Professional Headshots

Tips For Taking A Professional Linkedin Headshot

Professional headshots are a type of portrait photography typically used for LinkedIn and websites. According to LinkedIn, profiles with headshots get 21 times more views than those without a photo. Additionally, a professional headshot doesn't require a professional photographer. Oftentimes, a friend with a camera or cellphone can take just as great of a photo.

Attributes of a Quality Professional Headshot

Your LinkedIn headshot should be of high quality, approachable in appearance, and include industry-appropriate attire. The standard headshot size is 400x400 pixels and not more than 8 MB.

Professional quality

• Use a recent headshot that has been taken within the last 3 years
• Take the photo straight on from your shoulders up with your face filling 60% of the frame

Approachable appearance

• Be mindful of your facial expression and try to appear relaxed and comfortable
• Smile and ensure that your face is clear in the photo

Industry-specific attire

• Wear tailored and well-fitting professional or business casual attire or industry-specific attire like a White Coat
• Avoid overdoing accessories and clothing that take focus away from your face

Plain background picture

• Ensure the lighting is soft and natural, and doesn't cast shadows across your face
• Consider using a campus building with the school logo
• Use a simple background (don’t have distractions or clutter in the background)
• Do not take selfies, use filters or crop yourself out of a group picture

Do's And Don'ts of Professional Headshots

• Do: Dress as you would for a job interview and ensure the picture is from the chest up.
• Do: Practice! This may seem silly, but before taking a professional headshot, practice your looks in a mirror to find your best headshot poses.
• Don't: Take a picture in lighting that is so bright it makes you squint or casts shadows over your face. However, if you are outside in the shade, make sure there is enough light to be able to clearly see your features.
• Don't: Use a photo where you have to crop people out. The photo should feature only you.

Email the Career Development Center at careerservices@mcphs.edu or make an appointment through the Student Success Hub to learn more.