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The Power of a Profile Photo: How to Boost Profile Views by 14x

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in corporate headshots.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

Your profile photo is more than just an image—it’s your visual introduction to the world. It’s the first thing people notice on LinkedIn, social media platforms, or even your company’s website. In fact, according to LinkedIn expert Donna Serdula, having a confident smile in your profile photo can make your profile 14 times more likely to be viewed. That’s a staggering statistic that underscores just how vital it is to have a polished and professional image that stands out.

But why does your profile photo matter so much, and what makes it effective? Let’s explore how this one detail can have a significant impact on your personal brand and career growth.

LinkedIn Profile Photo

Why Your Profile Photo Matters

Your headshot is often the first impression you make in the professional world. Think of it as a visual handshake—a way to introduce yourself before a single word is exchanged. In today’s fast-paced, digital-first environment, people are quick to form opinions. A strong profile photo can communicate trust, professionalism, and approachability in just seconds.

With 14 times more profile views on the line, it’s clear that investing in a professional headshot is worth it. It’s your opportunity to visually tell the world, “I’m confident, credible, and ready to connect.”

What Makes a Great Profile Photo?

Not all profile photos are created equal. To truly stand out, your photo should include these key elements:

  1. Lighting: Natural or soft lighting creates a flattering and professional look. Avoid harsh shadows or dim environments.
  2. Wardrobe: Choose attire that aligns with your industry and personal brand. Solid colors work well, and avoid busy patterns.
  3. Background: A clean, uncluttered background ensures the focus stays on you.
  4. Expression: A confident smile makes all the difference. It communicates warmth and approachability.
  5. Professional Quality: A high-resolution, well-composed image is essential. A blurry or poorly cropped photo can make you appear unprofessional.

Each of these elements combines to create a compelling headshot that showcases your best self.

Houston therapist professional headshot, woman in turquoise blouse smiling for the camera.

The Confidence Factor

Confidence is one of the most important qualities your profile photo can convey. When people see a confident smile and posture, it immediately builds trust and credibility. This is especially important on platforms like LinkedIn, where first impressions can open doors to new opportunities.

Your confidence doesn’t just show that you’re ready to take on challenges; it makes others more likely to connect with you, work with you, or even hire you. A strong profile photo serves as a visual cue that you’re competent, approachable, and professional—all qualities that resonate with potential clients, employers, or collaborators.

Why Professional Help Matters

While it might be tempting to take a quick selfie or rely on an outdated image, a DIY approach often falls short. A professional profile photo is an investment in your personal brand.

Here’s why working with a professional photographer makes all the difference:

  • Guidance: A professional knows how to coach you into the perfect pose and expression that reflects your confidence.
  • Lighting and Composition: They understand how to use lighting and angles to enhance your features and create a polished look.
  • Customization: A professional can tailor your profile photo to fit your industry and personal branding needs.

By choosing to invest in a professional headshot, you’re setting yourself up for success in a competitive market. It’s a decision that can elevate your personal brand and open doors to new opportunities.

Corporate professional headshot for a man in a blue suit and grey button-down.

The Science Behind 14X Views

Let’s revisit that powerful statistic from LinkedIn expert Donna Serdula: profiles with a confident smile in their profile photo are 14 times more likely to be viewed. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about the psychology of connection. People are naturally drawn to friendly, approachable images. A great profile photo makes it easier for others to imagine working with you, hiring you, or networking with you.

Ready to Elevate Your LinkedIn Profile?

Your profile photo is your chance to make a lasting first impression, build credibility, and attract opportunities. With so much riding on this one image, don’t leave it to chance. A professional headshot session can help you create a photo that reflects the best version of yourself and aligns with your goals.

Are you ready to stand out and make an impact? Book a consultation today, and let’s create a profile photo that takes your personal brand to the next level.

Additional Headshots Great for a LinkedIn Profile

Therapist smiling for a professional headshot.

Professional headshot for a woman in a bright pink blazer suit jacket.

Man in dark blue suit with red tie smiling for a corporate headshot.

Woman in blue dress smiling for a professional headshot.

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in corporate headshots.  See more headshots in the gallery.  Contact me to book your professional headshot today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

Let’s talk about it 👇🏻

If your brand photos aren’t working… it’s probably because they’re not telling the full story. 📖

So many business owners come to me thinking they just need a good headshot. And while that’s a great pace to start—it’s not enough to truly connect with your audience.

When I work with clients on branding sessions, we create a variety of images that show who you are, how you work, and what it’s like to be in your world. Because that’s what people really want to see.

Here are 5 types of brand photos I recommend for every business owner ⬇️

📸 Classic Headshot – Professional and polished, but with personality. Think confident, approachable, and totally on-brand.

📸 Lifestyle – You doing your thing—working on your laptop, taking client calls, sipping coffee. These shots feel natural and authentic (because they are).

📸 Detail or Flat Lay – The close-ups: your hands writing, your products, your favorite pen and planner. These add texture and storytelling to your visuals.

📸 Environment/Context – Your space, your vibe. Whether it’s a cozy home office or a sleek meeting room, it helps clients imagine being there with you.

📸Team or Interaction Shots – Collaborating, problem-solving, laughing. People want to see connection—these images make your brand feel human.

Every image we create is intentional—designed to help your audience picture themselves working with you and to build that all-important trust before they ever reach out.

