The New Rules of Modern Headshots for Digital Professionals

Discover how modern headshots break free from stiff, outdated portraits to create authentic professional images that actually connect with your audience.

Today’s headshots have come a long way from the stuffy images of yesteryear. Instead of trying to blend in, modern headshots focus on highlighting what makes you stand out. Employers and potential clients value authenticity over highly posed portraits. It’s time to let your personality shine through with natural facial expressions and an outfit that makes you feel comfortable.

A high-quality headshot is necessary for navigating the corporate world and building a personal brand. And with so many different types of headshots to choose from, you don’t have to sacrifice professionalism to get a headshot you love.

Here’s how to take a headshot that feels fresh and contemporary.

TL;DR: Modern headshots should feel sleek, clean, and authentic to you. Good lighting, framing, and styling can help you take a great headshot without professional equipment or guidance.

What defines a modern headshot today

A modern headshot balances professionalism with approachability. Instead of feeling confined to specific poses, backgrounds, or expressions, you can experiment with different looks to see what feels most natural for you.

Here’s how modern corporate headshots compare to the professional portraits of the past.

Modern headshots adapt seamlessly to different contexts. They work just as well on professional websites as they do on social media platforms like LinkedIn. These headshots also help you put your best foot forward for speaking events and press coverage.

Why authenticity and expression matter

When we see a picture of someone for the first time, we often make snap judgments without realizing it. It’s easy to develop subconscious opinions about someone’s trustworthiness or competence based only on their headshot, and scientific research has found that first impressions have a subtle effect on the way we perceive attractiveness.

To make a great first impression, focus on using authentic expressions—opt for genuine smiles, relaxed body language, and direct eye contact rather than a forced serious look. Being yourself in your headshot creates an instant connection with the viewer, giving them a sneak peek of how great you are to work with.

Capturing an authentic expression is sometimes easier said than done, especially if you’re not used to being in front of the camera. Try these tips for a natural expression in your headshot:

• Don’t hold your breath! Taking deep breaths will help you relax.
• Think of a pleasant or funny memory to make smiles more genuine.
• Focus on relaxing your shoulders. When you feel tense, your shoulders will creep up to your ears.
• Move around between shots during a long session so you don’t get stiff.

The role of lighting, background, and framing

The right lighting, background, and framing will accentuate your features and set the vibe for your headshot. Slightly adjusting any of these three elements can completely change the look and feel of your headshots.

Soft, clean lighting is the easiest way to flatter your features and create a headshot that works in any context. When you consider lighting, remember:

• Harsh or overly dramatic lighting can create awkward shadows and detract from your facial expression.
• For the most flattering light, professional photographers often take headshots outside or near a window during the “golden hour”—the time just after sunrise or before sunset when light is the softest. 
• If you don’t have good natural light, try positioning an artificial light just above your face with a reflector or light-colored surface below your face to achieve the same effect.

When it comes to backgrounds, you have plenty of great options to choose from—the key is to complement your face, not detract from it. Background tips include:

• A clean, neutral wall is a go-to, but you can also use subtle textures or even a blurred outdoor environment to add more interest. 
• It all depends on context: if you’re in healthcare, law, or finance, you might opt for a simple background to build trust, while creatives might go for something more vibrant and eye-catching.

The most versatile framing option is a headshot with your mid-chest and shoulders visible. When framing, remember:

• If the camera’s too close to your face, the headshot can feel too intense.
• If the camera’s too far away, it can feel awkward or impersonal.

How to choose wardrobe and style for a fresh look

When choosing clothes for your headshot session, shoot for a balance between comfort and professionalism. You’re no longer limited to wearing a suit for business headshots—in fact, only 3% of Americans still wear business professional clothes to work. You have plenty of professional clothing options that look great on camera. Let’s break down wardrobe options by industry.

• Creative professionals: To stand out from the crowd, use interesting textures, patterns, or accent colors that really pop on camera. Clothing should fit well, be comfortable, and allow for movement—think smart casual pieces like button-down shirts or sweaters.
• Corporate executives: For corporate leaders, headshots need to convey trust and expertise. To do this, opt for clean business attire, such as a blazer and button-down shirt in contemporary cuts. Use rich colors like navy, charcoal, or even jewel tones, as these shades photograph particularly well. Minimalist jewelry and accessories are a great way to add a little personality without distracting from your face.
• Entrepreneurs and consultants: Your headshot is an important part of your personal brand, so highlight it by using colors that align with your existing marketing assets. Bridge the gap between formal and approachable with layered items like blazers, cardigans, or structured shirts.

Regardless of your role or industry, use the following styling tips to enhance your look:

• Choose clothing that fits well, without any pulling or gaping.
• Opt for a neckline that frames your face, rather than distracts from it.
• Use colors that flatter your skin tone. Patterns are a great way to add visual interest, but choose subtle ones that won’t pull the attention away from your face.
• When it comes to makeup, less is more. A little bit of makeup in neutral shades can accentuate your favorite features. For example, if you want your eyes to pop, try adding a bit of mascara and a cream or brown eyeshadow.
• If you have oily skin, try using a translucent powder or a setting spray to maintain a shine-free complexion. This will prevent harsh reflections from showing up in your photos.
• While hair should be polished, don’t be afraid to showcase its natural texture, color, and length for authenticity.
• If you have facial hair, consider trimming it right before your photoshoot for a fresh look.

