Last week, while photographing a property, I got chatting to an estate agent who was also there working. As we were finishing up, I half-jokingly asked if he needed his headshots updating. He laughed and admitted they were about 10 years old — but he was clinging on to those youthful images for as long as he could.
That light-hearted conversation stuck with me.
Because here’s the thing: it might be comforting to hang onto the version of yourself that lives in an older photograph. But in business — especially one where trust, connection and professionalism matter — your headshot is doing a lot of heavy lifting. It’s often your first impression, and if it doesn’t look like you anymore, that could be doing more harm than good.
What an outdated headshot might be saying (without you realising)
You might love your old photo. It might even be a really good photo. But if it’s clearly from another era of your life, it can send the wrong signals. A client might not even realise why it’s bothering them, but they might start wondering:
- If this is out of date, what else is?
- Are they still active in their business?
- Will they be relatable and approachable in real life?
It’s not about vanity. It’s about trust and authenticity.
Be proud of where you are now
You don’t have to wait until you feel ‘perfect’ or until you’ve lost weight, got a haircut, or finally bought that ideal outfit. The most effective headshots aren’t about perfection — they’re about connection.
Headshots don’t have to mean stiff, corporate-style images. These days, your brand photos can feel much more relaxed and natural — while still being professional and polished.
Even if you’re not a fan of being in front of the camera, a professionally taken image will always make a better impression than a cropped selfie or a holiday snap. It shows you take your business seriously — and helps your potential clients feel like they already know who they’re talking to.
I always work with my clients to help them feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera. And as part of the process, I’ll guide you on what to wear, how to pose naturally, and how to use your updated headshots across your website and social media.
When should you update your headshots?
A good rule of thumb: update your headshots every 1–2 years, or sooner if you’ve:
- Changed your hairstyle or overall look
- Launched a new service or changed your business direction
- Moved into a new role or industry
- Noticed people don’t immediately recognise you from your photo
According to a 2022 personal branding study, people form impressions of you within 7 seconds of seeing your image — and those impressions can linger. Make sure they’re based on the real you, not a version from a decade ago.
Ready to refresh your headshots?
If it’s been a while since you last updated your photos — or you’ve been avoiding it altogether — now might be the perfect time to change that. A relaxed, natural headshot can help you feel proud of how you show up in your business and give your potential clients the confidence to connect.
You can find out more about my business photography here.
Want to chat about booking a personal brand or headshot session? Get in touch — I’d love to hear from you.
