Maezawa here, answering as well.
> The man said, “You look completely different from your profile photo! You look so much better in person, and honestly, if I’d only seen your profile, I wouldn’t have made an offer.”
Men who went on dates with women I had interviewed often told me, “The photos are way too flattering, but I guess that can’t be helped.”
There were even times when someone got angry and demanded his money back because the difference from the photo was too extreme…
Things have certainly changed. I think it would have been different if I had taken the photos myself. (Looks off into the distance.)
Anyway, enough of my humble bragging. (笑)
It’s probably a good thing that you look better in person. Human beings are creatures whose brains automatically adjust what they see.
Once you meet someone, if you like their personality or the way they carry themselves, your brain may make them look even better.
I think he said that because he liked you. I hope this turns into a good relationship.
> I’m starting to worry that my photos must be really awful…
If you log in to the members’ page with your password, you should see one photo of yourself displayed there. That’s the photo the men are seeing as well.
Take a look at it yourself. How do you think it turned out? If it really is that bad, you’ll want to do something about it.
Normally, photos can be retaken every six months, so for now, your options are:
Upload a photo you took yourself. (You can upload one from the members’ page.)
Edited photos won’t be very helpful as a reference, so I’d recommend uploading one taken with a proper camera.
Alternatively, you could send the photo to the club and ask them to replace your current one with it.
Heavily edited photos can leave men disappointed, so an unedited photo that still shows you at your best would be ideal.
Also, since it’s already been three months, they might approve a retake. It may be worth asking your registered branch, even if you don’t expect them to say yes.
I’m Saito, a column writer♪
Universe Club doesn’t retouch its photos, so in many cases, the person looks even better in real life.
Other dating clubs often heavily edit their photos, so you’re more likely to be disappointed when you meet in person.
So while it’s certainly a good idea to make an effort to look your best during the shoot, I don’t think you need to rush too much.
In fact, when you make an offer to a beautiful woman based on her photos and profile, she’ll often look even better in person.
(As for her personality, that’s another matter.)
Study how you can look your best in photos six months from now, and good luck with your next photo shoot!
