Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to take our world by storm, and we’ve all seen plenty of headshot photos to prove it! Some AI-generated or AI-enhanced business headshots are good. Others are…well, let’s just say if you’re meeting up with someone at a local coffee shop, you may have no idea who they are – even if they’re standing right next to you.  

Did you know there’s a chance that an AI-generated headshot could hurt your chances of landing your next great role? Your photo is an opportunity to build your brand, so you want your professional headshot photo to make a positive first impression.  

In the world of talent recruiting and job hunting, there’s something refreshingly authentic about a photo that truly looks like you. We’d like to share some top tips to help you resonate and connect with talent recruiters and corporate hiring managers in today’s competitive hiring landscape. 

Be your own photographer and headshot generator! 

Since your profile picture is an important professional branding tool for your career, why take a risk in using an AI headshot generator? Think of this as your career portrait and a self-marketing tool. 

You can stage a professional photo shoot right in your own home and get a high-quality headshot without being an expert in photography.  

Here are five top tips for creating a professional headshot that will help your photo stand out to talent recruiters and hiring managers – and ensure your image reveals your true self both online and in real life. 

1. Use good posture in your photo shoot

Having good posture in your headshot photo isn’t just about looking well put together; it also projects confidence and professionalism. When you’re getting ready to take a headshot photo, make sure to straighten up, stretch your spine, pull your shoulders back, and face the camera straight on. 

Try to avoid tilting your head to one side because keeping your head straight naturally aligns with good posture and gives you a strong and friendly appearance. Sitting up straight or standing tall for your photo shows you’re approachable and confident, helping your photo make a positive impression.

2. Find the best light for photography – at home or in a studio

Whether you stage a headshot photo shoot yourself or hire a photographer who specializes in studio headshots, good lighting will create the difference between a great headshot with a defined and flattering contrast – versus one that belongs in the outtakes folder.  

When possible, use soft, natural light. Facing a window is ideal, provided there’s no bright sunlight on your face. Or choose evenly distributed indoor lighting that brightens your face without creating harsh highlights or hard shadows. 

Avoid strong overhead lights or standing with a bright window behind you, as these can leave you looking washed out or hidden in the shadows. Good lighting goes a long way in helping you look polished and ready for your next big opportunity. 

3. Choose a simple background for your professional headshot

The best headshot background does not compete with your image. This means sitting or standing in front of a plain wall that’s light in color, which gives a clean look that’s appealing in the corporate world. In most cases, especially on professional networking sites like LinkedIn, a neutral background is usually the safest bet.  

Some distinctive options can also work, depending on your personal brand, profession, or industry. For example, a dark background is more dramatic, provided you’re not wearing dark clothing, and if the lighting can distinguish between you and the background. And subtle wall textures can add depth without looking too busy.  

The overall goal is contrast. Your clothing and skin tone should stand out clearly from the background.

4. Wear professional clothing that features your personal branding

When choosing attire for your headshot photo, stick with clean, refined pieces and solid colors that keep the focus where it belongs – on you!  

Choose an outfit that reflects your professional style and the image you want to project for your chosen profession; however, it’s important to avoid overly busy patterns or distracting designs, as some fabrics are notorious for creating a blurred or distorted effect on camera. 

When in doubt, classic and timeless attire usually wins in professional headshots. A well-chosen outfit lets your personality shine while keeping your headshot looking professional, modern, and camera-ready. 

5. Capture your full head and shoulders in your photo

The perfect headshot photo includes your full face and shoulders, with your head centered in the frame and with enough space around you to create a balanced look. Avoid awkward cropping so that your photo doesn’t lead to dreaded questions like, “Where did the top of the head go?”  

This means no chopped-off foreheads, no blurry wedding photos from a decade ago, and no casual selfies or images where someone’s arm is making a casual guest appearance. Your headshot should be a standalone photo of you from the shoulders up, showcasing your personality, professionalism, and confidence.  

Important note: Different online networking platforms have recommended sizes for profile photos. Be sure to check the recommended photo dimensions for each so that your photo isn’t automatically cropped by the platform. 

Bonus Tip: Discover a future that’s picture-perfect for you! 

If you’re updating your LinkedIn headshot to a more professional and authentic look as you search for your next great role, you’ve landed in the right place. At Goodwin Recruiting, we have thousands of jobs posted on our job board with new and exciting positions added every day. 

Check out the Goodwin Recruiting job board for opportunities that could be a perfect match for you!