LinkedIn Marketing

Top 7 Professional LinkedIn Profile Picture Ideas

May 16, 2022
Top 7 Professional LinkedIn Profile Picture Ideas

LinkedIn is a fantastic place to look for new employment. So, you surely need an impressive photo. Thus our LinkedIn profile picture ideas will turn your account into an outstanding professional profile.

You most likely have a LinkedIn profile and use it to search for job openings and other professionals to collaborate with. Did you know a professional photo to use as your public profile picture can improve your chances of winning a new job or partnership?

This post will explain what makes a good profile photo, why it’s essential to have one, list some LinkedIn profile picture ideas, and help you to pick the perfect picture for showcasing your professionalism.

LinkedIn Profile Picture Ideas and headshot examples

Why Does a LinkedIn Profile Pictures Matter?

When you click on a LinkedIn profile, what makes the first impression? The picture, of course. It doesn’t matter how well-written a profile is or how many connections they have. If the photo doesn’t look credible, people might not take it seriously.  So, pay attention to our top professional LinkedIn profile picture ideas.

Your profile photo should make you look approachable, trustworthy, and competent— like someone people want to do business with. 

What Makes a Good LinkedIn Profile Picture?

Your LinkedIn profile photo is an integral aspect of your online professional identity. In fact, as per LinkedIn research, simply having a photo increases your profile’s visibility by 14 times. Still wondering if you need to go through our LinkedIn profile picture ideas?

This small circular picture is your first shot at creating a positive impression on clients, and it’s an integral part of your brand. Your best bet to achieve a good profile picture is to have a new headshot done by a professional photographer and keep in mind top LinkedIn profile picture ideas suggested from professionals.

You can use a photo you’ve taken yourself. However, it should be a close-up of your face so that people can see you clearly, and it should be taken against a simple background. The picture should also look like you— avoid using filters or editing the image too much, as this can create an unnatural look.

A photographer can ensure the lighting is appropriate and that you look at your best in the picture. Usually, having a photo professionally photographed costs anywhere between $200 and $400, but it’s well worth the investment if you’re trying to build your image and brand on LinkedIn. Moreover, a photographer can provide you with more accurate LinkedIn profile picture ideas.

What Makes a Good LinkedIn Profile Picture?
Best leave it to the professionals…

LinkedIn Profile Picture Dimensions

If you want your profile to look great and don’t get rejected, make sure it follows LinkedIn’s requirements and has the correct size. These are the latest LinkedIn recommendations for your profile photo size and dimensions:

Your LinkedIn profile photo size should be at least 400 by 400 pixels.

Images can scale up to a maximum of 4320 × 7680 pixels in profile photographs.

The maximum file size for profile photographs is 8 megabytes.

For profile images, LinkedIn allows PNG, JPG, and GIF files.

Although the requirements are simple, following them does not guarantee an incredible profile photo that will have prospective employees and clients filling your inbox.

LinkedIn Profile Picture Ideas and Dimensions

Expert Tips & Ideas for a Professional LinkedIn Profile Picture

Here are some helpful LinkedIn profile picture ideas and tips from experts for choosing a professional photo:

1: Use Recent Picture

Make sure to use a recent picture that looks like you. LinkedIn is not the place to use an old headshot or a shot from your college graduation.

2: Avoid Distracting Elements

In all LinkedIn profile picture ideas there’s one rule: Be only you! You should be the only subject with nothing else in the frame to take away from your image in your profile photo. That means no pets, kids, friends, etc. The exception here might be using a team photo, but usually, we would recommend keeping your profile photo a solo act.

Expert Tips for Choosing a Professional LinkedIn Profile Picture.

3: The Focus Should Be On Your Face

Experts say it’s okay for your profile picture’s background to be a little out of focus, but your facial features should be crystal clear, not blurry. Clarity is a pro tip in all LinkedIn profile picture ideas.

Additionally, If your face is too small in the frame, it will be difficult for viewers to see what you look like. Make sure your profile photo is cropped close enough so your expression is visible.

4: Dress Professionally

Your LinkedIn profile photo is a representation of your brand. You want to dress in clothing appropriate for the job you’re seeking or the business partners you’re aiming at attracting. For example, if you’re looking for a job in a more creative industry, you might dress more casually than someone seeking a job in a corporate setting. Still, all LinkedIn profile picture ideas suggest to keep it professional; this could also suggest that you’re clean-shaven or wearing suitable makeup or accessories.

5: Posture

Note that this is a professional photograph, so be confident and competent. According to experts, women, in particular, tend to tilt their heads in images, making them appear less confident. Maintaining a straight posture will give off the impression that you’re qualified and in control.

6: Smile!

Helpful LinkedIn profile picture ideas and tips from experts

Present yourself as someone people would want to associate and connect with. This means maintaining a friendly and confident appearance while avoiding a “too serious” expression. Your photographs should be vibrant and alive. That means no grumpy or vacant expressions.

7: Don’t Use An Image Of Your Company’s Product Or Logo

People would like to connect with you as a person, so don’t put your company’s logo on your profile unless it’s your company’s page. They’ll likely learn more about your products, services, and company through your corporate website once they’ve connected with you.

Key Takeaways  

Your profile photo is the first impression, and you must put your best foot forward. This means selecting a photo that appears trustworthy and competent, to make people to want to collaborate with you.

Here’s a recap of all LinkedIn profile picture ideas key points and how you can make it happen:

  • Don’t use an old picture of yourself as a profile picture.
  • Choose a solo photograph of yourself.
  • Make sure your facial features are visible in the photo.
  • Dress appropriately.
  • To look confident, sit or stand straight.
  • Smile! 
  • Unless it’s your company’s website or page, do not use its logo, be personable.
  • Follow the right size and dimensions.

Related articles:

Unforgettable LinkedIn Headline Examples That Get Attention

LinkedIn Video Specs: A Guide to LinkedIn Video Resolutions

3 Effective Methods To Boost Your Reach On LinkedIn

Let's stay in touch

Subscribe to our newsletter, and we will keep you updated on our newest game-changing features and special offers. Plus, you will be the first to know about the latest social media trends, tips, and tricks.