Why you need a professional LinkedIn profile picture
In today’s digital world, your LinkedIn profile picture is often the first impression people will get of you professionally. Having a high-quality, professional headshot as your LinkedIn picture can make a strong positive impression and help you stand out from others in your industry. Here are some key reasons why investing in a professional LinkedIn photo is important:
- It makes your profile look more polished and put-together.
- It helps convey professionalism and attention to detail.
- It gives off an approachable and friendly vibe.
- It builds trust and credibility as people associate professional photos with being established in your field.
- It gets you more profile views which can lead to more connections and opportunities.
In contrast, having a low-quality, informal photo or no photo at all reflects poorly on you. People may wonder why you haven’t invested time in your profile or assume you lack professionalism. In short, a professional LinkedIn picture makes a strong first impression and can help advance your career.
How to take a professional LinkedIn photo
Taking a professional photo for LinkedIn doesn’t require a fancy studio or photographer. With some preparation and attention to detail, you can get great results with a basic digital camera or smart phone camera. Here are some tips:
- Invest in proper lighting. Natural lighting near a window is ideal. Avoid overhead lighting which can cast harsh shadows on your face.
- Use a clean, solid-colored background. A neutral tone works best so your face stands out.
- Dress professionally in typical work attire. A nice blouse or button-down shirt looks best.
- Style your hair neatly and avoid busy patterns or loud jewelry.
- Look directly into the camera with good posture and a pleasant facial expression.
- Take photos from chest level or slightly above. Avoid shooting from too low or high an angle.
- Use a camera or phone with at least 8MP resolution for crisp, high-quality photos.
- Take a lot of photos and review them carefully to choose the best option.
Position the camera on a tripod if possible for sharper shots. You can also recruit a helper to take the photos while you pose. Follow the tips above and take photos until you capture the perfect friendly, professional shot to use for your profile.
Where to get professional LinkedIn photos taken
If taking your own LinkedIn photo doesn’t yield great results, consider hiring a professional. Here are some options:
- LinkedIn photographers: There are professional photographers in many cities who specialize in LinkedIn portraits. Search online for “LinkedIn headshots near me”.
- Professional headshot photographers: Do a general search for professional headshot photographers in your area. Many focus on business or corporate headshots.
- General portrait photographers: Most professional portrait photographers can also take quality headshots suitable for LinkedIn.
- Online services: Websites like Snappr, HeadshotBooker, and Yelp Photographers let you easily book professional photographers.
When hiring a professional LinkedIn photographer, look for someone who has experience with business, corporate or professional portraits. Ask to see samples of their work to ensure it meets the standards you’re looking for.
Expect to pay $150-$300 per session for professional services. While not cheap, the high-quality photography is worth the investment for an important business portrait like your LinkedIn profile picture.
LinkedIn photo size and specs
To ensure your photo looks crisp and clear on LinkedIn, it must meet the proper file size and dimensions. Here are the requirements:
- File Format: .JPEG or .PNG
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1 (square photo)
- Image Size: 400 x 400 pixels minimum
- File Size: Under 8MB
When taking or choosing your photo, aim for a high-resolution image of at least 400 x 400 pixels. Scale down larger photos to 400×400. Using a square 1:1 aspect ratio photo also ensures your picture fits nicely in the circular LinkedIn profile photo template without being distorted or cropped.
LinkedIn profile photo tips
Beyond just having a professional photo, follow these additional tips for the best LinkedIn profile picture:
- Pick a friendly, approachable facial expression. You want to look confident yet accessible.
- Maintain good eye contact with the camera. This conveys confidence and trustworthiness.
- Smile lightly. A subtle, natural smile looks friendly and inviting.
- Avoid hats or sunglasses which cover too much of your face.
- Face forward towards the camera for the most flattering angle.
- Be alone in the photo. Group shots can be confusing.
- Keep it current. Update your photo every few years at minimum.
- Use color over black & white. Color photos are more approachable.
Follow these best practices, and your professional LinkedIn photo will help you make positive connections and elevate your profile.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality, professional profile photo is one of the best things you can do to enhance your LinkedIn presence. A professional headshot demonstrates polish and credibility that can help catch the eye of potential employers and connections. With some planning and preparation, you can get excellent photos on your own or by hiring an affordable local photographer. Use the tips provided to pick and format the perfect profile picture that puts your best face forward on LinkedIn.