WhatsApp allows users to set a status and profile picture (DP) to personalize their accounts. The status is a short text update that disappears after 24 hours, while the DP is the photo next to your name in chats. Choosing an appropriate, creative status and DP is a great way to express your personality.
WhatsApp Status
The WhatsApp status feature allows users to share text, photos, videos and GIFs that disappear after 24 hours. It’s similar to the “Stories” format popularized by apps like Instagram and Snapchat.
Setting a Text Status
To set a text status in WhatsApp:
- Open WhatsApp and tap on your profile picture in the top left corner
- Tap “Status” > “My status”
- Type your status update in the text field. You can use up to 139 characters.
- Tap the check mark button to save your status
Your text status will now display under your profile name whenever you open WhatsApp. Friends and contacts will be able to view your status for 24 hours before it disappears.
Setting a Photo/Video Status
You can also set a photo or video as your WhatsApp status:
- Open the WhatsApp camera and take a new photo/video or select one from your phone’s gallery
- Edit the photo/video with text, stickers, drawing tools if desired
- Tap “Status” to set the photo/video as your new status update
The photo/video status will loop repeatedly for your contacts to view. Make sure the video is under 30 seconds.
Viewing Status Updates
To view status updates from your WhatsApp contacts:
- Tap on the status bar at the top of any WhatsApp chat
- Swipe left/right to view status updates from different contacts
- Tap on any status to view it full screen
- Double tap to like a status update
You can reply to status updates via private chat or group chat. Replies will be sent as normal messages outside of the status.
Status Privacy
You can control who can view your WhatsApp status updates:
- My Contacts – Your status is visible only to contacts saved in your phone’s address book
- My Contacts Except… – Block specific contacts from seeing your status
- Only Share With… – Restrict your status to only certain contacts
Go to WhatsApp Settings > Account > Privacy to manage your status privacy options.
WhatsApp Profile Picture (DP)
Your WhatsApp profile photo or DP appears next to your name in all your WhatsApp chats. It helps identify your account and adds a personal touch.
Setting a DP
To set or change your WhatsApp DP:
- Open WhatsApp and tap on your current profile picture
- Tap the camera icon to take a new photo or select a photo from your phone’s gallery
- Crop and confirm the photo you want to use
Your new profile photo will now display to all your WhatsApp contacts. There is no time limit on how long your DP stays active.
DP Guidelines
Keep the following WhatsApp DP guidelines in mind:
- Use a clear, high quality photo of yourself as the DP. Avoid group photos.
- Make sure the photo is appropriate and not offensive.
- Crop the photo to square dimensions otherwise it may be stretched/distorted.
- Your current DP is visible in all your WhatsApp groups as well.
Profile Photo Privacy
You can configure your WhatsApp privacy settings to control who can see your profile photo:
- Everyone – DP visible to all your contacts
- My Contacts – DP only visible to your contacts
- Nobody – Display default DP to everyone
Adjust your DP privacy under WhatsApp Settings > Account > Privacy.
WhatsApp Business Profile
WhatsApp Business users can set a business profile photo and description that displays to customers. This helps promote your brand identity.
Setting a Business Profile
Follow these steps to setup your business profile on WhatsApp:
- Open WhatsApp Business and tap the menu icon
- Tap Business Settings > Business Profile
- Add your business photo, name, description, email, address and other details
- Tap Save to update your business profile
This business profile will now be visible to your customers whenever they interact with your business account.
Using the Profile
A customized business profile on WhatsApp can help you:
- Build brand awareness
- Display your products/services
- List your business contact details
- Inspire trust in customers
Ensure your profile is kept up-to-date and reflects your brand image accurately.
Creative WhatsApp Status Ideas
Here are some creative ideas to help you stand out with your WhatsApp status updates:
Lyrical Statuses
Share cool song lyrics that you love as your status.
Quotes & Poems
Show off your literary side with inspiring quotes and poetic verses.
Jokes & Puns
Entertain your friends with funny jokes, puns and humorous status updates.
Travel Photos
Post scenic travel shots from your latest vacation.
Celebrations
Share celebratory photos from birthdays, festivals and occasions.
Achievements
Display major milestones like graduations, promotions and personal bests.
Special Days
Wish people on holidays like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day.
Trending Memes
Use viral memes and pop culture references for funny, relatable status updates.
DIY Arts & Crafts
Flaunt your creativity by posting images of your artwork and crafts projects.
Fitness Updates
Share your fitness journey and motivate others by posting workout selfies and videos.
WhatsApp DP Ideas
Make your WhatsApp profile stand out with these DP ideas:
Face Close-Up
Use a flattering close-up shot of your face as your profile photo.
Stylish Selfies
Click selfies wearing sunglasses or hats for a stylish look.
Nature Backgrounds
Pose in front of scenic backgrounds like lakes, mountains or flower fields.
Artistic Effects
Use photo editing apps to add cool filters, textures and effects to your DP.
Pop Culture
Set a profile photo with your favorite actors, artists, characters or celebrities.
Cartoon Version
Turn yourself into an animated cartoon character using special apps.
Pets & Animals
Show off your love for your pets by making your cat or dog your DP.
Favorite Hobbies
Display what you love doing like music, books, sports, travel, etc.
Funny Faces
Put a smile on your friends’ faces with hilarious, goofy facial expressions.
Conclusion
The WhatsApp status and profile photo allow you to express your unique personality. Update your status frequently with creative content that grabs attention. Set a high-quality, professional DP that presents the best version of yourself. Use WhatsApp’s privacy settings to control who can view your status and profile photo at any time.