Your LinkedIn Photo: The Gateway to Opportunity
On LinkedIn, your photo is viewed millions of times – in search results, connection requests, messages, and feed posts. Profiles with professional photos receive 21 times more profile views and 36 times more messages than those without.
Recruiters spend an average of 6 seconds reviewing a LinkedIn profile. In that time, your photo creates an instant impression about your professionalism, approachability, and fit for roles.
Professional Photo Checklist
- Recent Photo: Should look like you today. Update every 1-2 years.
- Face Takes Up 60%: Viewers should easily see your expression.
- Clean Background: Solid colors or blurred backgrounds reduce distraction.
- Good Lighting: Natural, soft light flatters faces. Avoid harsh shadows.
- Appropriate Attire: Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.
LinkedIn Image Size Guide
Profile Photo
Upload: 800x800px
Display: 400x400px
Note: Circular crop
Background/Banner
Upload: 1584x396px
Display: 1584x396px
Note: 4:1 ratio
Post Image
Upload: 1200x627px
Display: 1200x627px
Note: 1.91:1 ratio
Company Logo
Upload: 300x300px
Display: 300x300px
Note: Square format
LinkedIn Photo FAQ
What size should my LinkedIn profile photo be?
LinkedIn recommends 400x400 pixels minimum, but 800x800 pixels is ideal for sharp display on all devices. The image displays as a circle, so keep your face centered. File size should be under 8MB, and PNG or JPEG formats work best.
What are the LinkedIn banner/cover photo dimensions?
LinkedIn background images should be 1584x396 pixels (4:1 ratio). This appears behind your profile photo on your profile page. Note that on mobile, the left and right edges may be cropped, so keep important content centered.
How can I look more professional in my LinkedIn photo?
Key elements of a professional LinkedIn photo: dress appropriately for your industry, use soft natural lighting on your face, choose a clean simple background (solid colors work best), smile naturally with your eyes, fill 60% of the frame with your face, and ensure the image is high-resolution and not pixelated.
Should I use a professional headshot or casual photo?
It depends on your industry. Corporate roles (finance, law, consulting) generally expect traditional professional headshots. Creative industries (design, tech startups, media) allow more casual, personality-showing photos. The key is looking approachable yet competent – research what successful people in your target roles use.
How often should I update my LinkedIn photo?
Update your photo every 1-2 years, or whenever your appearance significantly changes. People should recognize you from your photo – an outdated image can hurt your credibility when meeting in person. Profiles with photos receive 21x more views and 36x more messages.