Professional Photos and Your Job Search | Houston Headshot Photographer

As you are pulling yourself together and getting ready to embark on a job search, is it necessary to have a professional photo to go along with your resume?  I think it is becoming more and more important, but there are a few things to consider before you pick out a snapshot and paste it next to your name.

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First of all, there are a couple of things I have to say:

  • In the United States, it is generally illegal for employers to consider your photo in a hiring decision. If an employer can’t use race, ethnicity, gender, etc. to make a hiring decision, it may not be smart to include your photo on your resume itself.  After all, your resume is a tool to get you hired, right?
  • Second, recruiters are human. If they are good, smart recruiters, they won’t judge you based on your picture.  However, if they met 300 candidates at a job fair yesterday, your photo may help them remember you from everyone else.

 

I absolutely do not think you should include your photo on your resume, barring a few exceptions.  However, job searches today are so much more than resume drop-offs.  Your LinkedIn profile, Facebook information, and personal website are integral parts of your job search.  Having a photo as part of your online presence is critical.  That scary grey silhouette that comes with an incomplete profile is not how you want recruiters to see you.  You want them to know that you spent some time developing your online profile, and that you care about how you present yourself.  You also want them to be able to distinguish you from the other 412 people on LinkedIn with a similar name.

If recruiters are searching online profiles to actively seek out potential candidates, they are much more likely to view a profile if it includes a photo.  No one clicks on a profile that seems incomplete at first glance.

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When should you include your photo on your resume or other printed materials?

  • You’ve been on the cover of a major industry-relevant publication.
  • You are an actor, model, or in a similar profession.
  • You’re looking for customers, not an employer. (Think of realtors, personal trainers, and stylists.)

 

What should you consider when choosing a photo for your profile?

  • It portrays professionalism. (That means no visible cocktail glasses, even if it was a company event.)
  • It suits your industry. If you are an attorney, you probably want to be wearing a suit.  If you are a chef, an action shot of you in the kitchen might be more fitting.
  • It was taken specifically for this purpose. You don’t want to crop your buddies out of a photo and use what’s left on your profile.
  • It’s not boring. If there is a cinder block wall behind you, it’s going to look more like a mug shot than a head shot.

 

As with every part of your job search, there is a fine line between being the best candidate you can be and just being yourself.  Your photo is a great way to inject a little personality into your profile!

 

Written by Leanne Goplen Zabriskie, Recruiting Knowledge Manager at Aasonn

 

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But in reality...👇🏼

With group composites, each team member is photographed individually and then seamlessly combined into a polished, professional group photo. When someone new joins or a team member leaves, you simply update the composite—no need to gather everyone for a brand-new shoot!

That’s why more professionals are making the switch. Here’s why group composites are the smarter choice over traditional team photos:

💰 Cost Savings

- No more expensive re-shoots! Just update individual headshots instead of redoing the entire team photo.
- Skip venue rentals—everyone is photographed separately, so there’s no need for a big studio or location booking.
- Long-term savings make group composites the best option for growing teams.

🎨 A More Polished Look

- No more awkward expressions or bad posture—each headshot is carefully posed and edited for a flawless final result.
- Consistent lighting and framing create a sleek, professional image.
- Customize the background to match your brand for a cohesive, high-end look.

🔄 Built-In Future Flexibility

- Need an update? Just add or remove individual headshots—no need to gather the whole team again.
- Keep branding consistent across your website, marketing, and social media.
- Save time and avoid scheduling headaches—employees take their headshots at their convenience.

Want a team photo that evolves with you? Let’s chat! 📩 Book a free consultation today!
Here's my answer...

I hear this all the time—clients wondering if I can take off a few years, a few pounds, or smooth out a feature they’re self-conscious about.

And the answer?

I’ve got you! 💪

With years of experience in lighting, posing, and post-production, I know how to highlight your best features in a natural, flattering way.

My goal isn’t to make you look like someone else—it’s to capture *you* at your absolute best. The most confident, radiant, and *authentic* version of yourself. ✨

So trust the process, and let’s create headshots and portraits that make you feel amazing! 📸

Send me a message or visit my site to book your FREE Consultation!
Why You Need Both 👇🏻

When it comes to your acting or modeling portfolio, versatility is key. Here’s why having BOTH styles can open doors:

🎬 Theatrical Headshots – Think moody, dark, mysterious, and serious. These photos highlight your ability to take on intense, dramatic roles. Casting directors are looking for depth, emotion, and that “I can play the lead in a thriller” energy.

📺 Commercial Headshots – The “selling Cheerios” vibe—bright, happy, and approachable. These shots showcase your friendly, relatable side, perfect for commercials, lifestyle brands, and roles that require charisma and warmth.

✨ Pro Tip: Your headshot is your first audition. Make sure it tells the story you want casting directors to see.

If you're ready to update your portfolio - let's connect! 

Send me a message or visit my site to book your FREE consultation!

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3 tips for natural, authentic senior poses 👇🏻

Most seniors feel nervous in front of the camera because they don’t know what to do with their hands, their feet, or even their face. That’s where I come in. 🙋🏼‍♀️ 

Here are 3 quick poses that always work:

1️⃣ Relax your hands - soft, loose fingers look natural in every photo.
2️⃣ Shift your weight - try putting it on one foot for a more casual stance.
3️⃣ Play with movement - adjusting your hair, walking, or laughing can make all the difference!

From the first click to the final shot, I’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your photos reflect the best version of you. No awkward, stiff poses here- just real, confident, you. 😉

📸 It’s not too late to book your consultation. Let’s create senior photos you’ll absolutely love. Click the link in my bio to get started!

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Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.