Your professional headshot is often the first impression you make online.

It also shows you care about your online presence. It tells others you’re on top of your game. You want your headshot to match how you look now.

You wouldn’t use an old resume, right? So why use an old photo?

Keeping your headshot up to date is important for your professional image. An old photo can make you look less experienced or out of touch.

Updating your headshot is an easy way to show you’re serious about your profession. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in how others see you.

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The Importance of a Professional Headshot

A good headshot shows who you are and what you’re about. It shapes how people see you before they meet you.

Even though we say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” we still judge a person based on their profile picture on websites, LinkedIn, social media platforms, and even dating apps.

Your chances of getting noticed or being overlooked are determined within seconds of someone looking at your headshot.

Let’s go more in-depth on why you should put your best face forward.

Making a Strong First Impression

Your headshot is often the first thing people see when they look you up online.

To make a great first impression, you’ll want to look welcoming and approachable in your headshot.

Wear clothes that fit your job and industry.

Remember, people form opinions quickly. A good headshot can help you seem trustworthy and skilled right away.

Boosting Online Credibility and Professionalism

Keep it current to match your actual age and experience level.

An outdated photo can make you seem like you’re behind the times. It’s also very easy to spot a photo taken 10 years ago.

A professional headshot that’s up to date shows you mean business and take your career seriously.

It can make your LinkedIn profile stand out and catch the eye of potential employers or clients.

Use your headshot on all your work-related profiles. This includes LinkedIn, your company website, and your email signature.

A consistent image across platforms builds trust and recognition.

Reflect on Your Personality and Professionalism

Think about the image you want to project. Are you friendly and approachable? Serious and focused?

Needing to smile in headshots is a common misconception.

It should show a glimpse of who you are. If you’re a therapist, you should smile in your headshot to show you’re warm and inviting.

Wearing white can show you’re a trustworthy medical professional.

If you’re a mechanic or a tattoo artist with a more intense and stern personality, a powerful pose with your arms crossed and a smirk would be best.

A lawyer might want a more formal look, while a creative professional can choose something more casual.

When to Update Your Headshot Photo

Keeping your professional headshot current is key to making a great impression.

Regular updates mean your image will stay in sync with your career and appearance.

Significant Changes in Appearance

Have you made big changes to how you look? It’s time for a new headshot.

Weight loss or gain can alter your face shape. A fresh hairstyle or color can transform your look. Even growing facial hair or changing your makeup routine can make a difference.

An outdated headshot that doesn’t match your current look can confuse people when they meet you.

Career Advancements and Changes

Got a promotion? Changed jobs? It’s time to refresh your headshot.

Your image should reflect your new role and responsibilities. A more polished look can show you’ve moved up in your career.

Updating your headshot after a career change helps you fit in with your new industry.

Even if you’re in the same job, consider updating every 1-2 years. This keeps your image fresh and shows you’re actively engaged in your career.

Industry Standards and Trends

Different industries have different expectations for headshots. Keep an eye on what’s common in your field.

Are casual shots becoming more popular? Or is a formal look still the norm?

Trends in photography styles change too. Lighting, backgrounds, and poses that were popular a few years ago might look dated now.

An up-to-date headshot shows you’re current and aware of industry trends.

Pay attention to how leaders in your field present themselves. Your headshot should help you fit in while still standing out in a positive way.

Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Headshot Photos

Picking the right photographer for your headshot can make a big difference in how you look and feel in your photos.

Understanding Photography Styles

Every photographer has their own style.

Some prefer bright, airy shots. While others go for moody, dramatic looks.

Look at their past work to see if their style matches what you want.

When searching for a headshot photographer, look at their portfolio. They should have a consistent style across all of the headshot photos they’ve taken. If you truly like their style, proceed to book them.

Too often people hire the wrong photographer because they didn’t take the time to look at their work to see if they actually LIKE their work. Or they expect the photographer to capture and edit images outside of their photographic style.

Check if they have experience with your industry. Read reviews from past clients. Happy customers often mean good results.

Consider the photographer’s personality too. You want someone who makes you feel at ease during the shoot.

Studio vs. On-Location Sessions

Decide if you want studio shots or outdoor photos. Each has its pros and cons.

Studio Benefits:

Controlled lighting
No weather worries
Privacy

On-Location Perks:

Natural light
Unique backgrounds
More relaxed vibe

Some photographers offer both options. Ask about their setup if you’re not sure which to pick.

For studio shots, check out their equipment. Good lighting is key for flattering photos.

If you choose outdoor shots, ask about their backup plan for bad weather.

How to Prepare for Your Professional Headshot Session

Preparing for your headshot before your session helps you look and feel your best on photo day.

