Your LinkedIn Profile Photo Doesn’t Have to Be “Professional”—It Just Has to Be TOTALLY Awesome ??

Hey there, LinkedIn fam! Let’s talk about that little square photo next to your name. You know, the one that’s supposed to scream “Hire me!” or “Work with me!” or “I’m the coolest person you’ll ever meet!” Spoiler alert: It doesn’t need to be a stiff, corporate headshot that makes you look like you’re auditioning for The Office. Nope. Your LinkedIn profile photo can—and should—be a total vibe. Here’s how to make it awesome, unique, and 100% YOU.

Step 1: Forget “Professional.” Aim for Epic.

You don’t need a suit, a fake smile, or a gray backdrop to look legit on LinkedIn. “Professional” is overrated—what matters is that your photo is awesome. Think about it: Would you rather connect with someone who looks like they’re having the time of their life or someone who looks like they just finished a tax audit? Exactly. Your photo should radiate energy, personality, and a little bit of “Whoa, I need to know this person.” So, ditch the idea that it has to be “professional” in the boring sense and lean into what makes you stand out.

Step 2: Make It YOU—Your Brand, Your Audience, Your Vibe.

Here’s the deal: Your LinkedIn photo isn’t just a pic—it’s your personal billboard. It’s gotta reflect who you are and what you’re about. Are you a creative rebel? A tech wizard? A coffee-obsessed entrepreneur? Whatever your thing is, let it shine. If your audience is edgy and artsy, maybe you’re rocking a leather jacket with neon lights behind you. If they’re laid-back and outdoorsy, maybe you’re grinning ear-to-ear on a hike. The trick is to ask: “Would my people—my clients, my followers, my tribe—see this and think, ‘Yep, that’s totally them’?” If the answer’s yes, you’re golden.

Step 3: Skip the Boring Corporate Headshot. Get Weird (in a Good Way).

Let’s be real—those cookie-cutter headshots with the forced smile and awkward tie are snooze-fests. Why blend in when you can pop off the screen? Get creative! Hold a prop that screams you—a paintbrush, a skateboard, a giant coffee mug. Strike a pose that’s anything but standard—lean against a wall, throw up a peace sign, or laugh like you just heard the best joke ever. Lighting matters too—golden hour is your BFF for that glowy, magical vibe. The goal? Make people stop scrolling and go, “Who is this legend?”

Step 4: Backgrounds Are Your Secret Weapon—Use Your City (Like I Use Sydney)!

Your backdrop isn’t just filler—it’s context, baby! Where you are says a ton about who you are. So, why not flex your local city vibes? Take it from me in Sydney—my home city is a goldmine for epic shots. I’m obsessed with Sydney Harbour—it’s all sparkling water and that perfect blue that screams “I’m living my best life!” Snag a shot with the Harbour Bridge in the background (bonus points if you catch it at sunset when it’s all golden and dramatic). Or hit up the Opera House—those funky white sails make you look like a creative genius just by standing there. Even Bondi Beach works if you’re vibing that laid-back, sun-soaked energy. Wherever you are—big city or small town—pick a spot that ties into your story. Maybe it’s where you hustle, dream, or just feel most alive. Just make sure it doesn’t steal the show—you’re still the star.

The Bottom Line: Have Fun With It!

Here’s the secret sauce: If you’re having a blast taking the photo, it’ll show. People can smell authenticity (and fun) from a mile away. So grab a friend, hit the streets, and experiment until you land on something that makes you go, “Hell yes, that’s ME.” Your LinkedIn profile photo isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out in the most awesome, YOU way possible.

Big shoutout to Lassie Zia ???? for always inspiring me to keep it real, and to all our incredible clients and followers—you’re the reason I get to geek out about this stuff. You rock my world, and I hope your next profile pic rocks LinkedIn’s!

Now, go snap something epic. Can’t wait to see it in my feed!