Choosing the right background color for your LinkedIn profile picture is an important decision that can impact how others perceive you. Many people default to using a white or light-colored background, but is that really the best option? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using a white background for your LinkedIn photo and help you determine if it’s the right choice for portraying your personal brand.
The Popularity of White Backgrounds
White backgrounds are undeniably common for LinkedIn profiles. In fact, research has shown that up to 76% of LinkedIn users opt for either a white or very light-colored background. So if you choose white, you’re certainly not alone.
There are a few reasons why white backgrounds are so ubiquitous:
– Tradition – White backgrounds have long been the norm for professional headshots and resume photos. LinkedIn users are simply continuing this standard practice.
– Simplicity – A white backdrop keeps the focus on you instead of distracting backgrounds or colors. It’s a simple, classic choice.
– Professionalism – Crisp white can convey professionalism and competence. It’s also easy to keep looking clean.
– Lighting – White backgrounds photograph well with studio lighting equipment. The high contrast lights up the subject’s face.
The Benefits of White Backgrounds
Using a white or light background has some tangible benefits for your LinkedIn presence:
Focus on You
As mentioned, white backgrounds create separation between you and your surroundings, making sure all eyes are on you. This can help you stand out in the LinkedIn feed.
Appearance of Brightness
The bright white color schemes make your profile picture pop on the page. This can help you capture attention as users scroll through their feeds.
Neutrality
White is non-distracting and free of associations. It does not tie you to a particular industry, lifestyle, location, or aesthetic. This neutrality can have broad appeal.
Trustworthiness
Research suggests that lighter colors like white are associated with positive traits like honesty, purity, and optimism. White backgrounds can make you appear more sincere.
Cleanliness
White conveys sterile cleanliness. Seeing this professional backdrop can suggest you are detail-oriented and orderly.
Lighting
As mentioned, white backgrounds photograph extremely well. The high contrast lighting brings out facial features and makes you look vibrant.
Framing the Subject
With no background details to distract, the viewer’s eye settles nicely on you as the central focus. The white neatly frames you.
Simplicity
White backgrounds are simple, familiar, and easy to achieve. You don’t need an elaborate setting to pull off this classic look.
The Downsides of White Backgrounds
While popular, white backgrounds also come with some potential drawbacks:
Drabness
Too much white can appear drab or dull. Without color, some personalities don’t pop off the page.
Lack of Originality
White backgrounds are commonplace. They can blend in rather than standing out. Using a more creative backdrop may help you showcase your unique personal brand.
Coldness
Whiteness can come across as sterile or cold for some. Colors that are warmer, like light blue, may exude more approachability.
Lack of Context
With no setting details, you miss an opportunity to provide professional context through your background. Showcasing your office, work tools, or industry can add depth.
Bland Uniformity
Because white backgrounds are so ubiquitous, they can create a feeling of bland uniformity on LinkedIn. This lacks visual differentiation.
Glare
Unpleasant glare from the bright white backdrop can sometimes create slight overexposure in photos. Softer backgrounds may be more flattering.
Dings Imperfections
White tends to showcase dust, dents, wrinkles, and other imperfections. A more varied or textured background can hide flaws.
Perceived Withholding
To some, the white background can come across as intentionally concealing information about you. Sharing your environment builds openness.
Tips for Taking a Great Photo Against a White Background
If you do opt for a white background, follow these tips for taking a stellar LinkedIn profile photo:
Pick Solid Over Busy
Choose a solid white backdrop like a wall or curtain rather than a busy white setting like a tiled wall. This isolates you clearly against the clean backdrop.
Light It Up
Add plenty of diffused lighting, off to the sides, to avoid shadows. Reflectors can also brighten facial features. Proper lighting brings out you best.
Be Mindful of Glare
Glare causing overexposure is a risk with white. Position carefully and use matte finish backdrops to absorb light. Polarizing filters on cameras also cut glare.
Frame Tightly
Get in close to fill much of the frame with your upper body. This anchors you as the central focus against the white.
Perfect Posture
Sit up straight and square your shoulders. Proper posture projects professionalism and confidence.
Natural Expression
Warm, natural smiles come off as the most genuine. Avoid giving a forced or uncomfortable look.
Neckline Awareness
Pay attention to your neckline so it remains flattering and appropriate for a business profile picture.
Detail Your Look
Iron out wrinkles in your clothing, tidy your hair, clean your glasses, and remove lint or pet hair. Minding the details is key.
Alternative Background Color Options
Rather than defaulting to white, consider these professional background color alternatives for your LinkedIn photo:
Gray
Gray has a similar neutrality as white but looks slightly more sophisticated. Different shades of gray can exude subtle personalities.
Blue
Cooler tones like light or navy blue telegraph stability and dependability. Blue has broad appeal.
Green
For roles focused on nature, environment, health, or sustainability, green backdrops bring your field of work to life.
Black
For a bold, crisp, high-contrast look, choose a black backdrop. This commands attention while remaining classic.
Wood
Warm wood paneling or furniture can add approachability. This works across many professional settings.
Bookshelves
Bookcases reinforce knowledge and intellect. Display yours proudly if relevant to your personal brand.
Exposed Brick
Rustic exposed brick lends authenticity and originality. It’s warm and casual but still professional.
Industry-Relevant
When possible, pick colors and settings tied to your particular line of work. This builds context.
Background Color | Personality Traits Conveyed |
---|---|
White | Professional, light, neutral, clean |
Gray | Sophisticated, modern, neutral |
Blue | Dependable, stable, professional |
Black | Bold, sleek, dramatic |
Green | Natural, calm, environmentalist |
Wood | Warm, organic, inviting |
Brick | Original, earthy, casual professionalism |
Conclusion
So should you use a white background for your LinkedIn profile picture? The answer depends on the image you wish to convey and how it fits with your personal brand. White backgrounds have an undeniable popularity because they are simple, professional, and put the spotlight entirely on you. However, they also have potential downsides like sterility and lack of originality. Consider colors that better showcase your personality while still appearing polished. Or add environmental context with industry-relevant backdrops. With mindful styling choices and quality photography, you can use different colors or settings while still looking put-together and camera-ready. Regardless of your background color, focusing on lighting, expression, posture and framing goes a long way. Employ these best practices to cultivate a stunning LinkedIn profile photo that captures attention and leaves a positive professional impression.