DEAR HARRIETTE: I need to provide a photo to an organization I’m joining, and I don’t know what to do. I am a woman of a certain age, and I much prefer my older pictures when I looked young and vibrant. I’m a professional woman, and I have worked very hard to achieve many goals, which didn’t leave too much time for glam or exercise. I’m about 40 pounds overweight. I look OK, but I don’t love the recent photos of me. The only professional photos I have are about 10 years old. I suppose I could wait for a few days and get another photo taken, but I fear I will hate capturing myself as I look today. Can I use an old photo of me for this organization? -- Reflection, Chicago
DEAR REFLECTION: I totally understand why you would be inclined to use an old photo, but I want to discourage you. This is because when people meet you, it is best for them to meet in person the same face they saw in a photo. If you look significantly different, that first interaction can be awkward. You should get a professional photo taken. You can ask the photographer to lightly retouch the photo to take away major blemishes while keeping your image consistent with who you are.