What makes a great LinkedIn headshot (and why it matters)
Having your photo taken feels like a chore. Most people would rather be doing almost anything else, and that's completely normal.
But your LinkedIn photo is often your first handshake. People see it before they read a word of your profile, and a friendly, professional headshot helps them feel they know you before you've met.
So, let's talk about it. No jargon, just simple tips on what to wear, how to look natural and what happens in a session. As a LinkedIn headshot photographer in Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes, I do this every week, and it's easier than you think.
Is it time for a new headshot?
If any of this sound familiar, it might be:
Your look has changed. New hair, glasses or style? An outdated photo can feel like a mismatch when you meet someone in person or on video.
Your photo isn't really a headshot. Cropped group photos, low-resolution selfies and holiday snaps can weaken your personal brand.
Your career has moved on. A photo that suited an entry-level role may not suit a senior or client-facing one.
Your images don't match. Your LinkedIn, website, press mentions and speaker profiles look better when they all use the same photo.
You want a more polished profile. A complete, professional profile builds trust and tends to attract more attention.
What to wear: match your outfit to the background
A few simple rules work for every session:
Choose solid colours. They photograph cleaner than busy prints.
Avoid fine stripes and large logos. Tiny stripes can shimmer on screens.
Pick colours that contrast with your skin tone, so you don't look washed out under the lights.
Then think about the background, because your clothes need to stand out against it:
Background
Warm brick or textured wall
Clean white or studio
Natural or outdoor (beige or green)
Avoid
Orange, rust or tan tones that blend in, and stark white
All-white or pale pastels, which fade into the background
Earthy beige, khaki or olive, and busy florals that merge with leaves
Wear
Navy, charcoal or deep jewel tones
Solid mid-to-dark tones such as navy, black, burgundy or emerald. A bold pop of red looks sharp and confident
Strong solid colours such as navy, cobalt, burgundy or crisp white
Background, framing and expression: keep it natural
Background. Keep it simple and uncluttered, whether that's a studio backdrop or a tidy location. The aim is to keep the focus on you.
Framing. LinkedIn crops your photo small, so a head-and-shoulders shot works best. Your face needs to be clear even at thumbnail size.
Expression. This is what most people worry about. The best headshots look relaxed, not stiff. Think of someone you enjoy talking to and let the smile follow. I'll guide you, so you don't need to know what to do with your face.
How a session works
Here's a real example. Mark Spence is a returning client who booked an Executive Headshot with me at the Icon Centre: a 30-minute session with 3 retouched images and LinkedIn and PR licensing included.
It's simple:
A quick chat to settle in and talk about how you'd like to come across.
A few adjustments to lighting, posture and framing. I'll take care of that.
The shoot, with plenty of reassurance and direction.
Choosing and editing. I retouch your favourites and send them in a private online gallery.
Mark said: "Thank you Samantha, always good to work with you and great photos."
The LinkedIn Essential headshot: what's included and how to book
For something quick and simple, my LinkedIn Essential headshot is designed for just that. I offer it alongside Marianna's LinkedIn Essentials training in Northampton, and it includes:
A quick, relaxed session
2 retouched images
A quick turnaround
Here's what Marianna says about working together:
"Sam has been collaborating with me to provide headshots to local small business owners who attend my LinkedIn Essentials Training in Northampton.
As well as being a fantastic photographer, Sam can come into a training space and immediately make everyone who is having their headshot taken feel relaxed. Not everyone likes having their photo taken but with Sam behind the camera, this doesn't matter. They all come away feeling bright and breezy and ready with a new headshot for their profiles.
Thank you, Sam for doing what you do."
Marianna Avery, LinkedIn Essentials Training
You can book by joining Marianna's next LinkedIn Essentials session on 18 November. If you run a workshop, networking group or training day, I'm open to offering it at your event too.
For a longer one-to-one session, the Executive Headshot is £150 for 30 minutes, with 3 retouched images and LinkedIn and PR licensing included.
How often should you update your headshot?
A good rule is every one to two years, or sooner if something changes, such as a new role, a new look or a rebrand. People should recognise you when they meet you, and your photo should still look like you.
Book your LinkedIn Essential headshot
Are you eady for a photo you're happy to put on your profile?
Join the next LinkedIn Essential session on 18 November or message me about this event or book your individual Headshot session| sampeel@wellypictures.com | 07908 226 845.
Not sure which session is right for you? I'm always happy to hop on a quick call to talk through your options. My free 30-minute Strategy Chat is no jargon and no pressure.
