How a Good Headshot Can Seriously Change How People See You Online

Most of us have Googled ourselves at some point, right? And more often than not, that one random photo from five years ago somehow ends up being the first thing people see. The lighting’s off, your eyes are kind of half-shut, and it’s definitely not giving “professional.” But here’s the thing: in today’s online-first world, your headshot is your first impression. And yeah, it can totally shape the way people think about you—whether they’re a potential client, employer, or collaborator.

Hi, I'm Jonny Donovan—and trust me, a polished headshot doesn’t have to be boring or stiff. It just has to feel like you on a good day.

You’re More Than a Zoom Screenshot

We’ve all done it—cropped a screenshot from a Zoom call and called it our “new profile picture.” It’s quick, it's easy, and it kinda works. But the difference between that and a professionally taken photo? Night and day.As a corporate headshot photographer, I’ve met so many people who walk into a shoot saying, “I hate photos of myself.” But once they see the result—something clean, relaxed, and natural—they’re blown away. A good headshot can make you feel confident about putting yourself out there. And that’s half the battle, right?

First Impressions Happen Online Now

Before someone meets you in person or even hops on a call, they’ve probably looked you up. Your website, your LinkedIn, maybe even your Instagram. And whether we like it or not, people do judge books by their covers. A grainy or outdated photo might send the wrong message (even if you’re super qualified and amazing at what you do).That’s why having an updated headshot matters. Not one where you look totally different or unapproachable—but one that shows your personality in a professional way. It’s not about being “perfect”—it’s about being real.

People Want to Know Who They’re Working With

Let’s say you’re hiring someone for a big project. You check out their site. You see a name, a blurb, and...no photo. Or worse, a photo that feels super awkward. Do you feel that instant trust? Probably not.A good headshot helps put a face to a name and makes the interaction feel human. Whether you’re a creative freelancer, a startup founder, or a team leader—people want to feel like they know you. And honestly, a good photo helps bridge that gap.

Events and Conferences Are a Whole Different Game

Alright, shifting gears for a second—because if we’re talking about visibility, events are a big one. A lot of people forget that their online presence also includes photos from panels, workshops, and company events.As a conference photographer in London, I’ve worked with professionals who needed photos that didn’t just capture “a person speaking at a podium.” They wanted energy, moments, real reactions. Photos that show them doing what they’re great at.

Those images? They’re gold for your website, your social media, your newsletter—basically anywhere you’re trying to show your credibility. And they’re way better than the usual blurry shots someone took from the fifth row.

You Don’t Need to Look “Corporate” to Look Professional

One thing I always say: professional doesn’t mean stiff. You don’t need a dark suit, a gray backdrop, and a forced smile. Your photo can be relaxed, warm, and still totally professional.If you’re more into natural light and chill vibes than studio lighting and fake poses—great. That’s the kind of shoot I love doing. We’ll find a background that fits your style, we’ll keep it easygoing, and we’ll get shots that actually feel like you. Because that’s what people connect with.

It’s a Confidence Boost (Even If You Don’t Expect It)

There’s something about having a photo you actually like. Something you’re proud to share, whether it’s on your “About” page or your email signature. I’ve had people tell me after a shoot that it made them feel like they’re “finally showing up as the real version of themselves online.”That’s the goal. You don’t need to fake it. You just need the right photo to back you up.

Wrapping It Up

So yeah, a good headshot isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s part of your online story. It’s a way to show people who you are before you even say a word. Whether you’re leading a team, launching your own thing, or just trying to level up your LinkedIn—don’t let a blurry photo do the talking for you.If you’re in or around London and looking for something relaxed, modern, and not-at-all awkward, I’d love to help you out. Head to Jonny Donovan to check out my work and book a session. Let’s make sure your photo actually looks—and feels—like you.