Why Your LinkedIn Headshot Matters More Than You Think

At Holladay Photography, we’ve helped hundreds of professionals shape how they’re seen.  Whether you’re establishing your career credentials, forging a new path with a new career or building a brand, your LinkedIn profile photo is one of the first things people notice. And it’s doing more work than you think.

Here’s what the research shows—and why a polished headshot is more than a nice-to-have. It’s a career investment.

1. You Get Noticed More—with Real Numbers to Back It Up

LinkedIn reports that profiles with a professional photo get 21 times more views and 36 times more messages than those without one.

If your goal is to make new connections, land interviews, or attract clients, not having a headshot—or having a bad one—is holding you back.

2. You Make a Stronger First Impression

Recruiters and potential partners often decide within seconds whether to engage with your profile. A study by TheLadders found that they spend nearly 20% of their viewing time on your profile photo alone.

That’s more than your job title, resume summary, or education.

Put simply: your photo shapes the first impression—and you don’t get a second one.

3. It's About Trust and Professionalism

According to Forbes, a professional headshot signals credibility. It shows that you take your personal brand seriously. A blurry selfie or a qucik phone photo snapped by your workmate sends the opposite message.

Whether you're applying for a job or trying to land a new client, people want to know they’re dealing with someone competent and trustworthy. Your photo helps say that before you even speak.

4. People Remember Faces—Not Resumes

Human beings are wired to remember faces, not facts. Eye-tracking research from Missouri University of Science and Technology showed that viewers are drawn first to photos, and then to names and titles.

This means your headshot sets the tone for everything else they read.

Your Headshot Is Your Digital Handshake

A professional headshot isn’t just about looking good. It’s about looking like someone others want to connect with, hire, or collaborate with. In a crowded digital world, a unique headshot or portrait matters more than ever.

Let’s Elevate Your First Impression

At Holladay Photography, we specialize in creating headshots that are bold, cinematic, and purpose-driven. Whether you're in Grand Rapids or the surrounding area, we’re here to help you present your best self—authentically and professionally.

📩 Book your headshot session here today!
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Because the right image doesn’t just represent you—it opens doors.
Let’s make sure your photo is working as hard as you are.