Oh, vanity fair. We officially live in a world where the word 'selfie'  belongs in the Oxford dictionary. In fact, loosely translated, the French word for selfie is 'egoportrait' -- how appropriate! When it comes to online dating profiles, selfies make up a large portion of the photos uploaded as part of the package. Why? Because of control, of course. The person gets to decide the right angles (whether it's shot from above or straight across), the level of duck face (or fish face), whether they're smizing or staring off into the distance as they take the photo, etc. A selfie is never  just a selfie. There's a certain amount of planning that goes into taking that one shot. And let's not forget the well-thought-out caption that goes along with it. That said, it amazes me that despite all the planning, there are some details that selfie-enthusiasts forget to catch before they upload their photos to cyberspace. So here's a list of things to keep in mind before hitting the submit button. 1. Tidy up your room Sure, you've found the best angle to highlight your assets, and you've thrown an awesome filter on the photo of your pouty lips, but if the background of your selfie is that of your messy room, chances are that the attention you're seeking is actually going elsewhere. Take a few minutes to straighten out your duvet, put away the dirty clothes and remove the empty takeout containers. If all else fails, just angle your phone a little to the left (or the right), so that said mess doesn't creep into the photo. 2. Things to pay attention to when dealing with bathroom selfies Yes, the lighting may be great in the 'powder room' but if your toilet seat is photo-bombing your selfie, no amount of flattering light can help you. When bathroom-selfie-ing, make sure the bathtub curtain is drawn, the toilet seat is down, and and if possible, the towel is missing from your photo. In fact, big points go to those who are able to take selfies in the bathroom without us knowing you're in the bathroom. Folks, it's been done, and they're better off because of it! If you're taking a selfie in the mirror, make sure there's no dry water marks on it, and that all your products are put away -- unless of course, you're advertising for said products. In which case, carry on. 3. Duck face (or Fish face) There's nothing more off-putting. Just don't do it. 4. Mean-mugging Why are you uploading a photo where you're trying to look stern? I don't believe anyone is looking at your photo thinking, "Wow! she/he looks so mean, I just have to message her/him!" Give us a genuine smile. Come on! (You know, the smiley-face existed way before the selfie, and it's still around. There's something to be said about that.) Are you smiling, yet? :-) 5. Notes on looking off into the distance (while taking a selfie) Mysterious. Alluring. Curious. But before you go off and take one of these shots, make sure you ask yourself one question: Why am I doing this? Are you standing in front of a temple? Are you on a beach, having an enlightening moment? Are you really reflecting on the news of the day? Is something happening behind you, and you're drawing attention to it? There's no reason for you to take a selfie while staring off into the distance if you're in your room, in the bathroom, while making a duck face (or fish face), smizing, etc. And no, your ironic caption won't help you, either. You purposely took a photo of yourself doing this, and all I can think about is, "Why?" Remember, when it comes to taking good selfies, staging is key and reasoning is even more important. You're about to upload your photo to social media -- so check yourself before you wreck yourself. #egoportrait Image courtesy of cupppyuppycake/FlickrCC