Did you know that your profile picture can make or break your chances of getting hired? Fortunately, you don’t need to hire a headshot photographer. We’ve put together some tips for taking professional profile pics at home.
A selfie won’t cut it here
Selfies work well for social media, but they don’t really cut in the workplace. Even if you’re really good at taking them, a selfie won’t necessarily give the impression that you’re serious about finding a job.
Instead of trying to do it yourself, ask a friend or family member to take your photograph for you. Remember, a good profile photo conveys:
- Professionalism
- Confidence
- Personality
Smile, this isn’t a passport photo
While it’s important to present yourself in a professional manner, there’s no reason not to smile. (In fact, not smiling could give the wrong impression.) You’re not taking photos for your passport or ID, so there’s no need to be super serious.
You can upload multiple photos to your Coople profile, so have fun and make the most of it. Show your future employer that you’re the right hire by showcasing an array of heartfelt, candid and dynamic moments.
Take centre stage in your professional profile picture
Holiday snapshots are great for Instagram, but hiring companies aren’t interested in where you vacationed last summer or what you did on the weekend.
Rather than pose in front of a well known landmark or tourist destination, choose a neutral background to take your headshot. In other words, make sure you’re the star of your professional profile picture.
5 Tips for taking professional headshots that pop
Taking the perfect headshot can feel a little overwhelming, especially in comparison to ‘point and shoot’ selfies. Keep these things in mind when taking your profile picture and you’re bound to end up with something great.
1. Get the tech right
Setting your phone to HDR (High Dynamic Range) ups the contrast between the lightest and darkest parts of the photo and results in great quality images that really stand out.
2. Make sure the lighting is good
If you decide to take your photo outside, stand with the sun behind you. For indoors, choose a naturally sunny or well lit room with big windows.
3. Dress for success
A suit is great depending on your industry and personal style. A plain white or grey shirt or t-shirt will also work. Steer clear of very bright colours or overly patterned material.
4. Pose like you mean it (but not too much)
While you obviously shouldn’t slouch, make sure you don’t come across as too stiff, either. Stand straight, with your shoulders back and your chin lifted slightly towards the camera. Relax.
5. The option to edit
The great thing about being alive in 2022 is that editing your profile photo is easy. Identify 3-5 of the images you like best and use a free photo editing tool online to adjust things like colour balance, lighting, cropping, etc.
Headshots get you hired
Writing a personal profile for your CV can definitely improve your chances of getting that job. You know what else can really help? A good headshot.
We’ll let you in on a not-so-well-kept secret here at Coople: 90% of previously employed Cooplers had a professional profile picture uploaded. We think that’s a pretty compelling argument for taking a great headshot of yourself, don’t you agree?
If you haven’t done so already, go ahead and download the Coople Jobs app and set up your profile. You can browse our current job openings on the app or on desktop. Here’s to your success, future Coopler!