Writer's Guide To Twitter > The Basics > Why can't I leave my userpic blank? I don't want people knowing what I look like.
To see an index of topics, please see the Main Twitter Guide For Writers page. To go back to my blog for kidlit/YA writers and illustrators, see Inkygirl. You can find me on Twitter at @inkyelbows (focus: craft & biz of writing) and @DebbieOhi (chatty replies, Twitter chats).
PLEASE NOTE: Twitter's interface has changed since I first created this FAQ, so some of the technical details and screenshots may differ slightly. The essential info remains the same.
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If you're uncomfortable with having people know what you look like, choose some other image. I've seen people use cartoon representations, for example, or favourite pets or book covers.
I strongly recommend AGAINST leaving your userpic blank, however (the default Twitter icon), because people may assume you're a spammer. I also find that an account with no user icon gives an impression of "I'm just here for a short while but may not stay if I don't like it."
Even if you ARE just trying out Twitter on a trial basis, I still recommend posting a userpic, else some people may not want to bother following you.
I also recommend have a realistic userpic that looks like you, rather than a representation. Why? Because people are more likely to see you as trustworthy, not having anything to hide. Also, keep in mind that when you're a Fabulously Famous Big-Name Author, your likeness is going to be plastered everywhere anyway.
Last updated on July 13, 2010 by Debbie Ridpath Ohi