Professional headshot for your resume

Every industry has its own dress code, which should be reflected in your application photo. Banks prefer a classic, professional look, while advertising agencies allow for a more relaxed style in terms of clothing, pose, and background. When it comes to the question of color versus black-and-white, there is no industry-specific answer.

Generally, you don’t need to bring anything to your headshot appointment—except, of course, your professional attire. Everyone is welcome to bring their own grooming products, such as hairspray, powder, etc. We’re also happy to provide our own styling products. Here’s what makes for good headshots.

The 6 most important tips for application photos.

1. Clothing for professional headshot photos

The same rule applies here as it does for a job interview. The outfit you wear to a job interview should be appropriate for the position you’re applying for. If a suit is typically worn for the job, you should wear one in your application photo as well. If not, a shirt or blouse is sufficient.

2. The Right Hairstyle for Your Job Application Photo

When applying for a job, it's important to pay attention to your appearance. Make sure your hair doesn't cover your face in the photo or look unkempt in any way.

3. The Right Photo for Your Resume

The application photo should show your head and part of your shoulders. Your head may be slightly cropped. However, this only works if it's done well.

4. Jewelry and Makeup in a Headshot

Overly flashy jewelry is out of place in a job application photo. This applies to oversized necklaces and, above all, to piercings. You should apply your makeup subtly.

5. The Perfect Expression

The famous “winning smile” is the ideal expression for job application photos. But don’t force the corners of your mouth into a smile. If it doesn’t come naturally, a friendly—and natural—expression is the better choice.

6. Photo format for modern application photos

There is no set size for application photos. A height of 6 cm and a width of 4.5 cm have become the standard. If you have an eye for good photos, you can deviate from these dimensions. Landscape-oriented application photos are less common, but not prohibited. It’s one way to stand out from other applicants, but some recruiters prefer the classic format: portrait orientation. You can make a modern impression with a round application photo. This format is also used on many job platforms such as LinkedIn, Xing, or Facebook. If you place the application photo on a cover sheet, keep in mind that it can be slightly larger.

Successful applications aren’t a matter of chance—they result from a combination of persuasive writing, layout, and a professional, expressive application photo. The background of the application photo also plays an important role.

We’ve divided modern backgrounds for your application photos into four categories:
Successful applications aren’t a matter of chance—they’re the result of a combination of persuasive writing, layout, and a professional, expressive application photo. The background of the application photo also plays an important role.

We divide modern backgrounds for your application photos into 4 categories:

1. White background
2. Gray background
3. Black background
4. Business Background

: Light-colored backgroundsWell-composed headshots with light-colored backgrounds create a very positive impression. You can also achieve beautiful headshots with light-colored backgrounds by incorporating subtle shadows.

Neutral-toned backgrounds
Neutral-toned backgrounds are the most common and the standard choice for headshots. This is the ideal background because it doesn’t create a stark contrast with your skin tone.

Dark Backgrounds
Dark backgrounds look very sophisticated and help you stand out from the crowd, but they don’t suit everyone or every outfit. It’s also important to note that a job application photo with a dark background isn’t appropriate for every job position or industry.

Business BackgroundsJob application photos with business backgrounds are all the rage among HR and recruitment professionals. These photos look interesting and modern. Since they stand out from the usual, repetitive studio backgrounds without distracting from the applicant, they are ideal for job applications.

Yes! Many people have never had their picture taken professionally in a photo studio before and are understandably nervous. The photographer will offer helpful tips and give instructions on posture and facial expressions. It’s important to us to create a space where you feel comfortable. Our goal is to produce authentic, professional, and cheerful headshots that make a strong impression.

A headshot is an essential part of any application. If you are applying for an apprenticeship, an internship, or a school, you can take the headshot yourself. In all other cases, a professional headshot taken by a photographer is a must.

Do you need a headshot for your apprenticeship search? A professional headshot taken by a photographer increases your chances of being invited to a job shadowing day or landing your dream apprenticeship. We offer a special discounted rate for young people who need a new headshot for their apprenticeship search.

Book our Junior Headshot Package!