Avatar

Contents

• What is an avatar?
• Why do we need an avatar and where is it used?
• Using avatars in business accounts
• Sizes and graphic data for avatars
• What should not be placed on avatars

What is an avatar?

An avatar, or simply "ava," is an image or photograph used to identify a user on social networks, various services, and websites. This term can also include synonyms such as userpic (from English user picture) and avka. For example, our mascot on the "VKontakte" platform serves as an avatar for the company Unisender.

Why do we need an avatar and where is it used?

The main purpose of an avatar is to personalize the user and their profile. Having a photograph in the profile makes it easier to find a user or brand, which is especially relevant when it comes to acquaintances or business partners. However, avatars can also be used for other purposes:

• Attracting attention: Bright or unusual images make the account stand out from others and encourage users to take notice.
• Self-expression: Many choose images for their profile that reflect their interests and personality, such as cartoon characters or animals.
• Finding like-minded people: An avatar can demonstrate the user's hobbies, profession, or views.

Avatars are actively used on various internet platforms, such as:

• social networks
• messengers
• forums
• blogs
• gaming and streaming platforms
• search and operating systems
• various services

In most cases, it is recommended to use your own photograph for the avatar. For example, in Skype, you can take an instant photo using a webcam. However, for some services, user identification may not be as important, and standard images can be used.

Using avatars in business accounts

For business accounts, the avatar plays a key role, as it is not just an image, but a part of the overall image of the company. It should attract potential customers and match the brand's style. Here are some ideas for creating a business avatar:

• Studio photo: Use a quality image of your face that corresponds to the type of business. This will help emphasize expertise and attract the target audience.
• Logo or mascot: A logo helps to quickly identify the account, but it is important to remember the ban on advertising on avatars.
• Product image: For some businesses, using a product image as an avatar may be appropriate, especially if you do not yet have a corporate style.

It is important to avoid using abstract images that are not related to the company's activities and to ensure that the avatar aligns with the overall profile design.

Sizes and graphic data for avatars

Each platform has its own requirements for image sizes for avatars. Usually, JPG, GIF, and PNG formats are allowed. Here are some recommended sizes for various social networks:

It is also important to consider how the avatar will look in thumbnail form, as this version is displayed in chats and comments.

What should not be placed on avatars

Most resources prohibit the placement of images containing:

• violence or threats;
• pornography;
• profanity;
• any discrimination;
• drug promotion;
• Nazi symbols;
• commercial advertising.

It is also important to respect the rights of others and not use their images without consent. It is best to use your own photographs, images created by you, or business logos.

An avatar is a dynamic element that can change over time. Many users use avatars to express their political or social views, adding stickers or special images that reflect their support for events or movements.