They toast over drinks, joking about the worst dates they’ve been on. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun
—and that’s more than he expected from a random match.
Dating today feels like a weird mix of hope and habit. This photo story follows a guy moving through that awkward, familiar routine—scrolling late at night, getting ready with low expectations, showing up even though he’s not sure why. He’s one of the 3 in 10 U.S. adults who say they’ve used a dating app, according to Pew Research.
It’s not that he’s desperate. He’s just… tired of being let down, but still too curious to stop trying. When she shows up, there’s relief in the small win: she’s real, she’s smiling, and for once, the date doesn’t immediately suck.
Throughout the day, it’s the little things that matter: a shared laugh, a soft touch, the feeling that maybe—just maybe—this isn’t like all the others. In a world where over 45% of online daters say they feel frustrated with the process, moments of genuine connection feel rare and meaningful.
He doesn’t know if she’s “the one,” and honestly, that’s not even the goal anymore.It’s just nice to be seen, to be listened to, and to have someone walk beside you, even for a little while.
But when the date ends and the door closes, he’s back to the screen, back to the feed. The cigarette burns, the app refreshes, and the cycle resets. He’s like many others—63% of datingapp users say they still use the apps even when they’re not actively looking for a relationship. It’s not sad, really—just the new normal.
These moments, brief as they are, still leave something behind. A memory, a smile, a maybe. And in that in-between space—between goodbye and another hello—he keeps looking. Because even if it’s messy and uncertain, connection is still worth chasing.
He’s lying in bed, scrolling through dating apps in the dark.He pulls on his hoodie and checks the mirror. First dates are always weird. He’s nervous, but curious. Could be another flop… or maybe it’ll surprise him.He’s waiting on the corner, checking the time again. She said 8 pm. He’s wondering if she’ll ghost him like the last one. Every minute feels longer.She shows up with a wave and a smile. He exhales, half-relieved, half-excited. At least she’s real. That already puts her ahead of half the people he’s met.They laugh and high-five, a little awkward but sweet. It breaks the ice. He’s not sure what this is yet, but it feels easy. That’s a good start.She’s listening while he talks, and he can tell she’s really paying attention. It’s been a while since he felt like someone actually cared about what he had to say.They toast over drinks, joking about the worst dates they’ve been on. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun—and that’s more than he expected from a random match.They stop outside a wall, talking close. He leans in, not too far. She doesn’t move away. It’s not a kiss, but it’s something. Something good.She kisses him on the cheek before heading off. No promises, no pressure. Just a moment that leaves him smiling, wondering if they’ll text again later.He’s sitting in his car, phone in hand, reading back through their messages. Part of him wants to text her right away. Part of him waits.Later that night, he’s back on the app. Cigarette in hand, thumb scrolling. She’s still on his mind, but the search continues—just in case.
Aziza Ibragimova is an Uzbekistan native currently pursuing a BA in Digital Journalism with a concentration in criminology. She aspires to become an investigative journalist, using her skills to help solve cold cases and bring justice to unresolved mysteries.
Victoria Fernandez is a bilingual journalist at Florida International University who hopes to work in the sports industry. Fernandez works with the Miami Dolphins as part of the entertainment and events staff. She also works with Cox Media Group in promotions and activations. Fernandez will graduate with a bachelor's degree in digital communication & media with a concentration in broadcasting from the Lee Caplin School of Journalism & Media in Fall 2024.
Allen Galindo is a journalist at the illustrious Florida International University who is passionate about writing and pursuing the truth. Galindo is a writer for Caplin News and hopes to become an anchor or on field reporter for a news outlet. He enjoys shedding light on topics that impact diverse and marginalized communities. Galindo will graduate Fall 2024 from Lee Caplin School of Journalism and Media in digital media with a concentration on political science and international relations.
Alejandra Ranaudo is a junior majoring in Broadcast Journalism on a pre-law track. After her studies, she wishes to pursue a career as a political news reporter.
