Why should you update your professional headshot?

My first headshot I had was in 1996 for my college graduation. (If I can find the photo, I’ll post it!) As much as I think I really haven’t changed all that much…I have.

You absolutely should refresh your headshot at least every 1-2 years! Especially if you are a creative like me where your look and style evolves constantly (which taps into personal branding photos as well)! Here are some top reasons why everyone should get a new professional headshot.

2023 image

A sample of two new branding images for 2023. We photogs love to get our photo taken with our gear!

Updating your headshot portrait is important for business professionals for several reasons:

First of all, a headshot is often the first impression someone will have of a business professional. It is important that this image is current and reflects how they look today. If a headshot is outdated, it can be misleading and cause confusion when meeting someone in person.

I switched camera brands in 2021 and wanted to have a new image that showed my SONY gear.

I know that headshot you had in 1999 was awesome and you may have really loved how you looked that day. But…that was 24 years ago! Granted none of us are as young as we were 20 years ago. But you know? It’s ok to be real and be who you are. People appreciate you more when you can be real. It’s time to get things updated and be who you are today and celebrate that person.

Next - it’s a good idea to keep up with changes in style and trends. Not only for your look but also for the headshot itself. The style and trends of headshot photography definitely changes over time. Updating a headshot every year ensures that it is in line with current trends and portrays a modern, up-to-date and polished look.

Having a current headshot also shows professional growth. As a business professional grows and evolves in their career, (example: me with my current camera gear) updating their headshot can show their professional growth and reflect their current position and level of expertise. Even down to what you’re wearing from 10 years ago might be a great reason to update your headshot portrait!

This branding headshot is about 5 years old, and as you can see, it features my previous NIKON brand of camera.

Another shot from that same branding shoot I did about 5 years ago

Adapt to changes in your business branding. Businesses may update their branding or marketing materials over time, and having an updated headshot can ensure that a professional's image aligns with the current branding for a cohesive look.

Updating headshot portraits every year can help a business professional maintain a current and professional image, while also adapting to changes in style, branding, and professional growth.

A Pro Tip:

If you are a business owner, you should make it a point to see your favorite headshot photographer, Monda Goette Photography in the Twin Cities before the end of this year to fit those costs into this year’s marketing budget!

(this image is also an older branding image…I found this shag carpet-looking sweater that I thought looked really cool until I wore it for photos…good thing I had other images to choose from that photo session!)

I’d love to help you get your new professional headshot. Let’s start a conversation! Get in touch with me here!

Fondly,
Monda the Photographer