How to Shoot Your Own Professional Headshot

When gearing up for job applications, much is said about perfecting your CV and interview skills. However, the significance of a polished professional headshot is often overlooked. This can sometimes be the key factor that determines your success or failure in your job hunt!

You might first consider it to be just a picture you place on LinkedIn, hoping recruiters will stumble upon it after reviewing your CV. However, it's the other way ;) Your face will form their initial impression when they click on your profile. No one wants to encounter a candidate with a poorly lit, awkwardly angled photo, or someone wearing a T-shirt while playing with their dog, right? This image isn't limited to LinkedIn – you'll also use it in work emails, personal emails accompanying your applications, social media, and personal branding efforts.

Before I guide you through the process of capturing your own professional headshot, let's explore some alternative methods for obtaining it and delve into a collection of advice, tips, and tricks I have to offer :)

Leverage Your Resources

If you're currently a student, take advantage of this opportunity! Your Career Hub is likely to offer this service, so go ahead and schedule an appointment. If you're employed, your company might provide it as well. Seize the chance at your earliest convenience to reduce the workload later. However, if you don't have access to these options, don't worry—I've got you covered with a DIY solution you can try from home. Check out the next tip ^^

I can't think of any university without Careers Hub :) remember to drop in

The Only Link You Need for This

When I ventured into taking my own photo, I scoured numerous videos and posts. However, I ultimately followed just one, and here's the link guys:

LINKEDIN HEADSHOT AT HOME | Professional Self Portrait Tips | lindsrosso

Let's break this video down into small pieces:

1. What You Need

A phone, a white shirt, a blazer, and a makeup app like Xingtu if you're not well-versed in makeup. Alternatively, light makeup works too (lipsticks and some foundation to make your skin smoother).

2. Set Up

Position your phone in an area with abundant white daylight. The background isn't that important as it can be blurred.

3. Snapping the Shot

Use your front camera, activate portrait mode, set a timer for 10 seconds, and radiate a confident smile.

4. Make the final retouch

Erase the background and replace it with a gray gradient background. Many free website have this function. But still, retaining the blurred background is also acceptable. Use the app to apply makeup if needed.

5. Apply the finished headshot

Change the photo to your Gmail, Outlook, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and other platforms to elevate the professionalism of your profile.

That's it for now guys, hope this helps! Drop me a comment if you have any questions~