Is your profile picture portraying you in the best light?

When you're applying for a job, there's a good chance that employers are going to review your LinkedIn page or other social media accounts. If you want to make a great first impression that presents you as a true professional, you'll need to know how to take a good profile picture.

In this article, we'll provide some basic profile picture tips that you can use to ensure you have the perfect profile picture to bolster your online image.

Related reading: Should You Use LinkedIn Easy Apply?

How to take a good profile picture

  • Focus on a professional head and shoulders shot. Make sure that you're the only person in the photograph.

  • Wear formal or semi-formal attire. An overly casual photo won't project the right level of professionalism. In addition, choose complementary colors that work with your complexion.

  • Choose a photo resolution suitable for any electronic device.

  • Take the photo in a location that offers a simple, uncluttered background. A blank neutral background is preferred.

  • Choose soft light, preferably from a window or even an outside environment. Never use overhead lighting, as that can cast unwelcome shadows.

  • Use a full smile that includes your teeth. Don't frown or try to look too serious. The goal is to project competence and warmth.

  • Make direct eye contact with the camera.

  • Make sure your hands are nowhere near your face. For best results, keep them out of the picture altogether.

  • Use the rule of thirds for your profile picture. In other words, place yourself just slightly off dead center, which is much more interesting and natural.

  • Make sure your light source is in front of you – and if you have options for backgrounds, brighter is better.

  • Squint your eyes a little – multiple studies suggest that wide eyes convey fear, uncertainty, or vulnerability, whereas slightly squinted eyes embody confidence and a comforting presence. Picture Harrison Ford's irresistible squint, for example.

For more on the science behind the best profile pictures, visit Buffer's The Research & Science Behind Finding Your Best Profile Picture and the Association for Psychological Science's How Many Seconds to a First Impression?

Related reading: Get Noticed: Making Headhunters Come to You

Additional profile picture tips

  • Make sure that you use the same profile picture on all your social media platforms.

  • If you've changed your look – a new hairstyle or hair color, glasses instead of contact, etc., then it's time to take a new picture.

  • Consider taking a variety of shots and poses, then run them by trusted friends, family members, or colleagues (or anyone who won't point and giggle) and see which appeals to them.

  • Never use a selfie. Either use a tripod and timer to take your own picture or have a friend, family member, or professional photographer do it for you.

Related reading: Create a Personal Brand That Sets You Apart

So, what is the best profile picture?

When you want to make sure that you'll make the best possible impression on prospective employers, clients, and colleagues, it's vital to know how to take a good profile picture. By following the tips in this guide, you'll be well on your way to bolstering your online presence with a more compelling professional profile photo.

Need more advice to help you build your personal brand and improve your job search chances? Get your free resume review from our team of experts today!

This article was written by Joanna Ireland in 2021 and updated by Ken Chase in October 2024.

Recommended reading:

Related Articles: