What’s the Difference Between a Headshot and a Portrait?

A headshot is a tight, professional image designed for clarity and credibility, often used on LinkedIn, company websites, and profiles.

A portrait tells a different story. It’s broader and more expressive, showing more of you, your environment, or personality.

Both serve different purposes — and choosing the right one depends on how you plan to use the image.

What Is a Professional Headshot?

A headshot is typically:

• Tighter image, cropped from the chest up

• Clean and distraction-free

• Focused on expression, eye contact, and presence

• Most often with a solid backdrop

Headshots are commonly used for:

• LinkedIn profiles

• Company websites

• Team pages

• Speaker bios

• Press or media features

The goal of a headshot is immediate trust and professionalism.

What Is a Portrait?

A portrait shows more of the person and often more context.

Portraits may include:

• More of the body (3/4 or full-length)

• Environmental backgrounds

• Movement or lifestyle elements

• Not always looking directly into the camera

Portraits are often used for:

• Personal branding

• Websites and marketing materials

• Editorial features

• Creative or lifestyle storytelling

The goal of a portrait is connection and personality, not just identification.

Which One Do You Need?

That depends on your goals.

You may want a headshot if:

• You need a clean, professional image

• Your industry is more traditional

• You’re updating an outdated profile photo

You may want a portrait if:

• You’re building a personal brand

• You want more versatility for marketing

• Your want to show people what it looks like to work with you

My branding sessions include headshots and promotional portraits. This way you have all your bases covered.

Headshots vs. Personal Branding Photography

Personal branding sessions often include:

• A polished headshot

• Lifestyle portraits

• Images designed for specific uses (website, social, speaking, etc.)

This approach gives you flexibility while keeping your visual presence consistent.

Check out my Personal Branding Photography for more information

Final Thought

A headshot and a portrait aren’t better or worse — they’re tools.
The right choice depends on how you want to be seen and where the image will live.