LinkedIn Photo and Headshot Guide

Ok, ok - in the photo on the right I exaggerated a bit. Fewer wrinkles, drooping eyelid gone, age spots gone, slimmer, no circles under the eyes, etc., etc.

Every photographer knows such wishes and they come from men and women.

And of course I also do some kind of "optimization". You must not overdo it though. I my case there is no need at all. I  prefer the rough look.

Just recently, one of my clients switched her old LinkedIn profile photo for a new one. The old photo was  nice to look at, but that was about it.

Generally I like to ask and I also asked this customer:

"Do you want to look like the girl who serves the coffee, or the lady who runs the meeting?"

This may sound a bit disrespectful to the service staff and is definitely not meant that way, but my customer got the message. The photo I take of you is not for your partner or grandparents, but for your business, for your employers website or for your LinkedIn profile. You don't have to tilt your head nicely and smile like Miss World oder Mr. Universe.

This statement is also true: "You're allowed to show your leadership!"

And only two weeks after this customer had exchanged her profile photo on LinkedIn, she wrote me an enthusiastic mail and reported that she had never before received so many contact inquiries as after posting the new photo. 

People sense exactly whether a photo has been retouched to death or is simply honest.

Please use a recent photo and do not use a photo from the stone age.

Make sure your face makes up the majority of the photo.

Be alone in the photo. Unless you  work with animals, no pets allowed I’m afraid.

Think carefully about the impression you want to convey.

Look into the camera!

Avoid distracting backgrounds!

Avoid distracting clothing.

Wear what you wear to work or when you meet clients.

With you photographer discuss lighting and background, they have a great influence on your photos impact.

Meet your photographer before the shoot to get to know each other.

With me you can! If we get to know each other before your actual photo shoot, your photos will be better. Book your appointment here for our get to know meeting! If you like, with a cup of coffee or tea and your favorite cake.

No rule without exception. Call me or meet me for a personal conversation.

You will usually reach me from from 7 a.m. thru 10 p.m.  ☎️ +49 152 542 75 164

In the photos below you'll notice that your outfit and the background have a great influence on the photos impact. Just like the decision for color or black and white.