First impressions matter – and on LinkedIn, your profile photo is often the very first impression you make.
Before anyone reads your headline, skims your experience, or checks your recommendations, they see your face.
A professional photo might tick the right boxes, but if it lacks personality, it could leave potential clients, employers or collaborators feeling indifferent.
If you want your LinkedIn profile to stand out for all the right reasons, your photo needs more than polish – it needs life.
Many people still believe that a LinkedIn headshot should be stiff and formal, showing them in a business suit with a neutral expression.
While it is important to appear professional, today’s business world values authenticity just as much. People want to work with people they like and trust. A photo that shows a glimpse of your personality can start building that trust before a single word is exchanged.
Think about it this way: your photo is not just about how you look, but about how you make people feel.
A warm smile, relaxed posture, and friendly energy can make you appear approachable and confident. These subtle signals can influence whether someone chooses to connect with you, message you about an opportunity, or invite you to collaborate.
In short, personality in your photo can open doors.
Choosing the right style of photo depends on your industry and audience, but the common thread should always be authenticity.
If you are a creative professional, a slightly more relaxed and imaginative portrait might suit you. If you are in finance or law, you may still need a traditional look – but that does not mean you should appear stiff or unfriendly.
Even a classic headshot can show personality through genuine expression and thoughtful styling.
When I work with individuals and small businesses to create LinkedIn portraits, I always encourage them to think about how they want to be perceived.
Are you aiming for “friendly and reliable”, “dynamic and innovative”, or “experienced and approachable”? We can shape everything from your outfit to the background and lighting to match the impression you want to leave.
For example, a solopreneur building a personal brand might choose a photo taken outdoors in natural light, wearing something smart-casual and smiling warmly at the camera. This approach makes them look professional but also relatable, which is crucial for building trust online.
A charity leader might prefer a portrait that captures them in an environment connected to their work, showing passion and commitment alongside professionalism.
Lighting plays a big role too. Soft, natural lighting tends to be the most flattering and brings a warmth to the image that artificial lighting can sometimes lose.
A great photographer will help you find the right light, pose, and expression so that you feel relaxed – because when you feel relaxed, your personality shines through naturally.
It’s also important to consider what not to do.
Cropping yourself out of a group photo, using a holiday snap, or uploading a poor-quality selfie are common mistakes. These types of images can seem careless or unprofessional.
Even if you think they show more of your “true self”, they can send the wrong message. The goal is to look both genuine and polished – showing you have made the effort, but without appearing artificial.
Investing in a professional portrait might feel like a luxury, but it is one of the smartest moves you can make for your personal brand. A great LinkedIn photo works quietly in the background every day, creating positive first impressions while you focus on building your career or growing your business.
If your current LinkedIn photo feels a bit tired, or you know it doesn’t reflect who you are today, it might be time for a refresh.
Think about how you would like to be seen by your ideal clients, colleagues, or employers. Then, work with a photographer who understands how to bring out your natural energy in a way that suits your brand.
At Bear Content, I specialise in creating portraits that blend professionalism with personality, helping individuals, small businesses and charities around Cranleigh and the Surrey Hills stand out on LinkedIn and beyond.
If you are ready to update your LinkedIn profile with a photo that truly represents you, I would love to help.
Get in touch today to book your session and let’s show the world the best version of you.
