How to Take the Worst Headshot Ever (And Why You Really Shouldn’t)

Let’s have a laugh, shall we? Imagine this: a blurry selfie taken in the car, half-shadowed by the steering wheel, and topped off with a coffee stain on your shirt. That’s your LinkedIn profile pic. Cringe, right?

While that scenario might sound like a joke, you’d be surprised how many East Auckland professionals are using outdated, awkward, or just plain bad headshots to represent themselves online.

This blog is a cheeky walk-through of everything not to do when it comes to headshots — and why investing in a professional one isn’t just smart, it’s essential. At Nicoline Dickinson Photography, we help business owners, real estate agents, and professionals across East Auckland create headshots that open doors — not close them.

Key Takeaways

• Your headshot speaks volumes about your professionalism before you even say a word.
  
• Bad headshots can actually harm your credibility.
  
• Professional photos boost engagement and trust, especially on platforms like LinkedIn.
  
• A little preparation goes a long way in creating a strong first impression.
  
• Nicoline Dickinson Photography offers relaxed, expert headshot photography in East Auckland designed to show you at your best.
  

How to Take the Worst Headshot Ever: A Cautionary Guide

If you’re aiming for an image that screams “don’t hire me,” here’s the playbook:

1. Use an Old Wedding Snap
Nothing says professional quite like a blurry crop from your cousin’s big day… six years ago. Bonus points if you’re holding champagne.

2. Add Sunglasses
Because, of course, nothing builds trust like hiding your eyes — the actual windows to the soul.

3. Pick a Busy Background
A kitchen bench piled with dishes or a messy bedroom? Perfect for distracting the viewer from your face.

4. Let Your Phone Do All the Work
Tilt it up your nose, throw in some overhead lighting, and hope for the best. Maybe even a bathroom mirror shot for that extra “I don’t care” effect.

Why a Good Headshot Actually Matters

Let’s get serious for a moment. A headshot isn’t just a nice photo — it’s your personal brand. It’s the visual handshake you extend to potential clients, employers, or collaborators.

A New Zealand recruitment survey revealed that LinkedIn profiles with professional headshots receive 21 times more profile views and 36 times more messages than those without. That’s not marketing fluff — it’s a real advantage in a highly connected, digital-first business world.

First impressions matter. Whether you’re presenting at a conference, pitching a service, or applying for a role, your headshot is often the first thing people see. Don’t let it be the last.

What to Wear and How to Prepare for a Professional Shoot

Here’s where Nicoline comes in. Based right here in East Auckland, Nicoline Dickinson creates relaxed, natural, and polished headshots that capture both your personality and your professional presence.

Wardrobe Tips
Choose clothing that reflects your work style — whether that’s sharp corporate or smart casual. Stick to solid colours that won’t distract, and avoid busy patterns or logos.

Hair and Grooming
A tidy haircut, groomed facial hair, and clean, fresh makeup (if applicable) will help you look your best. Don’t try a new look the day before — stick to what feels like you.

Mindset Matters
Don’t worry if you’re camera-shy. Nicoline’s easygoing manner helps people feel comfortable and confident during their shoot. Most sessions are quick, and you’ll even enjoy yourself.

Shoot Day Expectations
Whether you’re coming into the studio in Howick or booking an on-location session at your office, Nicoline ensures everything runs smoothly. From lighting to posture guidance, she takes care of the technical side — you just need to show up ready to shine.

But I Have a Decent Phone Camera — Isn’t That Enough?

Short answer? Nope. While phone cameras have come a long way, they still can’t compete with the professional quality and eye for detail that a seasoned photographer offers.

Natural light, composition, posing, retouching — these aren’t just “extras.” They’re the difference between a so-so image and one that gets noticed for all the right reasons.

In fact, a recent New Zealand business branding report found that businesses and individuals using professionally shot imagery saw a 45% higher engagement rate across social media platforms. If you’re serious about standing out, your profile photo needs to reflect that same level of quality.

In a world where people Google you before they greet you, don’t let a dodgy headshot be the reason someone scrolls past. You wouldn’t wear jandals to a board meeting — so don’t show up online looking like you’re off to the beach.

A professional headshot is an investment in your personal brand, and it pays off in visibility, trust, and opportunity. Whether you’re an East Auckland local building a business, climbing the corporate ladder, or simply wanting to look like the expert you are, Nicoline Dickinson Photography has got you covered.

Ready to bin that old selfie and step up your image?

📞 Call Nicoline on 027 261 3589
📧 Email info@nicoline.co.nz
💻 Or enquire online at https://nicoline.co.nz/contact-me/

Let’s create a headshot that does justice to the professional you’ve worked so hard to become.