Why a New Headshot Belongs on Your New Year’s Resolution List
Yufei Zhou
The new year is a great time to think about how you present yourself professionally. While you might be working on goals like being more productive or meeting new people, don’t forget how much your online image matters.
Every January, we start fresh and look for new chances to grow.
New goals. New habits. New plans.
But here’s a question most professionals never ask themselves:
We often focus on our goals, but we rarely stop to think about how others see us online today.
Does my online presence actually reflect who I am now?
This small detail can have a bigger effect on your career than you might think.
If your LinkedIn, company bio, or website still shows an old headshot, the answer is probably no. Experts recommend updating your headshot every 2-3 years or after big changes in your career or life. This keeps your online image up to date and true to who you are now.
Your Headshot Is Your First Impression (Whether You Like It or Not)
Your photo is usually the first thing people notice about you online. It shapes their first impression before you even say a word.
Before a recruiter reads your resume.
Before a client replies to your email.
Before someone walks into a meeting with you…
They’ve already seen your photo.
Wakita Johnson for Trailhead Foundation
A professional headshot isn’t about looking good for its own sake. It’s about showing clarity and confidence. It tells people:
You take your career seriously.
You’re current, relevant, and engaged.
You get the idea of personal branding, even if you wouldn’t use that term.
New Year, New Goals, but an Old Photo?
You wouldn’t go to an important meeting in clothes that no longer fit, so why let an old headshot represent you?
Think about what you’re working toward this year:
A new role or promotion
Growing your business
Speaking engagements or leadership opportunities
Expanding your professional network
Now ask yourself:
Does your current headshot help you reach those goals, or is it holding you back?
If your photo is old, too casual, badly lit, or cropped from a wedding picture—something I see all the time—it can work against you. To look polished and professional, use good lighting, pick a simple background, and wear clothes that fit your current role.
A Great Headshot Isn’t Just “One Photo”
Your headshot is actually a useful tool that works on many platforms, not just one.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a headshot is only for LinkedIn.
A modern headshot can be used across:
LinkedIn & social profiles
Company websites
Email signatures
Speaker bios & conference materials
Press features and publications
It’s more than just a picture—it’s a tool you can use.
The Confidence Factor (This One Matters More Than You Think)
A strong, current photo doesn’t just help others see you differently. It helps you see yourself in a new way, too.
Clients tell me this all the time after a session:
“I didn’t realize how much my old photo was holding me back.”
When your image aligns with who you are now, you show up differently.
You feel more confident, more focused, and more like yourself.
That’s not just talk. It really makes a difference.
Make This the Year You Update Your Image
Take a moment to audit your online profiles. Is your headshot still an accurate reflection of your achievements, style, and professional presence?
If you’re making professional goals this year, your headshot should be part of your plan, not something you remember at the last minute.
Think of your headshot as an investment in your personal brand. It can open doors, help you connect with others, and support your goals now and in the future.
Looking for feedback? Ask a trusted coworker or mentor if it’s time to update your headshot. If you already have a new photo, see if they think it really shows who you are now. Sometimes, another person’s view can help.
It also helps to review your own headshot. Here’s a quick checklist to help you:
Does the headshot feel current to you? Consider whether it reflects your current age, style, and professional status.
Is the lighting flattering? Good lighting can enhance your appearance and convey professionalism.
Does the background suit your industry? A neutral, uncluttered background often works best and avoids distractions.
Are you wearing appropriate attire? Your clothes should align with your industry standards and present you in a professional light.
Do you look approachable yet confident? Aim to project a warm, friendly demeanor while still conveying confidence.
With these points in mind, you can decide if it’s time for a new headshot.
Ready to get started? Book a session with Cleveland Headshots this month. Share your new photo on LinkedIn and other sites to reintroduce yourself to your network. Not ready yet? You can book your session for any time in the next year. Most sessions take about half an hour, with time to change outfits and pick your best look. Just dress professionally and bring anything you need to get ready. You’ll get your finished headshots within three to five business days. Let the session inspire you to refresh your style.
Getting a new headshot isn’t about changing yourself.
It’s about showing others who you are now.
Rockefeller Capital Management
Headshots for Teams: What Companies Can Do
If you’re a business leader or HR professional, investing in updated headshots for your team can make a powerful statement about your company’s culture and brand. Professional images create a sense of unity and professionalism across your website, marketing materials, and internal directories. Organizing team sessions can be straightforward and beneficial. Sessions are typically conducted on-site to minimize disruption to your team's workflow, and we offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate different group sizes, allowing every member of the team to participate with ease.
Setting up a headshot day is a simple way to update your company’s image and help employees feel more confident. It shows your team you value them and want them to look their best. It also keeps your brand looking consistent for clients, partners, and new hires.
At Cleveland Headshots, I offer quick, on-site sessions that keep things running smoothly and help everyone look their best, no matter your team’s size. Want to learn more? Visit clevelandheadshots.com/teams to book a consultation or get a custom quote.