Professional vs DIY Headshots: What’s the Right Choice for You?

21 May

When it comes to updating your profile photo, one big question often comes up: Should you hire a professional, or try taking your own headshot at home? Both routes have their pros and cons, and the right answer depends on your goals, your budget, and how you want to present yourself to the world.

Let’s take a closer look at what each option offers.

Working with a Professional Photographer

Choosing to work with a professional headshot photographer means more than just a nice camera. It’s about experience – knowing how to use natural or studio lighting, finding flattering angles, and guiding you through poses that feel natural but confident. These are the little things that can make a big difference.

What’s more, professional sessions often help people feel more relaxed. When someone’s guiding the process, you’re free to focus on just being yourself – and that often shows in the final image.

Of course, professional photography comes at a cost. If you're on a tighter budget, or need something urgently, booking a shoot might not always be convenient. That’s where DIY headshots can come in.

DIY Headshots: Quick, Affordable – but Risky

With today’s smartphones, taking your own headshot can feel like a no-brainer. It’s cheap, easy, and you can do it on your own schedule. You have full control – choose your background, your lighting, even how many takes you need to get the “right” shot.

But while DIY might work in some cases, there are limitations. Without the right equipment or knowledge of posing and lighting, it’s easy to end up with an image that looks flat, poorly lit, or just not quite polished enough. And if you're planning to use your photo on LinkedIn or your business website, it’s worth asking: does this represent you at your best?

Your Headshot Is More Than Just a Photo

Whether you go pro or do it yourself, the key thing to remember is this: your headshot matters. It’s not just about how you look – it’s about how you present yourself professionally. A well-done headshot can build trust, show personality, and help you stand out in your industry.

So, if you’re ready to take that next step in your career, think carefully about the image you’re putting out there. And when you're ready to upgrade, don't hesitate to get in touch to see how we can work together.