How Do I Get a Headshot for LinkedIn?
If you're using LinkedIn to advance your career, build your network, or grow your brand, your profile photo plays a critical role. It’s often the first impression people have of you online, and it only takes seconds for someone to form an opinion based on your photo.
How do you get a headshot for LinkedIn that looks professional, approachable, and trustworthy? Hire a professional headshot photographer.
In this blog, we’ll tell you why investing in a professional headshot in Vancouver is worth it, how to prepare, and what to expect from the process.
Why You Need a Professional LinkedIn Headshot
Your photo is the most viewed part of your LinkedIn profile. According to LinkedIn, users with a high-quality headshot receive:
Up to 21 times more profile views
36 times more messages
Significantly more connection requests and job inquiries
This isn’t just about looking polished—it’s about standing out in your industry, building credibility, and communicating confidence at a glance.
Step 1: Invest in a Professional Headshot (Not a Selfie)
Even though smartphone cameras have improved, they still can't match the quality, lighting and expertise of a professional photographer. If you're serious about your brand, a LinkedIn headshot taken by a professional is one of the best investments you can make.
Why Go Pro?
Here are five reasons to skip the DIY and hire an expert:
1. Expert Lighting & Composition
Professional photographers will know how to use lighting and direction to flatter your features and ensure your face is evenly lit—no harsh shadows or blown-out highlights.
2. Guided Posing
A pro will help you pose naturally, avoid awkward angles, and bring out a confident, relaxed expression that works well on LinkedIn.
3. Background Options
Whether you prefer the look of a studio backdrop or a more natural setting, such as an office or outdoors, a professional will help you choose a background that aligns with your profession and goals.
4. High-Resolution, Editable Images
You'll receive crisp, high-resolution files that look great on LinkedIn, your website, business cards, and press features. Many photographers will also retouch your headshot to achieve a more polished finish.
5. Long-Term Value
A great headshot is a valuable asset, which can be used for:
LinkedIn
Company websites
Conference bios
Email signatures
Marketing materials
Step 2: Find the Right Headshot Photographer in Vancouver
Even though all photographers can take a picture, it doesn't mean that their skills are equal. For a LinkedIn Headshot, you'll benefit from someone who specializes in corporate headshots or professional branding portraits. Not weddings or architectural photography.
How to Choose the Right Photographer:
Review their portfolio: Look for consistency, clarity and variety of expressions.
Read reviews: Google and Yelp reviews provide valuable insights into client experiences.
Check their style: Are the photos clean, modern, and industry-appropriate?
Ask about packages: Find out what’s included (retouching, outfit changes, turnaround time).
Are you looking for a trusted name in professional headshots in Vancouver? Simon Rochfort Photography offers tailored headshot sessions that bring out your best, whether you’re a startup founder, finance professional, or job seeker.
Step 3: Prepare for Your Headshot Session
The proper preparation helps ensure you look and feel your best on camera.
What to Wear:
Stick to solid colours (avoid loud prints)
Bring layers (like a blazer or cardigan) for variety
Avoid shiny fabrics or distracting accessories
Dress in a way that reflects your industry, but still feels like you
Grooming Tips:
Schedule a haircut 2–3 days before your session
Get plenty of sleep the night before
Moisturize your skin and drink water to look fresh and rested
For makeup: aim for a clean, natural look that enhances your features
Step 4: What to Expect During Your Headshot Session
If you've chosen a professional who knows how to coach clients, the session will be smooth and enjoyable—even if you’re camera-shy.
During the Session:
Your photographer will help with posing and posture
Expect some light direction on head angle, chin position, and expression
You may shoot with multiple backdrops, lighting setups, or outfits
Relax—This Is About You
A great photographer will create a relaxing environment that allows your personality to shine through. The best headshots don’t just look good, they look authentic.
Step 5: Select and Upload Your Final LinkedIn Headshot
After your shoot, you'll review the proofs with your headshot photographer or in an online gallery. When choosing your final LinkedIn headshot, consider:
Is your smile a natural smile?
Does the background fit your brand?
Does the image project confidence and approachability?
Is it framed well, or is the height correct?
Upload Tips for LinkedIn:
Crop to square: LinkedIn profile images are displayed as circles, so leave some space around your head and shoulders to ensure a clean appearance.
Size matters: Use a high-res image—ideally 400x400 pixels or more.
Avoid filters: Stick to natural, colour-corrected tones that match real life.
Bonus: What Makes a Great LinkedIn Headshot?
✔ Clean, neutral background
✔ Natural, confident smile
✔ Sharp focus on the eyes
✔ Well-lit, high-resolution image
✔ Industry-appropriate clothing
Whether you’re a consultant, creative, or executive, your LinkedIn headshot should be an extension of your brand.
Book a Professional Headshot in Vancouver Today
At Simon Rochfort Photography, we specialize in professional headshots for LinkedIn, websites, and corporate profiles. Based in Vancouver, we offer:
✅ Quick and comfortable in-studio sessions
✅ Outdoor and on-location shoots
✅ Expert posing guidance
✅ Light retouching for a polished look
✅ Images optimized for LinkedIn and beyond
🎯 Ready to stand out with a modern, professional headshot?
👉 Book your LinkedIn headshot session now
📍 Serving professionals across Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, and the Lower Mainland
Final Thoughts
A professional headshot is more than just a profile picture; it’s a career asset. It conveys your confidence, fosters trust, and ensures you stand out in today’s fast-paced digital world.
Don’t settle for a cropped holiday or wedding photo. Invest in a headshot that reflects the professional you’ve worked hard to become.