We’ve all seen them: old headshots with different style (hair, clothes), filters, blurred resolution. Sometimes you don’t even know how old until someone comments. But in branding, that gap between “who you are now” and “who people see” matters. Here’s what you might be losing when your headshot is outdated.

1. Lost Credibility & Trust

People naturally trust someone who appears current, attentive, and relevant. An old photo can send unspoken signals: “Maybe they’re not keeping up,” “Maybe they are not confident enough in themselves” or “Maybe I’ll get what I saw.”
If clients are comparing providers, that little mismatch can tip them away.

2. Misaligned Expectations

If your image doesn’t match your current style, brand, or level of professionalism, you could be attracting people who expect something else; or repelling people who would love what you do now.
When you deliver but clients thought something different, something inside feels off.

3. Missed Connection

New potential clients want to know who they’re working with now, not your past version. Your present-moment image helps them envision working with you.
In networking spaces or local events, people may Google you. If they see images that don’t feel “you now,” the connection is weaker.

4. Opportunity Cost in Offers

When you're putting yourself out there (speaking, proposals, collaborations), often your image is part of your introduction. An old photo costs you the edge.
That edge might be whether someone clicks “hire” vs “keep looking.”

5. Confidence & Self-Perception

On a personal level: seeing yourself as who you are now helps you show up more confidently. It’s harder to speak your truth when part of you still feels anchored in past version or outdated branding.
As you grow, your visuals should grow with you; so your image keeps affirming your identity, not reminding you of what was.

If you’re hesitating, here’s a gentle challenge: pull up your current headshots. Do you feel like you? If not, maybe it’s time. There’s real power in showing up authentically. And your present-you headshot is part of that.

Photos 2-8 - hair and makeup by Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry