Your professional headshot is often the first impression people have of you. It's the image that represents you and your personal brand, whether it's on your LinkedIn profile, your company website, or your social media accounts.

But when was the last time you updated it? If you're struggling to recall a photo from several years ago, it might be time for a refresh. A professional headshot isn't just about looking good; it's about being authentic, approachable, and up-to-date. Our appearances and careers evolve, and your headshot should reflect the current version of you.

In this Blog post, we’ll go over the top 8 signs that it’s time to update your headshot and the best way to go about it.

1. Your Appearance Has Changed Significantly

One of the clearest signs that it's time for a new headshot is when your appearance no longer matches your photo. Maybe you've changed your hairstyle, grown or shaved a beard, started wearing glasses, or even changed your wardrobe style significantly. Your headshot should feel authentic to who you are today. It can be frustrating for colleagues, clients, or potential employers to meet you in person and feel like they don't recognize you because your photo is outdated. Essentially, whenever you make a significant change to your appearance, it's a good time to consider updating your headshot.

2. It's Been More Than Two Years

Even if your appearance hasn't changed dramatically, time can still take a toll on your headshot's relevance. Trends in photography, lighting, and even your industry's expectations can shift over time. Updating your headshot every 1–2 years ensures that your image stays fresh and contemporary. This is especially important in fast-paced industries like tech, marketing, or entertainment, where a stale photo might suggest you're out of touch.

3. You've Changed Jobs or Roles

A new job or career move is the perfect opportunity to update your headshot. Different roles often call for different visual representations. For example, a headshot for a corporate executive might look very different from one for a creative professional or entrepreneur. Your headshot should align with your current professional identity and the industry you're in. A polished, confident image can help you establish credibility in your new role and make a strong first impression on your colleagues, clients, and connections.

4. You're Rebranding Yourself or Your Business

If you've decided to rebrand yourself or your business, your headshot should be part of that transformation. Your photo is a key element of your personal or company brand, and it should align with the new direction you're taking. For instance, if you've shifted from a corporate job to running your own creative consultancy, your headshot can reflect a more approachable and dynamic vibe. On the other hand, if you're stepping into a more formal leadership position, your headshot can project authority and professionalism.

5. Your Current Headshot Wasn't Professionally Taken

Let's be honest—if your current headshot was snapped by a friend with a smartphone or cropped from a wedding photo, it's time for an upgrade. While casual photos might work for personal social media accounts, they don't convey the level of professionalism required for most industries. A professionally taken headshot isn't just about the quality of the image—it's about capturing your personality, confidence, and approachability. A good professional photographer will understand how to use lighting, angles, and posing to bring out your best features while making you look authentic.

6. Your Headshot No Longer Matches Your Personality or Goals

People grow and evolve, and so do their personal brands. Maybe your current headshot reflects a serious, corporate vibe, but you've since embraced a more casual and creative approach to your work. Or perhaps your headshot looks overly casual when you're now targeting a high-level executive role. Your headshot should tell a story about who you are and where you're going. If your goals or personality have shifted, it's worth investing in a new photo that represents this updated version of yourself.

7. You're Launching Something New

Whether you're starting a new business, publishing a book, or preparing for a major speaking engagement, launching something new is a great reason to update your headshot. These milestones often come with increased visibility, and your photo will likely be featured in press materials, websites, or event promotions. A fresh, professional headshot ensures you look polished and ready for the spotlight. It also demonstrates that you take yourself and your work seriously.

8. Your Industry Has Updated Its Standards

Different industries have different expectations for professional headshots. For instance, tech startups might favor more relaxed, creative images, while legal or financial sectors often prefer formal, polished photos. As your industry evolves, so should your headshot. Keeping up with industry trends ensures that your photo aligns with the expectations of your peers, clients, and collaborators.

9. You've Been Putting It Off for Too Long

Finally, if you've been telling yourself, "I'll update my headshot eventually," it's time to stop procrastinating. Many people delay getting a new headshot because they feel self-conscious or worry about the time and effort involved. Here's the good news: a professional headshot session is designed to make you feel comfortable and confident. A skilled photographer will guide you through the process, from wardrobe styling to posing, so you walk away with a photo you love.

Once you've decided it's time for a new headshot, it's important to make the most of it. Update your old headshot on LinkedIn, your company website, social media profiles, and any other platforms where your photo appears. Consistency is key to building a cohesive personal brand. Share your new headshot on social media and let your connections know you've refreshed your professional image. This can be a great way to generate engagement and start conversations.

Updating your professional headshot is about more than just getting a new photo—it's about staying authentic, relevant, and aligned with your goals. Whether it's been years since your last session or you've recently gone through a major life change, a fresh headshot can help you present your best self to the world. So, when should you update your professional headshot? The answer is simple: whenever your current photo no longer represents who you are or where you're headed. Invest in yourself, and let your headshot work as a powerful tool to open doors and create opportunities.