How Often Should You Update Your Professional Headshot?

Do I really need a new headshot?

The short answer? Probably yes.

Most professionals should update their headshot every 2–3 years, or sooner if something significant has changed.

Here are the biggest signs it’s time for a refresh.

You look different than your photo

If someone meets you and says, “Oh—you look different than your picture,” that’s your cue. Hairstyles, glasses, weight changes, or simply aging can make a headshot feel disconnected from who you are now.

Your role or career has changed

A job change, promotion, or career pivot often comes with a shift in how you want to be perceived. Your headshot should reflect where you are—not where you were.

Your photo feels dated

Trends change. Backgrounds change. Lighting styles evolve. If your headshot screams “five years ago,” it may be quietly working against you.

You’re using it more than ever

LinkedIn, company bios, Zoom profiles, speaking engagements—headshots get more visibility now than they used to. That alone makes keeping them current worthwhile.

The good news? Updating your headshot doesn’t have to be a big ordeal. Studio headshot sessions make it easy to refresh your image quickly and confidently.

5 Things to Know Before Your Headshot Session in Silver Spring, MD

A new headshot is one of the quickest ways to update your professional presence. Whether it’s LinkedIn, your website, or your company bio. And if you haven’t taken one in a while, it can feel a little nerve-wracking. The good news: you don’t need to “perform” or be naturally photogenic. You just need a few simple tips to help you feel prepared and at ease.

Here are five things I always share with clients before their headshot session in my Silver Spring, Maryland studio.

1. You don’t need to know how to pose

Most people come in worried about what to do with their hands, how to smile, or whether they’ll look awkward. That’s part of my job. I’ll guide your posture, angles, and expression in a way that feels natural and easy. You don’t have to practice anything ahead of time.

2. Bring one extra top—even if you think you won’t use it

A second option gives us flexibility with color, neckline, and texture. Sometimes the top you didn’t plan on ends up being the clear winner once we see it in the studio light. Bring 2–3 simple options and we’ll choose together.

3. Plan for simple grooming, not perfection

You don’t need to change anything about yourself to look good in a headshot. A quick brush of the hair, a bit of shine control, and clothes that feel comfortable go a long way. If you prefer professional makeup, go for a natural, polished look. Think “you, on a good day,” not a full glam session. Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry is right down the street and we can arrange for makeup ahead of time!

4. Leave extra time to get to the studio

My Silver Spring studio is easy to find with simple parking, but giving yourself a few extra minutes before your session makes a big difference. When you’re not rushing in, your shoulders drop, your breath slows, and you come in feeling grounded instead of flustered. That calm energy shows up in your pictures.

5. Think about how you want people to feel when they see your photo

Your headshot is more than a picture. It’s the first impression people have of your personality and your work. Do you want to appear warm? Confident? Approachable? Strong? Professional? We’ll talk about this before we start, and I’ll help guide you toward expressions and poses that match the story you want to tell.

A great headshot feels comfortable, confident, and true to who you are right now. If you’re ready for a fresh update, I’d love to photograph you in my Silver Spring, Maryland studio.

You can book your session right here.