LinkedIn Headshots: Why a Professional Photo Makes All the Difference
Let’s be honest, most of us don’t love having our photo taken. And when it comes to updating your LinkedIn profile, it’s easy to leave that square photo alone for years, even if your hair’s changed three times since it was taken.
But here’s the thing: your LinkedIn photo is one of the first things people notice. Before they even read your headline, they see your face. That small image at the top of your profile is doing a lot of heavy lifting. Whether you're job hunting, networking, or building your personal brand, the right headshot helps you make a strong, trustworthy first impression.
So what makes a professional photo worth it? And how is it different from a snapshot taken by a friend - or a phone selfie with good lighting? Let’s break it down.
People Do Judge a Book by Its Cover
Like it or not, we all form impressions quickly. LinkedIn is full of professionals trying to stand out, and your photo plays a big role in how people perceive you.
A high-quality headshot says you take your career seriously. It shows that you’ve put some thought into how you present yourself. And more importantly, it helps you come across as approachable, competent, and confident.
On the flip side, a photo that’s blurry, poorly lit, overly casual, or ten years old can unintentionally send the wrong message. It might make someone pause and wonder, “Is this person up to date?” or “Are they active on here?” It’s not about being overly polished - it’s about being intentional.
Why DIY Often Falls Short
Phone cameras have come a long way, and with the right light and a little luck, you might get a decent photo. But there’s a big difference between a decent photo and one that really works for you.
Most people don’t know how to light their face well, or how to find angles that feel natural and flattering. It’s easy to end up with a photo where your expression feels a little stiff or unsure.
And then there’s the issue of background, framing, color, and image quality. LinkedIn automatically crops your photo into a circle, so the original image needs to be composed with that in mind. A professional photographer knows how to make sure everything works together - your posture, your outfit, your expression, the lighting, and even how the image looks at that tiny size.
What a Professional Headshot Says About You
A great LinkedIn photo isn’t about looking perfect. It’s about looking like yourself, but at your most confident and capable. When people see your photo, you want them to think, “They look friendly. They look like someone I’d want to work with.”
Here’s what a professional headshot communicates:
You take your work seriously
It shows that you care about your professional image and have invested in how you show up.You’re approachable
A natural, relaxed expression makes you seem like someone people can reach out to and connect with.You’re confident in your role
A well-composed, thoughtfully lit image gives the impression that you know what you’re doing - and that you’re ready to be seen.
You Don’t Need to Be Photogenic
This is one of the most common concerns I hear. “I’m not photogenic.” “I always look awkward in pictures.” “I hate being in front of the camera.”
You are not alone in feeling that way.
The truth is, looking good in a photo has very little to do with being “photogenic.” It’s about being guided through the process by someone who knows how to help you feel at ease. A good headshot photographer gives clear direction, notices the small things (like posture or eye placement), and knows how to pull out a real expression - one that feels like you on your best day.
A Good Headshot Can Open Doors
It’s amazing how many clients have told me that after updating their LinkedIn photo, they started getting more profile views, more connection requests, and even messages from recruiters or clients. People feel more confident reaching out when they feel like they already have a sense of who you are.
If you’re job searching, a current headshot can help you stand out in a crowded field. If you’re a business owner or consultant, it helps build trust before someone even clicks on your website. And if you’re climbing the ladder within your company, a polished photo reflects the level of professionalism you’re bringing to the table.
What to Expect From a LinkedIn Headshot Session
At N. Lalor Photography, I work with professionals across Fairfield County and Westchester who want a photo they feel proud to use, not just on LinkedIn, but across their entire digital presence.
Here’s what’s included in a standard headshot session at my Westport studio:
Prep guidance: You’ll receive guidance on what to wear, how to prepare, and what to expect so you feel confident and ready before the session even begins.
A relaxed session: I guide you through posing and expressions in a way that feels natural, not stiff or forced.
Same-day image selection: You’ll choose your favorite image right after the session, so there’s no back-and-forth or wondering what the final result will look like.
Professional retouching: I professionally retouch every selected image to remove distractions like stray hairs or blemishes, while keeping everything looking natural and true to you.
Fast turnaround: Your final image is delivered within 48 hours, high resolution and ready to upload.
Your LinkedIn profile is often your first impression - sometimes even before you get the chance to say a word. A professional headshot can help you feel more confident about how you show up, and it can signal to others that you’re someone worth paying attention to.
You don’t need to wait for a new job or a big career change. Your current self is worth showing up for.
If you’re ready for a photo that finally feels like you, I’d love to help. You can learn more or book your session at www.nlalorphotography.com, or reach out if you have questions.
