Seriously. Get a professional LinkedIn headshot.

Portsmouth – LinkedIn serves a diverse population of over 225 million, and their profile photos prove it: bungee jumpers, athletes, champagne toasting best men and endless women unsuccessful in fully cropping their BFFs’ shoulders from view.

In an online sharing-centered culture, opportunity to boast – I mean post – one’s latest accomplishment is limitless. What are devoted marathoner runners, proud new parents and gregarious partygoers to do when it comes to choosing a LinkedIn profile photo? According to Lisa George, Human Resources Manager at Edelstein & Company, in Boston, that answer is simple: “Keep your personal life out of your profile photo, and invest in a professional headshot. A LinkedIn photo should say I want to hire or do business with this person not join his fraternity."

Think of it this way. Your first interview suit, designer or not, likely stung your wallet, but jeans and sunglasses certainly did not score you that job. Like suits, “A headshot is an investment in you and your career; work with the best photographer that fits your budget,” says Todd Ward, of Todd Ward Studios, in Hooksett. Most sittings occur in a photographer's studio; however, executive team or company-wide photos are often shot on location. Expect to receive a CD or digital file with anywhere from one to three poses of your choice.

Seacoast area photographers offer some advice: avoid glamour shots, low cut blouses and fan blown hair. Wear interview attire. Writers, designers and entrepreneurs have more leeway; a suit may not be necessary. However, a business analyst does not wear scuba gear to an interview, so skip it in a business headshot. Most photographers will hire a make up artist for an additional cost, but do not overdo it. Keep your smile natural and above all – relax. Check out these three highly rated local headshot photographers, for every budget.

Mallory Parkington Photography: Malloryparkington.com

Matt Berkowitz Photography: Mattberkowitz.com

Memories Studio: Memoriesstudio.com
   

Janice Henderson is a freelance writer, 401(k), health benefits and human resource editor, living in Portsmouth.