5 Tips for Better LinkedIn Portraits

Let’s face it—your LinkedIn headshot is your digital handshake. Whether you're job-hunting, networking, or building your brand in Frankfurt, a sharp portrait speaks volumes before you ever say a word. So how do you make sure your photo says "confident professional" and not "passport office horror"? Let’s walk through five easy, pro-approved tips that will take your LinkedIn headshot from forgettable to fantastic.

1. Follow the light—literally

Natural light is your best friend. Think big windows, overcast skies, or the soft early-morning glow. Harsh sunlight (especially around noon) casts unflattering shadows—especially under your eyes. In Frankfurt, I love using shaded corners of the Bankenviertel or softly lit coworking spaces.

2. Dress like the job you want (but make it modern)

Skip loud patterns. Solid, mid-tone colors like navy, charcoal, olive or burgundy tend to photograph beautifully. Want to look sharp and tech-savvy? A fitted black turtleneck and tailored blazer go a long way. And yes—press your shirt.

3. Master the micro-expression

We’ve all seen the forced-smile headshot. Instead, try the “squinch”: raise your lower eyelids just a bit while maintaining a soft smile. It communicates confidence and approachability without trying too hard. Practice in front of a mirror—it feels weird at first but looks amazing on camera.

4. It’s all in the angle

Angle your body 30 degrees away from the camera, then turn your face back toward it. This slight shift slims the body and adds dimension—far more flattering than a flat-on passport pose. Trust me, it makes a difference.

5. Keep it clean, not fake

Retouching is great for flyaways and lighting tweaks—but skip the plastic-skin look. A great photographer knows how to preserve your authenticity. LinkedIn users relate more to real people than to filtered avatars.

Want to get it done professionally? I offer fast-turnaround LinkedIn sessions in central Frankfurt. Let’s get your next opportunity clicking below!