✨ Ready to show up with confidence and clarity? Let’s make it happen. DM me today to book your FREE consultation.

#businessbranding #brandingphotographer #personalbranding #brandingtips #houstonbrandingphotographer

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Let’s talk about it 👇🏻 If your brand photos aren’t working… it’s probably because they’re not telling the full story. 📖 So many business owners come to me thinking they just need a good headshot. And while that’s a great pace to start—it’s not enough to truly connect with your audience. When I work with clients on branding sessions, we create a variety of images that show who you are, how you work, and what it’s like to be in your world. Because that’s what people really want to see. Here are 5 types of brand photos I recommend for every business owner ⬇️ 📸 Classic Headshot – Professional and polished, but with personality. Think confident, approachable, and totally on-brand. 📸 Lifestyle – You doing your thing—working on your laptop, taking client calls, sipping coffee. These shots feel natural and authentic (because they are). 📸 Detail or Flat Lay – The close-ups: your hands writing, your products, your favorite pen and planner. These add texture and storytelling to your visuals. 📸 Environment/Context – Your space, your vibe. Whether it’s a cozy home office or a sleek meeting room, it helps clients imagine being there with you. 📸Team or Interaction Shots – Collaborating, problem-solving, laughing. People want to see connection—these images make your brand feel human. Every image we create is intentional—designed to help your audience picture themselves working with you and to build that all-important trust before they ever reach out. ✨ Ready to show up with confidence and clarity? Let’s make it happen. DM me today to book your FREE consultation. #businessbranding #brandingphotographer #personalbranding #brandingtips #houstonbrandingphotographer

I get it—you’ve hired someone new, and now you need a matching headshot… but your original photographer is no longer available. 😬

Do you really have to start over and re-photograph the whole team?

Not if you hire someone who knows how to recreate what’s already working.

That’s where I come in.

When a company calls me in to match an existing set of headshots, I study every detail of your current images so your new photos blend in flawlessly—like they were taken on the same day.

Here’s what I focus on to make that happen:

✅ Lighting – Studio or natural? Soft, directional, or diffused?

✅ Background – Color, texture, and how sharp or blurry it is.

✅ Cropping & Composition – How close is the shot? What’s the framing like?

✅ Posing & Expression – Are your team members posed formally or relaxed and candid?

✅ Editing Style – Bright and airy? Bold and contrasty? Warm or cool tones?

📸 The result: a polished, consistent set of headshots that reflect your brand—even across time, locations, or different photographers.

✨ You don’t need to start over. You just need the right photographer.

Ready to match your headshots? I’d love to help. Send me a message to chat!

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I get it—you’ve hired someone new, and now you need a matching headshot… but your original photographer is no longer available. 😬 Do you really have to start over and re-photograph the whole team? Not if you hire someone who knows how to recreate what’s already working. That’s where I come in. When a company calls me in to match an existing set of headshots, I study every detail of your current images so your new photos blend in flawlessly—like they were taken on the same day. Here’s what I focus on to make that happen: ✅ Lighting – Studio or natural? Soft, directional, or diffused? ✅ Background – Color, texture, and how sharp or blurry it is. ✅ Cropping & Composition – How close is the shot? What’s the framing like? ✅ Posing & Expression – Are your team members posed formally or relaxed and candid? ✅ Editing Style – Bright and airy? Bold and contrasty? Warm or cool tones? 📸 The result: a polished, consistent set of headshots that reflect your brand—even across time, locations, or different photographers. ✨ You don’t need to start over. You just need the right photographer. Ready to match your headshots? I’d love to help. Send me a message to chat!

This Mother’s Day, skip the flowers and give her something timeless—a moment, beautifully captured.

She’s been your biggest supporter, your soft place to land, your strength through every season of life.

And while you may not say it every day… you feel it deeply: the love, the gratitude, the bond that only grows stronger over time.

A family photo session isn’t just about the images.

It’s about carving out time to be present with each other.

It’s about documenting the connection, the laughter, the quiet strength, and the unspoken love that lives in every glance and every touch.

Whether you’re celebrating your mom, becoming one yourself, or honoring the memory of someone dear—these portraits become keepsakes.

Not just for now, but for years to come.

📸 Mother’s Day sessions are relaxed, natural, and designed to feel more like a meaningful experience than a posed shoot.

✨ Limited spots available—let’s create something she’ll treasure forever.

Let`s Connect to set up your FREE Consultation!

#mothersdaygift #mothersday2025 #familyphotos

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This Mother’s Day, skip the flowers and give her something timeless—a moment, beautifully captured. She’s been your biggest supporter, your soft place to land, your strength through every season of life. And while you may not say it every day… you feel it deeply: the love, the gratitude, the bond that only grows stronger over time. A family photo session isn’t just about the images. It’s about carving out time to be present with each other. It’s about documenting the connection, the laughter, the quiet strength, and the unspoken love that lives in every glance and every touch. Whether you’re celebrating your mom, becoming one yourself, or honoring the memory of someone dear—these portraits become keepsakes. Not just for now, but for years to come. 📸 Mother’s Day sessions are relaxed, natural, and designed to feel more like a meaningful experience than a posed shoot. ✨ Limited spots available—let’s create something she’ll treasure forever. Let's Connect to set up your FREE Consultation! #mothersdaygift #mothersday2025 #familyphotos

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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.