What Type of Pictures Should be Included in an Adoptive Parent Profile?

Q: What type of pictures should be included in an adoptive parent profile?

A: Aki Parker, the National Marketing and Design Associate at the North Carolina branch of the Independent Adoption Center, says: “For the majority of photos overall, it’s always beneficial to include photos showing positive interaction with children. Candid photos are even better for your adoptive parent profile. All photos don’t have to be candids, but having too many posed photos can make your profile somewhat static overall with the photos. Here are some extra tips to consider for the Main photo and Supporting photos for your adoptive parent profile:

• Main Photo (On the front Page/Beginning of your Profile): It’s great if the picture is taken outside, as natural light is best, and it should be from your head down to your chest for the framing of the photo. The impression of the person looking at the picture is that the photographer was no farther than an arms distance from you. Your eyes are the target…clear solid sparkling eye contact with the photographer. Think about having a warm smile & looking happy as well. For couples, show a connection with one another…touching one another: an arm around each other, a hand on a shoulder, a comfortable embrace, heads leaning into one another. Generally showing by body language that you are “in love”, deeply connected to, and happy to be with the person in the picture with you.
• Supporting Photos:
  • You should have supportive pictures that tell your story and show how exciting your lives are and show potential birthparents that a child will really fit into your lives.
  • Be sure to use candid photos if possible, avoiding looking directly at the camera and posing in your photos (with the exception of your main photo)
  • Avoid any blur or unclear photos and be sure that you are clearly visible in the photos. (You really want potential birthparents to really be able to see you well!
  • Photos need to show action, showing connection to animals and/or children (showing visually you are nurturing). In the supportive pictures avoid posed shots. (Could be you doing some type of sports with a child or even doing a fun hobby, etc.)
  • Please make sure that they are relatively current photos. Taken at least within the last year or so.
  • For our same sex couples or singles, it’s great to have a couple of photos of the opposite sex that will show their influence as well in your child’s life. (i.e. For males, show the female influences or for females, showing some male influences that will be in your child’s life.)”

This topic was discussed in more detail on the Creating a Family show: How to Prepare an Adoptive Parent Portfolio.