Matching Profile Pictures: Show Your Connection with Style
Whether you met your partner while gaming or you simply want to showcase your friendship, matching profile pictures (PFPs) are a great way to express your connection. The key to matching PFPs is to have images that come from the same game or have a similar concept, while still allowing each person to have their individuality. Here’s everything you need to know about finding and using matching profile pictures on Discord, Steam, and more.
How to Find Matching PFPs
There are two main ways to have matching PFPs. You can either use a single image with two people or characters and crop it, or you can use two different images in the same art style that are clearly meant to go together.
There are Twitter accounts and Discord servers that provide resources for finding matching PFPs, but be cautious as some original artwork may lack proper attribution. When using fan art or original artwork from an artist, always give credit and ensure they are okay with you using their work as a PFP.
To avoid any issues with copyright, you can take your own screengrabs from games you play and use the art from there. Most in-game artwork, such as sprays, player icons, and emotes, is highly recognizable and copyright-friendly. You can also edit these screengrabs on your computer or phone to make them more personalized.
Five Ideas for Coordinated PFPs
If you’re matching PFPs with your duo, using images of the characters you usually play in your favorite game is a fitting choice. Characters that support or complement each other in-game can showcase your teamwork. Examples include Jett and Sage from VALORANT or Mercy and Pharah from Overwatch. Get creative with how you portray the characters.
If you play an MMO or RPG with your duo, using screengrabs of your in-game characters for matching PFPs adds a personal touch. Taking screengrabs with the same background or in the same area makes it clear that they are intended to match. Consider having your characters pose together, taking one picture and cropping it.
Fans of Pokémon can choose two different starter Pokémon or cover legendary Pokémon from the same generation. The possibilities are endless, and using matching PFPs from the same game adds extra personality.
Characters from Shows/Movies You’ve Seen Together
If you and your partner or friend have staple shows or movies you watch, this is a great opportunity for matching PFPs. Choose characters who interact a lot in the show and play off of facial expressions, funny moments, or popular scenes.
While some streaming services black out the screen when you try to take a screengrab, you can still find images through YouTube scene compilations or official releases. If two characters don’t have many interactions or good screengrabs, you can draw them yourself or commission an artist to do it. Commissioning an artist ensures a unique PFP and exclusivity.
Commission Independent Artists for Unique PFPs
Many independent artists on social media platforms excel in various art styles to match your vision. Supporting an independent artist guarantees a unique piece and avoids copyright issues. When working with an artist, make sure their style aligns with your vision by checking their portfolio or other work. Most artists are open to shaping your idea.
You can opt for drawings of existing characters in a similar pose or together in one photo, which you can later crop. Alternatively, provide the artist with a reference of yourself and your partner/friend, and they may draw you in a specific style or doing something together. The possibilities are endless when commissioning artists, so do your research to ensure satisfaction.
Matching Meme PFPs
Memes can be a fun option when you’re unsure what to choose for your PFP. Choose your favorite meme and use it as a matching PFP for a relatable and entertaining experience. Look for memes that involve multiple people or perspectives to ensure a successful match.
If you’re interested, here are some examples of matching PFPs for inspiration:
Remember to have fun with your matching PFPs and enjoy the coordinated style they bring to your group chats and gaming sessions!