A professional headshot is an essential part of your personal brand.
It's one of the first things people see when they visit your website or social media profile, giving them a sense of who you are and what you're all about.
As a professional photographer and a business owner myself, it still amazes me how much it can say about you (or me).
It can make a great first impression and be just the thing to get you noticed.
On the other hand, an outdated or less-than-flattering photo can send all the wrong signals and actually hurt your chances of success.
That's why keeping your headshot up-to-date and looking its best is essential.
But how often should you update your professional headshot?
Take some time to consider the following factors, and you can decide when the time is right for a new headshot.
How long has it been since you've had a new headshot?
The most apparent factor is time.
If it’s been more than two years since your last headshot, or if you’re still using a picture from high school (yikes!), then it’s probably time for an update.
As we all know, the average person changes quite a bit in appearance over a few years, so if your headshot is more than a few years old, it might not be an accurate representation of what you look like today.
And even if you don't think you've changed that much, technology and trends have come a long way in the last few years. So if it's been more than 2-3 years since your last, it might be time for an update.
Have there been any major changes in your appearance?
Whether we like it or not, our appearance changes over time.
Let's say you have had a significant change in your look (e.g., gaining or losing a significant amount of weight, changing your hair color or style); then it is definitely time for an updated headshot.
Or if you're constantly changing your hairstyle, color, or length, then you'll need to update more frequently to reflect those changes. The same goes for your makeup or wardrobe.
If there's a significant change in your appearance, it's definitely time to book you for a new headshot here at OpticalKind!
Has your profession changed?
If you've changed careers or transitioned into a new role within your company, an updated headshot can help reflect that change.
It can help show the world that you're serious about this new venture and help attract new customers or clients.
Also, in this way, potential employers (or clients) will have no doubts that they are looking at an accurate representation of who you are today and not someone else entirely!
Are you using the same headshot on all of your professional platforms?
Your professional business headshots should be versatile enough to use in various contexts–on your website, on social media, in your email signature, etc.
If you're using the same headshot on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and your website, that's perfectly fine! Having a consistent headshot across all platforms helps people easily identify who you are, no matter where they see your photo.
If, however, you find that your current headshot no longer fits who you are and your work today, it's time for a brand new portrait.
Does your current headshot reflect the "real" you?
Professional headshots should accurately represent what you look like on a day-to-day basis.
For instance, if you're wearing sunglasses or a hat in your current headshot, or if it was taken at a formal event where you were dressed up more than usual, it might not be the best representation of what you look like day-to-day.
In that case, an updated headshot would be very beneficial.
Do you feel like it's time for a change?
Even if none of the above applies to you, but you still feel like it's time for a change, there’s nothing wrong with getting another headshot taken!
Maybe your current headshot doesn't quite capture who you are anymore, or it feels too posed and stiff, or there's something off about it that makes it feel slightly out-of-date.
Whatever the case, if it isn't accurately portraying who you are today, then by all means, go ahead and book that photo session!
'Cause sometimes we just get tired of looking at the same old thing day after day.
And if that sounds like you, then have your new professional headshot with us! You deserve it! 🙂
Final Thoughts: Out with the Old, In with the New
A professional headshot is a great way to introduce yourself to potential employers, business partners, and even online networking sites.
After all, it not only reflects your current career status but also gives off the right impression about who you are and your career goals.
And make sure it accurately reflects who you are today—not who you were five years ago! Yet, keep in mind that updating your professional headshots doesn't have to happen every year!
Consider how long it's been since the last photo shoot, whether there have been any major changes in your appearance or profession, and whether the current photos accurately represent the "real" version of yourself.
These factors can help ensure that when it comes time for a new headshot session, everything goes smoothly, and you end up with photos that represent who you are today, both professionally and personally!
So take some time to look at the photos and ask yourself.
And if it is a yes, then our team here at OpticalKind will help you out!
We understand the importance of producing a shot that accurately reflects your company's branding and style objectives. Even more so, our prices are competitive and guarantee fast delivery times for maximum customer experience!
So why wait? Get in touch with us now and book an appointment for your photo session today!