You’ve surely heard that your professional headshot is often the first impression you make online. Whether it’s on LinkedIn, your company website, or social media profiles, your headshot should reflect the best version of you in your current professional state.

But I also know how many people HATE having their picture taken. So, how do you know when it’s time for an update? Here are 5 key signs that indicate it’s time to refresh your headshot — along with examples of how it can impact your personal brand.

1. Your Headshot Is More Than 2-3 Years Old

Trends in photography, fashion, and even social media algorithms change over time. If your headshot is more than a few years old, it might no longer align with current professional standards. An outdated headshot can make your profile look neglected or suggest that you’re not actively engaged in your industry.

Example: A few years ago, I was connected with a woman in a different networking group. Her picture showed a blonde woman, maybe in her 40s. But when we actually met on a Zoom call, she did not look ANYTHING like that picture. It had to be 20 years old. Her hair color and hairstyle had changed.

I had to control my face to avoid a look of shock. And here’s the problem with that: the outdated photo is a lie. That erodes trust — something you need to build with potential clients, partners, anyone really. So why would you do that?

2. Your Appearance Has Changed Significantly

Speaking of changes, if your look has changed — whether due to a new hairstyle, glasses, weight changes, or even just natural aging — it’s time for a new photo. Your headshot should represent how you look today, not how you looked a decade ago. I know this is harder if you’ve gained weight than if you’ve lost weight, but all the old “skinny” picture does is tell people you’ve gained weight recently.

Example: A business coach who went from clean-shaven to sporting a full beard should update their photo so that clients recognize them when they meet in person or on video calls.

This is the reason I just updated mine. (See picture.) My hairstyle has changed quite a bit in the last year, so I want my portrait to look like me … today.

3. You’ve Rebranded or Shifted Industries

Your headshot should match your current professional brand. If you’ve transitioned into a new industry, your previous headshot might no longer reflect the right image. A corporate-style photo might not fit if you’ve moved into a more creative or casual field, and vice versa.

Example: A former finance executive who starts a career as a wellness coach should replace their formal, suit-and-tie headshot with a more approachable, lifestyle-based photo that resonates with their new audience.

This also happened to my husband. He used to work in sales, so he was wearing a suit in his old headshot. But he switched to manufacturing, so now that looked overdressed. We used my phone to take a decent picture of him in a collared shirt. See: it doesn’t have to be a professional photographer. (But make sure you have good lighting and a simple background.)

4. Your Current Photo Is Low-Quality

Blurry, pixelated, or poorly lit photos don’t reflect well on your professionalism. Your headshot should be clear, high-resolution, and well-lit, ideally taken by a professional photographer. And I know a bunch, all over the country, if you want a recommendation!

Example: I’ve seen a lot of low-quality headshots on LinkedIn and other social media platforms, often from younger professionals. I think people often pull something off their phone when they create their profile, sometimes zooming in from a picture from their weekend of vacation.

I remember one blurry image of a woman with her dog, probably on a hiking trail. It was so pixelated I could barely tell if I had the right person. And even if it was high resolution, it was super casual — in hiking clothes — which shouldn’t have been her brand. She was a recruiter — she needed a headshot in office attire.

And for heaven’s sake, unless you’re a swimsuit model or maybe a personal trainer, no pictures in a bathing suit on the beach! Yes, I’ve seen these, too. Even on LinkedIn.

5. You Want to Present a More Approachable or Professional Image

Your headshot should align with how you want to be perceived. If you previously chose a stiff, overly formal photo but want to come across as warm and approachable, a new headshot with a natural smile and relaxed posture might be a better fit.

Example: A tech startup founder who initially had a serious, corporate-style headshot might update their photo to one taken in a casual setting to reflect their company’s fun and innovative culture.

Final Thoughts

A professional headshot is a powerful branding tool, on social media and off. Keeping it up to date ensures that you make the right first impression. If any of these signs apply to you, consider scheduling a new photoshoot to refresh your online presence. A high-quality, updated headshot can enhance your credibility, attract new opportunities, and help you stand out in your industry.

When was the last time you updated your headshot? If it’s been a while, now might be the perfect time!