How to Take a Professional Photo for LinkedIn

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August 7, 2020
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19
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If you're in the middle of looking for a job, you want your Linkedin profile to be updated. Beyond having your job history up to date, having a nice professional profile picture can make a difference. In this article, we'll discuss the right way to take a headshot for your Linkedin profile photo and where to get it done.

What should I wear in my Linkedin profile picture?

Your Linkedin photo is likely the first impression a hiring manager or recruiter will see of you. Obviously, it's important to make a good impression, so be selective. Choosing the right image starts with what you look like in the photo.

Your outfit should be simple and neat. Avoid clothing that is too revealing. You don't want to show too much skin.

You'll want to dress in something that photographs well and makes you look like a professional. Make sure you aren't wearing anything with slogans or tears. Think of the type of outfit you would wear to an interview.

Where should I take my Linkedin profile picture?

Pick a spot that you will look natural in. You want your face to be the focus of the image, so avoid a busy background. Find a simple spot that you feel comfortable taking a few photos in. Use your camera to take some test shots of the area.

That way, you'll have a good idea of how it will look. While you want your face to fill most of the image, the background will show a bit.

Who should take my Linkedin profile picture?

Not everyone can afford to pay a photographer to take a professional headshot, but don't worry. There are a lot of people who can take your photo and make it look professional. If you know someone with a good camera, ask them to take your headshot for your profile photo.

Using a high-quality camera vs a smartphone can make a really big difference. Having a close friend take your profile image may help it look more natural.

If you do hire a person to take your headshots, research their reviews. Make sure it's a person you can trust and will feel comfortable with. There are a lot of ads on social media for photographers, so try checking there.

Companies will sometimes offer their employees a free headshot. If you have the opportunity to get a professional photo taken, don't pass it up. It's an easy and cheap way to update your Linkedin photo.

If you do decide to take one yourself, you can make it look better with sites like PhotoFeeler.

Tips for taking a great Linkedin profile photo

  • Practice your smile
  • Make sure your face is clean
  • Don't put too much makeup on your face
  • Look natural and approachable
  • Never use selfies as your Linkedin photo
  • Recent college graduates can use a professional graduation photo if the background is appropriate
  • Take a few different photos so you can pick the best one
  • Make your face the main part of the image

Before you upload your new profile photo, ask a friend how it looks. It's always a good idea to share it with someone and get some feedback.

It's important to use a recent headshot. Make sure you look like yourself in your professional photo.

Think about what you need in order to get your perfect photo. If you spend a little time planning it out, it will come out even better.

You want to appear comfortable in front of the camera, and even though taking a professional photo for a social networking site like Linkedin can be a bit of an ordeal if you've never done it before, being prepared will make it reasonably easy. Remember, getting it right could be the thing that gets you noticed online by your next employer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best practices for choosing attire for a LinkedIn profile photo?

For a LinkedIn profile photo, it's best to choose professional attire that aligns with your industry standards. Opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that don't distract from your face. Ensure your clothing is clean, well-fitted, and appropriate for the job role you're targeting. It's important to convey professionalism and confidence, so dress as you would for a job interview in your field.

How important is lighting when taking a professional photo for LinkedIn, and how can I optimize it?

Lighting is crucial for a professional LinkedIn photo as it can affect the quality and perception of your image. Natural light is the most flattering, so aim to take your photo near a window during the daytime. If natural light isn't available, use soft artificial lighting to avoid harsh shadows. The light should be in front of you, illuminating your face evenly, to highlight your features without creating glare.

Can I use a selfie as my LinkedIn profile picture, and if not, what are my alternatives?

It's not recommended to use a selfie for your LinkedIn profile picture because it may appear unprofessional. Instead, ask a friend or colleague to take your photo with a good quality camera or smartphone. Alternatively, you can set up a camera with a timer to capture a more professional-looking shot. Ensure the background is neutral and uncluttered, and the focus is on your face with a pleasant, approachable expression.

Dave Fano

Founder and CEO of Teal, Dave is a serial entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience building products & services to help people leverage technology and achieve more with less.

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