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📸 How to Nail Your LinkedIn Headshot (And Actually Attract the Right People)

  • Writer: Amanda Van Meter Burch
    Amanda Van Meter Burch
  • 3 days ago
  • 3 min read

Stylized blog graphic featuring three professional women in headshots with the title “How to Nail Your LinkedIn Headshot and Actually Attract the Right People.”

Let’s get real: people are checking you out on LinkedIn long before they ever shake your hand or send you an email. And what’s the first thing they see? Your face.


That tiny square photo has big energy. It’s your virtual handshake, your first impression, and your “Yes, I’m a professional you can trust” moment—all in one. So if you’re rocking a selfie from your cousin’s wedding in 2017 or a cropped vacation pic… we need to talk.




Professional woman with shoulder-length straight hair, wearing a black plaid blazer and soft smile, seated against a studio grey background.

Why Your LinkedIn Headshot Really Matters


According to LinkedIn, profiles with a professional photo get up to 21x more views and 36x more messages. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about credibility, memorability, and connecting with the right audience, whether you’re job hunting, attracting clients, or building your brand.




What Makes a Standout LinkedIn Headshot?


A scroll-stopping LinkedIn headshot isn’t about perfection—it’s about polish, personality, and purpose. Here's what makes the difference:


1. Clarity is Queen

Your face should be in sharp focus. No filters, no distractions, no "who took this on a potato?" energy.


2. Framing Matters

Aim for a crop from the chest up. Your face should fill about 60% of the frame—centered, confident, and clearly visible.


3. Expression Counts

Skip the stiff mugshot vibe. A soft smile and relaxed shoulders go a long way. You want to look like someone people want to work with.




Tips to Capture a Great Headshot (Even If You DIY)


If you’re taking your own or asking a friend for help, these steps will make a difference:


Wear clothing that represents your brand.Stick to flattering solids. No logos, loud patterns, or neon (unless neon is your brand—and even then, let’s chat).


Use natural light.Face a window for soft, even lighting. Avoid overhead lights or harsh sun that casts shadows.


Keep your background simple.Neutral wall, subtle textures, or soft blur. Nothing that competes with your face.


Use the back camera and a tripod if possible.Even a stack of books works in a pinch. Set your timer and check the frame before you shoot.


Take lots of photos.Change your angles slightly, adjust your smile, and relax between takes. You’ll thank yourself when you go to choose.




Alt text: Confident woman smiling in a white blazer and cross necklace, posing against a soft lavender background for a professional headshot.

The Case for Hiring a Pro


Now, I’m obviously a little biased, but here’s the truth:If you want to look like you mean business (without the stress of figuring it out alone), a professional headshot session is worth every penny. Here’s why:


✨ You get expert posing help (no more guessing what to do with your hands).✨ You’re lit like a magazine cover, not a DMV line.✨ Your images get lightly retouched—nothing fake, just finessed.✨ We tailor everything to your personal brand and goals.


Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn, launching a website, or stepping into a new career chapter, your image should reflect the real you—at your absolute best.




Common LinkedIn Photo Mistakes to Avoid


🚫 Outdated photos (if your hair changed three years ago, so should your headshot)

🚫 Blurry selfies or webcam grabs

🚫 Distracting backgrounds

🚫 Over-editing or heavy filters

🚫 Group photos cropped down to “just you”




Elegant older woman with short white hair and glasses, smiling in a vibrant blue suit jacket against a neutral studio backdrop.

How Often Should You Update?


Every 1–2 years or anytime your look significantly changes. If you want people to recognize you at the next conference, keep it current.




Ready for a Headshot That Actually Works?


If you're in Central Florida and looking for a headshot that makes people stop scrolling and start connecting, I’ve got you. I make the process easy, stress-free, and even (gasp!) fun.

Click Here to chat about what you need.

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