Let’s look at some important steps to take.

Selecting Appropriate Attire

Choose clothes that fit well and make you feel confident.

Solid colors often work best, as patterns can be distracting. Stick to classic styles that won’t look dated quickly.

For women, a blouse or blazer in a flattering color is a good choice. Men might opt for a dress shirt or suit jacket. Avoid very low necklines or busy patterns.

Bring a few outfit options to your shoot. This gives you and the photographer choices to find what looks best on camera.

Remember, your clothes should match your industry. A lawyer might dress more formally than a tech startup founder.

Hair and Makeup Considerations

Keep your hair neat and in a style you wear often so your photo looks like you on a typical day.

For makeup, aim for a natural look. Use products that control shine and even out skin tone. Avoid heavy foundation or bright lipstick.

Men may want to use a bit of powder to reduce shine. A light stubble or clean-shaven look often photographs well.

Practicing Poses and Facial Expressions

Before your shoot, practice your poses in a mirror.

Try different head tilts and shoulder positions to see what feels natural. Pinterest is a great place to look for inspiration.

A genuine smile looks best, so think of something that makes you happy in front of the camera.

Practice good posture. Stand or sit up straight with your shoulders back. This helps you look confident and professional.

Your photographer can help you find poses that flatter your features and match your personality.

The Role of Professional Headshots During Your Career

A good headshot can open doors and shape how people see you professionally. It’s an important part of your work image that affects many areas of your career.

Attracting Clients and Employers

A professional headshot helps you make a great first impression.

When clients or employers look you up, your photo is often the first thing they see.

A high-quality headshot shows you’re serious about your work and can make you look more trustworthy and skilled.

For job seekers, a good headshot on your resume or LinkedIn can catch an employer’s eye. It helps them put a face to your name and skills.

Clients are more likely to work with someone who looks professional and approachable in their photo. Your headshot can help you win business before you even meet in person.

Did You Know Headshots Can Be a Tax Write-Off?

Good news for professionals! Your headshot might be cheaper than you think.

If you’re self-employed or run a business, you can deduct the cost of your professional headshot as a business expense.

Why is this possible? The IRS sees headshots as a marketing tool.

They help you promote your work and brand. This makes them a valid business expense.

What can you deduct? Here’s a quick list:

Photographer fees
Makeup and hair styling for the shoot
Clothing bought just for the photo session
Printing costs for physical copies

Remember, you need to use the headshot for work purposes. Personal use doesn’t count!

Keep your receipts safe. You’ll need them when tax time rolls around. It’s smart to chat with a tax pro too. They can help you make sure you’re following all the rules.

Updating your headshot regularly is a win-win.

You’ll look current and professional, and you might save some cash on taxes. So next time you book a session, remember it’s not just good for your image – it’s on sale!

Best Practices for Displaying Your Headshot

Your headshot is a key part of your personal brand.

Let’s take a moment to learn how to use it wisely across different platforms. Here are some tips to make the most of your professional photo.

Consistency Across Various Platforms

Use the same headshot on all your professional profiles.

This helps people recognize you easily. Put your photo on LinkedIn, your website, and other work-related sites.

Don’t use selfies or casual pics for work stuff. Stick to your pro-shot.

This keeps your brand strong and shows you’re serious about your career.

Appropriate Sizes and Formats

Different sites need different image sizes.

Here’s a Quick Guide:

LinkedIn: 400×400 pixels
Facebook: 180×180 pixels
Twitter: 400×400 pixels
Website: Varies, but 1000×1000 pixels works well

(Note: Depending on when you’re reading this, the social media platform sizes might have changed.)

Save your headshot in JPG or PNG format. These work on most sites and look good.

Keep a high-quality version handy for printing or large displays.

Also, remember to crop your photo right. Your face should take up about 60% of the frame. This helps people see you clearly, even in small profile pics.

Keeping Your Headshot Current

Don’t use old photos that don’t match how you look now.

It can confuse people when they meet you in person. A current photo builds trust and shows you’re on top of your game.

Set a reminder to refresh your headshot regularly. This way, you won’t forget to update it.

When you get a new haircut or style change, it’s likely time for a new photo.

My Final Thoughts on Getting a New
Professional Headshot

Getting a new professional headshot is a smart move for your career. It shows you care about your image and are ready for new opportunities.

An updated headshot helps you look professional and gives people a true picture of who you are now.

Don’t let an old picture hold you back.

A new headshot will open doors and help you connect with others.

Your online presence matters. So go out and get a new headshot today. It’s a small step that can make a big difference in your success.

Why You Should Keep Your Headshot Photo Up To Date