Introduction
Learn the steps to do different poses for your LinkedIn profile photo with this comprehensive guide. Make a lasting first impression and boost your professional image.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of creating the perfect LinkedIn profile photo. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, our guide will help you make a powerful impact.
How to get the Right Pose
1. Confident stance
When taking your LinkedIn profile photo, the key is confidence. Stand up straight, shoulders back, and exude confidence. A confident stance immediately conveys professionalism and reliability.
2. Friendly Facial Expressions
T. Harv Eker is a multi-millionaire entrepreneur, author and public speaker that became popular with the book “Secrets of the Millionaire Mind.” Here are some tips that can be learned from browsing his profile:
People Love To See People Happy – T Harv Eker’s profile has multiple photos of him and other people smiling. Like it or not smiles are contagious. Try to add smiles in your profile as much as possible.
A warm and approachable smile can mean that you are more open and easy to connect with others professionally. Avoid expressions that look too formal or serious and opt for a friendly demeanor.
A great smile starts when your face is relaxed, so practice laughing and smiling after your relax. Practice in a mirror and experiment with different poses until you identify one that looks natural and authentic for you.
Before the photo is taken, try to think about something that genuinely makes you smile.
It could be a fond memory or a future aspiration. Some people imagine for example meeting a very good friend or playing with their pet. Other people imagine the feeling of going to their dream vacation. You could also have a relaxing time before the photo is taken by watching stand-up comedy for example.
Avoid a forced smile by relaxing the muscles on your face. A natural smile reaches your eyes and creates a warm, approachable expression.
3. Maintain Eye Contact
Ensure you make eye contact with the camera. This creates a connection with the viewer and portrays sincerity. Looking away or down can make you appear disinterested. Your headshot is a part of your personal branding. It conveys your personality and values.
4. Frame at Head and Shoulders
LinkedIn profile photos typically show your head and shoulders. Ensure the frame is centered on your face, with a bit of space above your head.
5. Try different body positions
5.1 Straight-on or Slightly Angled
A straight-on shot is a classic choice, but a slight angle can add depth and character to your photo. Experiment with what suits you best. An angle adds dimension to the photo. You could stay at a 45% angle to the camera and then bring your head around to look at the camera. This position makes you look more approachable and less confrontational.
5.2 Eye-Level Camera
Ask the photographer to position the camera at eye level. This angle is generally the most flattering and natural.
5.3 Avoid Overhead Shots
Avoid having the camera shoot from above, as this can create unflattering shadows and distort facial features.
5.4 Experiment with Angles
Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles to find the one that suits you best. Sometimes a slight tilt of the head can make all the difference. Here is an example of the popular Tony Robbins with over 7 million followers with the head tilted to the side. He is not smiling in his profile picture on left but he added on the profile background a photo with him smiling at an event.
5.5 Try sitting down on a chair
Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic is a popular book author and speaker and she has a profile photo standing down on a chair. This pose is relaxed and authentic.
6. Try different face expressions
Some people might use different face expressions for the photos that are full of energy because this might be part of their energy and personal brand.
Below are some examples of Linkedin profiles with big smiles:
Natalia Wiechowski has over 100.000 followers.
Jay Baer is a popular speaker on business growth and customer experience and he has over 40000 followers on Linkedin.
Conclusion
By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can pose for your LinkedIn profile photo with confidence, professionalism, and authenticity. You'll be well on your way to making a lasting, positive impression. If you want to get the best results for your Linkedin profile photo talk to a professional linkedin headshot photographer in UK , and your LinkedIn profile will become a key tool in your career.
F.A.Q. - Common questions
Q: What's the best outfit for a LinkedIn headshot?
Choose professional attire that aligns with your industry and the image you want to project.
Q: How do I maintain a natural expression in my photo?
Q: Is it worth hiring a professional headshot photographer for Linkedin photos?
Q: How long does a professional headshot session typically take?
Q: Should I smile in my LinkedIn headshot?
Q: Is it important to maintain eye contact with the camera?
Q: Can a photographer retouch my headshot if I want to improve it?
About Author
I am a headshot photographer with over 7 years of experience in editing and retouching using tools like Photoshop or Lightroom. Whether you're an actor, a performer, a company, or a professional, please do explore the website to see if you'd like us to work together.