed by 18–24-year-olds at around 23–24%.
Older users are present but in much smaller numbers, with those over 45 typically making up less than 10% of users.
There is also a noticeable gender imbalance: data suggests men account for roughly 65–70% of dating app users in Ireland, compared to around 30–35% women.
In terms of intent, usage isn’t just for casual dating anymore—around 30% of users say they are looking for a serious relationship, and some estimates suggest nearly 4 in 10 Irish users have formed a long-term relationship through apps, showing their growing legitimacy.
Geographically, dating apps are most heavily used in urban areas like Dublin, Cork and Galway, where busy lifestyles and large populations make digital dating more practical.
Dublin in particular stands out as the country’s “online dating capital,” driven by a high concentration of young professionals and international residents. However, usage is now spreading across rural Ireland as well, helped by better connectivity and changing attitudes.
Apps like Tinder, Bumble and Hinge dominate the market, each attracting slightly different audiences—from casual dating to more relationship-focused users.
Overall, while there are signs of “dating app fatigue” in recent years, the numbers show that these platforms remain a central, and increasingly normal, part of modern dating in Ireland.
WHAT YOUR DATING APP PICTURES SAY ABOUT YOU
Half portrait: The most neutral and socially acceptable presentation
Casual poser: Make you seem more spontaneous and conveys informality/friendliness
Close up/ Selfie: Could indicate signs of concern about the body ageing
Full portrait: Especially common among straight women
Sunglasses: Functions as a form of protection and partial concealment
Nature lover: Conveys activity, health and a connection with nature
Nothing to hide: Could signal a desire for casual hookups
Screensaver: Likely to be older and minimizing body exposure
A bit of myself: Could be an attempt to conceal your overall appearance
Written by Louise Ducrocq
Louise is an expert content creator, and online author for Ireland's Classic Hits Radio. She's evolved in a few different fields, including mental health and travel, and is now excited to be part of the wonderful word of Radio.
