Professional Headshots For LinkedIn near clarksburg

Why A Professional Headshot For Linkedin Is Worth It.

Okay, be honest, when was the last time you updated your profile photo on your linkedin profile. Not since your buddy’s wedding? Yeah, time to take care of that. We’re in a world where first impressions are made online first.

What is a linkedin headshot?

First let’s define what we’re talking about. A headshot for linkedin is a professional portrait that is taken from the mid-chest up. I typically don’t include arms or hands in headshots unless they help show context.

These headshots have clean, professional lighting and typically solid color backdrops. Back in the day, backdrops were always grey or white. Those are great! But, don’t be shy to try out some colors for your headshots. I see things moving more towards branding these days and feel that color is a nice way to add some pop.

Attire is generally office appropriate. I often ask clients, “what do you typically wear when going to a business meeting or meeting clients face to face?”, That’s what you want to wear for your headshot. We want to show confidence, professionalism, but we also want to be approachable.

Why your linkedin photo matters

Your profile picture is nestled right at the top of your profile. It’s the first thing people see when they find you online. Studies show that profiles with professional pictures get 21 times more views and 36 times more messages. Pretty decent return on investment I think. So, whether you are networking, looking for your next role or just building your brand, your headshot should help you establish trust and credibility.

What makes a great linkedin headshot?

  1. Professional lighting. It’s easy to get this really wrong if you don’t understand how lighting can flatter or, distract from your photo.

  2. Clean backgrounds. Not saying you have to go all grey or white, what ever your background is, just make sure it’s clean and doesn’t distract from your face,

  3. Genuine Expressions. This is super important. We don’t you looking terrified or like a deer in the headlights. I will coach you on expression throughout the session. No “Say Cheese” or “Okay, smile” in this studio.

  4. Professional Attire. You want to look professional and polished so choose outfits that you feel amazing in that fit that mold. Please, don’t shove 5 dress shirts in backpack, men, looking at you here.

What should you wear for your linkedin headshot?

Dress for the job you want right? So like I mentioned above, you want to keep attire looking polished and professional. Here are some tips on to help you plan your outfits.

  1. Bring only what you feel amazing in. If you feel amazing, you’ll look amazing. So, if you have suck it in to button it, leave it at home. If we need to clamp it on the back, leave it home.

  2. Aim for solid colors that are not too close to your skin tone. Subtle patterns are okay, but nothing wild and loud.

  3. Stay away from logos or graphics that can date your headshots. If you have company logo or graphic that’s the exception

  4. Keep jewelry and make up to a minimum. We want to keep the focus on your face.

How much do linkedin headshots cost?

Cost is going to depend on location, experience of the photographer and packages offered. I have an a la carte style here so it’s a session fee of 200 and images are 175 each and include professional retouching, sizing in a wide and cropped format and in high and web resolution so your print and digital marketing needs are met. I do have an express session at 275 that is one image included, but it’s a 30 min quick session with one outfit and one backdrop. These are designed for the busy professional that needs to just get in and get out with a killer image.

Time to level up your profile?

Reach out below and too contact me. On my contact page you can shoot me an email with questions or to book a time. I also have a calendar there where you can book a day and time that works for you.

Portrait of a man with dark hair and a gray beard wearing a light blue shirt against a dark background.

About John Armato

John Armato is a professional headshot photographer based in Clarksburg, MD, and serving headshot clients throughout the Rockville, Bethesda, and Washington D.C. areas. John specializes in professional business and corporate headshots, acting headshots, realtor headshots, physician and healthcare headshots, branding headshots, and more.

No matter if you are looking for on-location or in-studio headshots, reach out to John today!