Your Profile Photo

The actual logo for your personal brand

In the world of personal branding, your profile picture is more important than your logo. In fact, in most cases, your profile picture IS your logo. It plays an important role in making you more recognizable to your ideal audience. When I’m working with a client to makeover their personal brand, literally the very first thing I do is help them create a stand-out profile photo. In this post, I’m going to walk you through the process of creating a profile photo that will be a strong representation of your personal brand.

I absolutely believe that hiring a photographer to do a branding photo shoot or headshots is worth the investment.  However, it is possible to take your own amazing profile photo using these tips.

personal branding profile photo basics

This may seem basic or common sense, but it must be said.  When you are building a personal brand on social media, your profile photo must be of you.  Don’t use your brand logo, your pet, your kids, or your family photos.  

Your profile photo should be a current, high-quality, headshot of you.  Alone.  People need to see who they are connecting with on social media.  There’s a psychology behind this that I will explain in a later blog post… but for now, just trust me on this.  

This photo should be clear, current, and friendly.  Try to avoid looking too serious or using overly “sexy” facial expressions or poses (unless that’s your brand aesthetic).  In general, you want to be making clear eye contact with your camera and smiling warmly.  The goal is to look like someone your dream customer or client would like to be friends with.

how to set up your cell phone for great photos

Before we discuss how to personally brand your profile photo, it’s important to know some tips and tricks for taking great photos with just your iPhone.  

• Before a DIY photo shoot, it’s important to always clean the lens of your phone camera to get the clearest image possible.
• When you open your iPhone camera, change the setting to portrait mode, then scroll over to choose studio lighting.  I’ve found this setting to create the most flattering photos.
• As you are setting up your tripod or taking your selfie, position the top of your phone to be even with the top of your forehead, then slightly tilt your phone downward to find your most flattering angle.

This doesn’t fall into the setting category, but it’s probably one of the mistakes I see most often.  Make direct eye contact with the lens.  I see so many people take photos of themselves while they are looking at themselves on the screen or slightly “off” from the actual lens.  Before your photo shoot, practice looking directly into your camera lens.

capture the essence of your brand

The primary goal of your DIY personal branding photoshoot should be to really capture your personality and brand essence.  Envision the woman that you want to be and the type of business you want to have, then show that side of you in your profile photo.  Whether you want to be known as a savvy businesswoman and leader, or the fun and free-spirited girl next door… you need to dress for the job you want.

Your clothes, makeup, and hair should reflect the image you want to portray to your audience. Wear clothing that aligns with your brand, whether it’s a dress suit for a more professional image or something casual if you’re representing a relaxed, creative personal brand. 

Use your brand colors and styling

Your profile photo should be consistent with your brand’s overall color scheme and style. Coordinate your outfit with your brand colors. This consistency will make your personal brand easily identifiable and memorable.

I might receive commissions if you click on the links in this post and make purchases. However, please know this does not impact my recommendations. I try to keep things fair and balanced to help you make the best choice for your needs.

use a solid color background in your brand colors

Choose a simple, neutral background for your profile picture to keep the focus on you.  If you have a Canva Pro account, I recommend removing the background and replacing it with a background in your brand colors.  Avoid busy patterns or distracting elements that could detract from your personal brand. A solid color or blurred background works best.

lighting for your photo shoot

Good lighting is essential for a high-quality profile photo.  I’ve edited thousands of photos for myself and my clients.  When you use flattering lighting, you won’t feel the need for skin-blurring filters.   It really makes that big of a difference.

When taking photos indoors, an 18″ ring light will work best and is an essential tool that you’ll need in your personal branding toolkit.  I recommend a ring light with a built-in phone holder and remote.

I’ve found that using natural light is very flattering when used correctly.  I advise my clients to stand facing an open window or door and take their photos using natural light while indoors.  I typically prefer to use natural light while indoors rather than outdoors, to avoid the unflattering shadows caused by direct sunlight. If you are taking photos outside, schedule your DIY photoshoot during the “golden hour” (the hour before sunset or after sunrise) for optimal lighting conditions.  

 

infuse your brand with your personality

 Your profile photo should capture your unique personality, so let it shine through. Be genuine and authentic, and choose a pose that feels natural to you. A warm, engaging smile can create an inviting and approachable image for your personal brand.  

Edit and Retouch (But Don’t Overdo It)

 It’s okay to have your profile photo retouched but avoid going overboard. Your photos should still look like you, not a heavily airbrushed version. Stick to removing blemishes and making minor adjustments, such as brightening the photo or tweaking the colors with a preset.

 

update your profile photo yearly

Update your profile photo yearly or whenever you undergo a significant change in your appearance or personal brand, this keeps your branding current and relevant.  This will ensure that your audience always recognizes and connects with your up-to-date image.

conclusion

Your profile photo is the face of your personal brand, and it’s crucial to make it as strong and impactful as possible. By following these guidelines, you’ll create a profile picture that accurately represents your brand, leaves a lasting impression on your audience, and helps you stand out in the crowded digital landscape. Invest time and effort into crafting the perfect profile photo, and watch as more people connect with you and your brand.