How to Take a LinkedIn Headshot on Your Phone

By: Sarah Kenney and Hannah Baldus, CSC Office & Employer Relations Assistants

Your profile picture is one of the first things employers see when visiting your LinkedIn profile, so it is important to take a photo that shows your personality. You don’t need a fancy set up to take a great headshot, all you need is good lighting and your phone!  

Keep these tips in mind to take a stellar headshot and make your profile stand out to potential employers:  

1. Pick the Right Location and Lighting  

When picking your photo location, try to find a simple background with bright natural light. If you’re inside, look for a wall near a window. Avoid busy walls filled with pictures or decorations that may clutter the image. If you’re outside, look for a green space with little distractions such as cars, people, or signs. Avoid direct sunlight that may make your picture look blown out; try a shaded area or take your picture at a time when the sun is not shining directly on your face. 

Remember: Whatever location you choose, be sure to follow COVID-19 precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of others. 

2. Dress for Success  

When picking a top for your photo, think about your dream career and try to imagine what you’d wear to work. Dress for the career path you are looking to pursue. Avoid printed tops, as these can distract from you and create distortion in the image. If you want to wear jewelry, try to stick with something simple to ensure you are the focus.  

3. Set up your Camera  

Set up your phone or camera so your torso and head are centered in the frame. Make sure to not zoom in on the camera as this may lead to blurry or low-quality images. Tap on the screen to allow the lighting to focus. If you have portrait mode on your device, use it, as this will help ensure you are the focus of the picture. Portrait mode slightly blurs the background of the image which makes you stand out in the frame.  

4. Pick a Pose 

When picking a pose for your headshot, relax. The last thing you want to be is tense. Relax your arms and place them at your side or across your chest, whichever is more comfortable for you. Experiment with different poses and positions to give yourself options when choosing favorites later. Consider taking a few pictures facing the camera directly, and a few turned slightly at an angle.

5. Edit Some of Your Photos  

Once you’ve taken some pictures, go through them to find your favorites. Choose a picture that looks like you and shows your personality. Consider using a photo editing app to enhance the image. Stick to natural edits such as exposure, contrast, saturation, or shadows.  

6. Post!   

Pick one of the edited pictures to use on your LinkedIn profile and other platforms. Make sure to update your picture every few years to keep it current. 

Now that you have the perfect profile picture, are you ready to take the rest of your profile to the next level? The Career Services Center is here to help. Email us at [email protected] with a link to your profile, and within two business days we’ll provide feedback on how to make it the best it can be.