LinkedIn has become the go-to platform for professionals to build their personal brand and make career connections. With over 722 million users worldwide, LinkedIn profiles have essentially replaced traditional resumes as the way people represent themselves professionally online.
Given how influential LinkedIn has become in hiring and recruitment, most users put a lot of thought into crafting their profile. From the profile photo to the work experience and skills listed, every element is strategic in presenting one’s personal brand.
One interesting trend that has emerged on LinkedIn is the use of black and white photos for profile pictures, instead of color photos. There are several potential reasons for this choice:
Makes the Profile Look More Professional
Black and white photos have a classic, timeless look that lends a sense of professionalism. Color photos can sometimes look too casual, like snapshots from a personal vacation. Black and white gives off an air of seriousness and makes the person look distinguished.
Black and White Photos Stand Out
Most LinkedIn profile photos are color, so a black and white photo is distinctive and eye-catching. When you’re quickly scrolling through search results or connections lists, the black and white photo will capture your attention.
Emphasizes Facial Features and Expressions
Black and white photos highlight contours, lighting and shadows on the face. This draws the viewer’s eye to facial features and expressions. It can be used to create a dramatic or pensive mood.
Hides Imperfections or Aging
Black and white images conceal flaws in skin or teeth that may be more noticeable in color. They can also minimize the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging. For those concerned about looking their best, black and white offers a smoothing effect.
Minimizes Background Distractions
With color photos, background environments and objects can be distracting. Colors pull the eye away from the main subject. Black and white unifies the photo and keeps the focus on the person.
Boosts Contrast
Removing color emphasizes contrast between light and dark areas of the photo. Greater contrast helps the profile picture pop against the low contrast blue LinkedIn background.
Makes Clothing and Styling Look Sharp
Crisp black and white improves the definition of shapes, patterns and textures in clothing and accessories. It makes style elements look clean, elegant and attractive.
Evokes Nostalgia
Black and white photography is reminiscent of iconic portraits through history. It taps into a sense of nostalgia for noteworthy figures like scientists, artists, authors, etc. Using it makes one feel part of that lineage.
Appears Artististic
Black and white is associated with fine art photography. Giving a profile photo a monochromatic look implies a sense of creative artistry.
Stands Out in Search Results
In LinkedIn’s search results, black and white thumbnails stand out among all the small color headshots. This increases the likelihood of someone clicking on your profile when browsing search listings.
Photo Won’t Become Dated
Black and white has an ageless quality, so the photo won’t start looking outdated as color photos might. It will maintain its sophisticated appearance as trends change over time.
Focuses Viewer on Identity
With no colors to distract or influence perceptions, black and white allows the essence of the person to shine through. It encourages the viewer to focus on facial features, expression, and personality.
Creates Intrigue
Black and white photos seem a bit mysterious, since people are accustomed to seeing color photos in digital spaces. This can spark viewers’ curiosity to learn more about the person in the intriguing photo.
Conclusion
Black and white LinkedIn photos allow professionals to put their best face forward in a timeless, artistic way. By drawing attention, minimizing imperfections, and creating intrigue, they help users make a strong first impression.
As LinkedIn has shifted from an optional networking tool to an essential platform for recruitment and career advancement, users have gotten more strategic with their profiles. A black and white photo can lend gravitas and elegance in just the right tone for a professional social media presence.
While the reasons will vary for each individual, the motivation for choosing black and white is ultimately the same – to give oneself an edge in standing out among the crowded competition. For those hoping to leverage LinkedIn for new opportunities, a black and white profile photo is one way to look sharp and get noticed.
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| Makes the Profile Look More Professional | Can seem overly formal or stuffy |
| Black and White Photos Stand Out | Overuse could make it less distinctive |
| Emphasizes Facial Features and Expressions | Less ability to show warmth through smile |
| Hides Imperfections or Aging | May seem like trying to conceal something |
| Minimizes Background Distractions | Eliminates context of work/life setting |
| Boosts Contrast | Harsh contrast could be unflattering |
| Makes Clothing and Styling Look Sharp | Harder to show off colorful accessories/style |
| Evokes Nostalgia | May come across old-fashioned or dated |
| Appears Artististic | Artistic pretense could seem pompous |
| Stands Out in Search Results | Distinctive look could become a trend |
| Photo Won’t Become Dated | Lacks authenticity of a candid shot |
| Focuses Viewer on Identity | Lacks warmth and personality of color photo |
| Creates Intrigue | Intrigue could seem calculated rather than genuine |
In conclusion, black and white LinkedIn photos have unique advantages but also some limitations to consider. Each person should weigh their own motivations and career goals to decide if it aligns with the image they want to project. While the trend is growing, a black and white head shot is still an intentional stylistic choice – one that can pay off but requires thoughtfulness in its execution.
