Top 5 situations to use a headshot photos
1. Professional profiles (LinkedIn, company bio pages)
Why it matters: Professional platforms are often the first place people meet you digitally. A clear, well-lit headshot signals competence and approachability and increases profile views and connection requests.
- Tip: Choose a simple background and wear what you’d wear to the office — neat, comfortable, and true to your role.
- Tip: Frame from the chest up, keep eye contact with the camera, and smile slightly to appear engaging but professional.
2. Personal branding and websites
Why it matters: Your website is your personal stage. Whether you’re a freelancer, speaker, coach, or small-business owner, a consistent headshot reinforces your brand identity across homepages, about pages, and press kits.
- Tip: Match the headshot style to your brand — bright and friendly for consumer-facing brands, more formal for corporate or legal professions.
- Tip: Provide both horizontal and vertical crops so the photo fits different website layouts without awkward cropping.
3. Press, media, and speaker bios
Why it matters: When media outlets, podcasts, or event organisers publish your bio, they’ll often use your headshot. A professional, high-resolution image ensures you look polished and consistent in coverage.
- Tip: Supply a high-resolution version (300 DPI) and a web-optimized copy to make life easy for journalists and organisers.
- Tip: Consider a second ‘personality’ headshot for more casual or promotional uses — same person, slightly different vibe.
4. Business cards and printed marketing materials
Why it matters: In face-to-face networking, printed materials still do the heavy lifting. Adding a headshot to a business card or brochure increases memorability and helps contacts recall who you are after the event.
- Tip: Use a tightly cropped headshot so the face reads clearly even at small print sizes.
- Tip: Keep the same headshot across digital and print to strengthen recognition.
5. Casting, acting, and talent profiles
Why it matters: In creative industries a headshot is essentially your visual résumé. Casting directors and talent agents rely on headshots to judge suitability quickly — a current, accurate photo is non-negotiable.
- Tip: Use a neutral expression and minimal retouching; the goal is an honest, current representation.
- Tip: Provide a few approved variations (different outfits or expressions) if the industry norms call for it.
Quick checklist for any headshot session
- Update your headshot every 2–3 years or after a significant style change.
- Prioritise natural lighting or soft studio lighting for flattering results.
- Keep makeup and grooming natural and camera-ready.
- Bring 2–3 outfit options and a small mirror for last-minute touch-ups.
Want a headshot that actually works for the places you’ll use it? Consider a short session focused on the exact crops and expressions you need — one session can supply profile, bio, and print-ready files with the same professional look.
