Perfect profile picture – Is there such a thing and how can I create it?
It’s may seem like an impossible task, but it’s actually very doable! Creating an amazing profile picture falls under a couple of best practices that we will detail in this lesson.
Why is it important though?
1st impression
A profile picture or a logo is the first thing that a user will see on your profile. So, we may agree that this speaks to the importance of creating an amazing first impression.
Gain new followers
The other place where your profile picture (or logo) shows up is in the feed. When a user sees your clip, he/she has the option to directly click follow (right there on the spot). Again note how important a great profile picture is to convince people to follow you and gain a larger audience.
Branding concerns
Your profile picture shows up on each and every video you post, so it’s a clear branding element. When designing your logo pay close attention to this detail – it shows up in a very small space! So, please make sure your profile picture is of high quality – the writing or any element inside must be easy to distinguish and read!
You may have noticed that the profile picture is circular. The good news is that you don’t need to upload the circular photo as the cropping is automatically done within the TikTok app itself.
Bonus – a 3rd option
TikTok platform also has a third option for your main branding and that is a video. So, you may have a profile photo, logo, or VIDEO. Although it seems like a good and fresh idea, please note that it’s not common practice for large successful accounts we’ve come across.
In our research, we found only a few large accounts that use a video instead of a profile picture or logo. One of the reasons may be that it distracts the attention of the viewer (and this is not the best thing while they see your clip). If you feel a profile video is a good option for your channel do not refrain from using it, but just bear in mind that it’s not common practice.
*** Now, let’s take each account type and discuss specifics…
Business account profile picture specifics
If you’re managing a business account you may use your logo as your profile picture. If you do so, please make sure your logo is simple, clear, and easy to read! Again the profile picture space is limited and you do not want to confuse your viewers.
A great example of a logo profile is @houseofhighlights. As you can see they make full use of the space. A simple black-and-white coloring and a customized “H” that clearly captures the essence of their username. The best thing about it is that when it’s in the feed you are still able to clearly understand it. If you want it to stand out more, you can add a border. This usually draws attention to the picture and centers the eye to the space of the profile picture.
Personal account profile picture specifics
If you’re growing a personal account you may use your face (or a picture of yourself). A face shot is always the best idea. A full body shot is a poor idea for a TikTok profile.
Why? Because there’s not enough space to show it! Use a simple face shot, focus on the emotion (the expression of your face) to capture the attention of the viewer. Make sure it’s of the highest quality possible (no blurring, no other mistakes).
EXAMPLES:
@igmusec – Here’s a BAD profile picture from which the users doesn’t really understand much
@jibrizy – Here’s a GOOD profile picture.
Pro tip: Make sure there’s enough contrast between your face and the background. It’s one of the best ways to highlight your face and make it really visible. Go for contrasting colors, have the best possible quality, and keep in mind it needs to show OK in the feed as well!
Aggregate account profile picture specifics
Growing an aggregate account leaves room for a lot of creativity. Most people choose to design a symbol that’s specific to their chosen niche/theme.
Let’s take a look at @comedycentral. As you can see, they’ve designed a logo that features a black and yellow coloring. It’s a symbol made of 2 letters of “C”.
It’s a very good choice of colors, it’s clean, it’s memorable, and it’s a great overall profile picture choice. It’s still readable in the feed (when the picture size is very small).
Pro Tip: Makes use of contrasting colors when creating your logo!
To conclude
If you own a profile account -> feature your face!
If you manage a business account -> feature your logo!
If you grow an aggregate account -> feature your symbol.
With all, focus on creativity and your message!
In any case:
- use contrasting colors
- use high-quality images
Keep in mind: The profile picture/logo/symbol needs to show well in small sizes. Take your time in creating it because it’s one of the most important branding elements on your account!
