How to choose a LinkedIn or CV photo

Start with where the portrait will appear

A LinkedIn profile, a personal portfolio and a printed CV have different surroundings. Open the destination before choosing your image: check the space, the background of the page and whether the photo will appear as a circle or a rectangle.

A CV photo is optional in many contexts and expectations differ. Follow the employer's application instructions and your intended market; do not assume that adding a photo improves every application. This guide helps you prepare one when you choose to include it.

Pick a current, recognisable expression

Choose an image someone could recognise when meeting you. Try a natural smile and a relaxed expression, then select the one that feels appropriate for your work. Your everyday glasses or headwear can be part of the portrait; check that reflections or deep shadows do not hide your eyes.

Wear clothing you would feel comfortable wearing when introducing yourself professionally. There is no single correct outfit for every profession. A distracting pattern or a large accessory can dominate a very small image, so review the actual thumbnail rather than judging only the full-size photo.

Check the small crop, not just the large photo

Start with a source that includes the whole head and shoulders. Prepare a square version for a profile image, then check the circular preview at the destination so the edge does not cut into your hair or chin. Keep your face easy to recognise without pushing it against the frame.

For a CV, insert the image at its intended size and inspect an exported PDF. Avoid stretching a square portrait into a tall box: crop proportionally or choose the portrait format. A huge high-resolution preview can hide the fact that the face becomes too small in the final layout.

Choose a background that supports the face

Try a restrained light neutral, a muted brand colour or a soft gradient. Check separation around the hair and shoulders; very similar colours can make those edges hard to see. You can compare backgrounds without changing the photographed expression or outfit.

If every candidate is blurry, heavily filtered or lit from behind, take a new source rather than forcing a crop. The at-home guide shows a repeatable phone setup. After uploading your finished portrait to LinkedIn, review LinkedIn's own crop and display before saving it.

Common questions