5 common mistakes people make with modern headshots

Even if you have an incredible resume, the following headshot mistakes could damage your professional credibility. Luckily, there are easy fixes that can help you achieve a sleek, modern look without stress or overspending.

1. Over-editing or excessive filters

It’s easier than ever to retouch photos directly from your phone. But excessive retouching or the use of intense filters can make photos feel inauthentic. Instead of building trust, an over-edited photo can create a jarring mismatch between your online brand and in-person impressions.

Additionally, photo-editing trends change over time. Remember the high-contrast, moody filters, and bokeh of the 2010s? Today’s filters and editing styles could feel similarly dated in just a few years.

Pro tip: Stick to a natural, timeless look with minimal editing. While small enhancements can be helpful, make sure they don’t change the look and feel of the photo.

2. Choosing outdated styles

No matter what industry you’re in, it’s important to stay current. An outdated headshot could signal to potential employers or clients that you’re out of touch with current trends. This can happen when you’re wearing outdated clothing or posing in a stiff, traditional way. Before taking your headshot, research current professional trends to find a modern look that works with your personal style.

Once you take a headshot you love, it’s easy to post it and forget about it, but that headshot could look outdated in just a few years. 

Pro tip: Update your headshot every two to three years, and keep up with the latest trends.

3. Inconsistent image use

You’ll need to use your professional headshots in many different contexts, ranging from your company’s website to your personal portfolio and social media. Many people use a different image for each, mixing casual and professional photos. It’s also easy to crop or use low-resolution versions of a professional headshot without realizing it.

Pro tip: To build a strong personal brand, make sure you use the same high-quality headshots consistently. Ideally, your professional image should be consistent and cohesive, so your professional contacts will recognize you wherever you are.

4. Wrong context for industry

A great headshot doesn’t just make you look your best; it also aligns with your industry experience. A common mistake is styling a headshot in a way that’s too casual or too formal for your role.

For example, a corporate executive or a lawyer wearing a hoodie and headphones in their headshot could create trust issues. In contrast, looking too formal could alienate an audience in a creative industry. A tech entrepreneur or freelance artist wearing a three-piece suit would feel out of place.

Pro tip: Research industry standards to see what context and styling make sense for your career goals. Look for examples of headshots from people with similar career paths to yours. Then add your own personal style while staying within industry expectations.

5. Technical quality issues

When comparing good vs. bad headshots, one of the biggest differences is the quality of the photo. Issues like poor lighting, low resolution, or awkward cropping can make your headshot look unprofessional, even with good styling and posing.

Pro tip: AI headshots help you achieve a high-quality portrait without an expensive photo shoot. Try InstaHeadshots for headshots that are polished and authentic.

Simple steps for creating modern professional headshots

You don’t need to be an expert photographer to take a sleek, modern headshot. Whether you’re booking a studio session or using AI tools like InstaHeadshots, try these tips for a headshot that feels fresh and authentic.

Pick a clean, uncluttered backdrop

Neutral walls make great backgrounds, as they won’t compete with your face for attention. A blurred office background or outdoor space can also work well—just avoid busy patterns, clutter, or logos. 

AI tools simulate these clean backdrops instantly, with a huge variety of options to choose from.

Position the camera at eye level

For headshots, taking a picture at eye level is the most flattering. It creates a direct connection with the viewer and helps you avoid distortions or shadows that could distract from the picture.

To achieve this, use a tripod, chair, or table as a stable surface for your camera, rather than tilting it. Sit three to four feet away for the best proportions.

Emphasize a natural facial expression

A relaxed, natural facial expression will make your headshot look more authentic. Instead of forcing a smile, think of something pleasant and let it come naturally. You can also tailor your expression to the industry or context of your headshot. For example, a corporate executive might want to look authoritative, while creative types might prefer to look warm and approachable.

Use balanced soft lighting

For a high-quality headshot, good lighting is more important than expensive camera gear. You can use natural light from a window or a table lamp with a soft, warm hue. Position the primary light at a 45-degree angle to your face, with a reflector or another soft light source opposite. These angles prevent the harsh shadows that come with overhead lighting.

Apply subtle retouching or AI enhancements

While you don’t want to over-edit, some subtle retouching can give your headshot a final polish. Focus on enhancing your features, rather than changing them. This could mean subtly brightening up the eyes or teeth or removing temporary blemishes. You’ll also want to preserve your skin texture for authenticity. 

AI tools like InstaHeadshots handle retouching automatically while preserving realism, helping you save time and effort.

Your next move: Get professional results without the hassle

Modern headshots don’t need to adhere to stuffy, outdated expectations. The best headshots today showcase your unique personality and focus on creating an authentic connection with the viewer.

InstaHeadshots is a powerful AI tool that helps you get modern headshots without the hassle. For just $49, you’ll get multiple high-quality headshots to choose from in less than an hour.

 Try InstaHeadshots today for photos that will help you stand out in today’s professional landscape.