Your profile picture is often the very first thing people see of you: on LinkedIn, your website, Instagram, WhatsApp or the “About me” page of your business. Before anyone reads a word you’ve written, they’ve already formed an impression based on that small photo.
So let me ask you something: when was the last time you updated yours?
5 signs it’s time for a new profile picture
- It’s more than two or three years old. If people are surprised when they meet you in person, your photo no longer does its job.
- It’s a cropped holiday photo. That half-visible arm on your shoulder isn’t fooling anyone 😅
- You use a different photo on every platform. Consistency makes you recognisable and builds trust.
- It doesn’t match your business today. You’ve grown, changed direction or launched something new, and your image should reflect that.
- You feel a little embarrassed every time you share it. That feeling alone is reason enough.
Why your profile picture matters for your business
People do business with people. Especially if you’re an entrepreneur, coach, consultant or freelancer, your face is part of your brand. A good profile picture helps potential clients feel they already know you a little, and that makes it much easier for them to reach out.
A professional, recent photo tells people you take your work seriously. An outdated or low-quality one can quietly send the opposite message, even if your work is excellent.
What makes a great profile picture?
- It looks like you, today. Not ten years ago, not over-edited, not “perfect”. Just you.
- Your face is clearly visible. Good light, sharp focus and a simple background that doesn’t compete with you.
- It reflects your personality and your brand. A relaxed smile, a thoughtful look, a bold colour: it should match the way you work and communicate.
- It feels natural. The best profile photos don’t look posed; they look like a real moment.
- It works in a small circle. Most platforms crop your photo very small, so a close, clean frame works best.
Selfie, AI or professional photo?
A good selfie is better than a bad professional photo, and AI tools can now generate headshots in seconds. But neither can capture what makes you, you: your real expression, your energy, the way you look when you’re talking about something you love.
A professional session also gives you more than one photo. You get a whole set of images for your website, social media and presentations, all consistent and all recognisably you.
“But I hate being photographed”
I hear this all the time, and I completely understand. Most of my clients say it before their session. That’s exactly why I work the way I do: no stiff poses, no forced smiles. I guide you step by step, we talk, we move, we laugh, and somewhere along the way you forget about the camera. That’s when the best photos happen.
How to prepare for your profile photo session
- Choose clothes you feel comfortable and confident in: solid colours work best.
- Get a good night’s sleep and drink plenty of water the day before.
- Keep your make-up and hair the way you normally wear them.
- Think about where you’ll use the photos, so we can create the right formats and styles.
- Bring an extra top for variety.
New profile pictures in Haarlem: two options
- For your business: the Essential Brand session, a 45-minute session with 15 edited photos and a commercial licence for your website, LinkedIn and social media. €245.
- For personal use: the Portrait Session, a 1-hour session with 20 edited photos for your profiles, CV or simply to keep. €215.
Prefer something timeless? Take a look at my black and white portraits.
Ready for a profile picture you’re proud of?
You don’t need to love being photographed to love your photos. Send me a message and let’s create a profile picture that looks like you, today.