Read this article before you add a headshot to your resume

Including a headshot on a resume is not always necessary, and in some cases, it may even be discouraged. However, there are certain professions where a headshot may be expected, and in those cases, it's important to ensure that the photograph is professional and high-quality.

Professions that may require a headshot on a resume include:

Actors and Models

For actors and models, a headshot is an essential part of their?portfolio. It's important for the headshot to be high-quality and to accurately represent the individual's appearance.

Business Professionals

In some countries, it's common for business professionals to include a headshot on their resume. This is particularly true in countries where the culture places a high value on appearance and first impressions, such as Japan or South Korea. In these cases, the headshot should be professional and conservative.

Creative Professionals

Creative professionals, such as?graphic designers, artists, and photographers, may choose to include a headshot on their resume to showcase their creativity and personality. In such cases, the headshot can be more artistic and expressive.

If you do choose to include a headshot on your resume, it's important to ensure that the photograph is professional and high-quality. Here are some tips for taking a professional headshot:

1. Hire a professional photographer

While it may be tempting to take a headshot yourself or have a friend take one, it's generally best to hire a professional photographer. A professional photographer will have the equipment and expertise needed to take a high-quality photograph that accurately represents your appearance.

2. Choose a professional and conservative look

If you're including a headshot on a resume for a business or corporate job, it's important to choose a professional and conservative look. This may include wearing a suit or business attire and keeping hair and makeup simple and natural. Avoid wearing distracting jewelry or accessories.

3. Use good lighting

Good lighting is essential for taking a high-quality headshot. Ideally, the photograph should be taken in natural light or with professional lighting equipment. Avoid taking photographs in harsh or uneven lighting.

4. Choose the right background

The background of the photograph should be simple and unobtrusive. Avoid busy or distracting backgrounds and opt for a neutral background such as a plain white or gray wall.

5. Pay attention to the composition

Composition is the arrangement of elements in a photograph. Pay attention to the composition of the headshot, including the framing of the photograph and the placement of your head and shoulders. The photograph should be framed so that your head and shoulders fill the frame.

6. Maintain a neutral expression

Avoid making facial expressions in the headshot. Instead, maintain a neutral expression with a relaxed and natural smile. Avoid looking too serious or too casual.

7. Retouch the photograph

Once the photograph has been taken, it's important to retouch the photograph to ensure that it looks polished and professional. This may include adjusting the brightness and contrast, removing blemishes or imperfections, and cropping the photograph to the right size.

Including a headshot on a resume can be a good way to showcase your appearance and personality, but it's important to ensure that the photograph is professional and high-quality. If you choose to include a headshot, consider hiring a professional photographer and following the tips above to ensure that your headshot looks polished and professional.