Take a quick look at your LinkedIn profile.
If your photo is a cropped group shot, taken on your phone, or something you grabbed in a rush before a meeting — you’re not alone. But it could be costing you more than you realise.
Your headshot is often the first impression someone gets of you. Before they read your experience, your skills, or anything else — they see your face.
And whether we like it or not, people make decisions quickly.
First impressions happen fast
When someone lands on your profile, they’re making a judgement within seconds.
Do you look approachable? Professional? Trustworthy?
A weak or outdated photo creates hesitation. A strong, natural headshot builds instant confidence.
If you’re unsure what makes a strong image, this guide on headshots vs portraits explains the difference and what works best for professional use.
The common mistakes that put people off
Most LinkedIn headshots fall into the same traps:
Cropped group photos
Blurry phone images
Harsh lighting or heavy shadows
Overly edited or unrealistic images
Outdated photos that don’t reflect how you look now
None of these immediately ruin your profile — but they do chip away at trust.
And when someone is deciding whether to contact you, small doubts matter.
You don’t need to look perfect — just real
A good headshot isn’t about looking like a model.
It’s about looking like yourself on a good day.
Clean light, a simple background, and a relaxed expression go a long way. You want someone to recognise you instantly when they meet you.
If you’re worried about feeling awkward in front of the camera, these posing tips for nervous individuals will give you a better idea of how relaxed the process actually is.
Why DIY photos often fall short
Phone cameras are good now — there’s no denying that.
But the difference isn’t just the camera. It’s the light, the angle, the environment, and how you’re guided through the process.
Most people don’t know how to position themselves, and that’s where things start to feel forced or unnatural.
If you want to understand how a proper session works, this guide on what to expect from a headshot session in Portsmouth walks you through it step by step.
A strong headshot builds trust before you speak
When someone sees a clear, natural, well-shot image, it removes friction.
They feel like they already have a sense of who you are.
That makes them more likely to connect, message, or enquire.
It’s a small detail that has a big impact — especially if you rely on LinkedIn for leads, networking, or visibility.
When should you update your headshot?
If your photo is more than a couple of years old, it’s probably time.
If you’ve changed your appearance, your role, or how you present yourself professionally — definitely time.
Or if you’ve never had a proper headshot done, that’s usually the biggest upgrade you can make.
Booking a LinkedIn headshot session
My Essential headshot sessions are £65 for 30 minutes. They’re designed to be simple, relaxed, and focused on getting you a strong, usable image. Learn more about my headshot and portrait services, browse examples in the portfolio, or get in touch to book a LinkedIn headshot session.
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