I can’t tell you how many times someone has inquired about business professional headshots and said, “I just need something for LinkedIn—nothing fancy.” But here’s the truth: your LinkedIn headshot might be the first impression you make on a future employer, collaborator, or client. It’s not just about looking polished—it’s about being intentional.
Whether you're job-hunting, networking, or simply keeping your digital presence up to date, that tiny square photo plays a huge role in how you're perceived.
Why Your LinkedIn Headshot Matters
LinkedIn has over 1 billion users, and people are browsing, searching, and screening every day. Studies have shown that profiles with a professional photo get 21x more views and 36x more messages. That’s not just a vanity metric—that’s opportunity.
And let’s be real: if someone Googles your name, your LinkedIn profile is likely one of the top results. So whether you're a seasoned exec or pivoting careers, a strong photo helps you feel confident and sets the right tone.
The Do’s and Don’ts of a Great LinkedIn Photo
✅ DO: Dress for the role you want
Your wardrobe should reflect the industry you’re in—or the one you’re aiming to break into. Think of your outfit as the visual headline. Are you polished and corporate? Creative and bold? Approachable and modern?
In our headshot sessions, I help clients choose outfits that speak to their strengths and casting type—even outside the acting world.
❌ DON’T: Use a cropped group photo (yes, even from a wedding)
I know you looked great at your cousin’s wedding—but if your LinkedIn photo is a cropped version of you in a tux or bridesmaid dress, that's a huge professional no-no! Just because you were dressed up doesn’t mean it translates professionally (and extra cringe points when there’s still a random hand on your shoulder from the person you cropped out).
✅ DO: Choose a photo that actually looks like you
LinkedIn isn’t the place for overly filtered selfies, glamorized portraits, or AI-generated headshots. I know those tools can feel tempting, especially when they promise a “professional look,” but they often create an uncanny, overly smoothed version of you that doesn’t quite feel real. Your photo should be recent and recognizable—think authentic and professional, not airbrushed, vague, or AI-crafted.
People want to connect with you, not a stylized version of you that doesn’t show up to the meeting.
❌ DON’T: Leave it blank (or use something random)
This might sound obvious, but plenty of people skip adding a photo because they don’t have one they like. Or worse—they upload a photo of a landscape, their dog, a logo, or something completely unrelated to their face. A missing or mismatched image makes your profile feel incomplete and unapproachable. It sends the message that you're either not active, not ready, or not taking your presence seriously.
LinkedIn is a professional platform, and people want to see who they’re connecting with.
My Best LinkedIn Headshot Tips (from behind the camera)
After years of shooting headshots, here’s what I’ve learned about what works:
- Relaxed confidence is key. A stiff photo feels, well... stiff. We’ll chat, laugh, and loosen up to get that natural expression.
- Color can help you stand out. Don’t be afraid of color in your wardrobe or background if it fits your personal brand.
- Update as you grow. If your look has changed—or your role has—refresh your photo to reflect who you are now, not who you were five years ago.
P.S. LinkedIn put together a great guide on how to create a good profile, and one of their top tips? Use a professional photo because it increases your credibility.
Invest in the Impression You’re Leaving
You don’t need to spend hours overthinking your profile photo—but you should invest in getting one that feels like you and represents your goals. Whether you're actively applying or just building credibility in your field, a great headshot opens doors before you even say a word.
If you're ready for an updated LinkedIn photo, I’d love to help you capture it. You can view our work here and our pricing here, or feel free to reach out with any questions.
