How Often Should You Update Your Headshot?

A great headshot is more than a nice photo—it’s a visual handshake. Whether you're networking, job hunting, speaking at events, or building a personal brand, your headshot should reflect how you look right now.

So, how often should you update your headshot?

The Short Answer: Every 1–2 Years

For most professionals, we recommend updating your headshot every 1 to 2 years. This keeps your online presence current and helps you maintain a consistent, trustworthy image across LinkedIn, company websites, and social media.

But there are a few key situations that might call for an update sooner.

5 Signs It’s Time for a New Headshot

  1. You’ve Changed Your Look
    If you've cut or colored your hair, grown a beard, started wearing glasses, or made any major style changes, your headshot should reflect that. You want people to recognize you in real life!

  2. It’s Been More Than Two Years
    Even if you look the same, technology and photography styles change. A fresh headshot with modern lighting, posing, and retouching can elevate your professional presence.

  3. You’ve Switched Careers or Roles
    A new job or industry often means a new personal brand. A creative entrepreneur and a corporate executive probably won’t want the same vibe in their photos.

  4. You’re Using a Selfie or a Crop from a Group Photo
    It’s time. Seriously. A high-quality, professionally lit image says you're invested in yourself and your career.

  5. You Don’t Feel Represented by Your Current Photo
    If your current headshot feels stiff, outdated, or just “not you,” that’s a sign you’re due for a refresh. You deserve to look confident and approachable.

How Often Do Professionals in Virginia & DC Update Their Headshots?

In the fast-paced DC Metro area, professionals across industries—law, tech, government, real estate, and creative fields—tend to refresh their headshots every 12–18 months, especially if they’re active online or regularly attend conferences and networking events.

B. Keith Photography Makes It Easy to Stay Up to Date

At B. Keith Photography, we offer a range of headshot session options designed to fit your schedule and style—from fast studio refreshes to full branding sessions. We’ll help you look like your best, most professional self—without heavy retouching or artificial results.

Located in Virginia and serving the DC Metro area, we’re here to make the process simple, comfortable, and even a little fun.

Final Thoughts

A great headshot is an investment in your brand. Whether you're climbing the ladder, switching industries, or just want to show up more confidently online, having an up-to-date image matters.

If it’s been a while, or if you’re unsure your current photo still reflects who you are, now’s the perfect time to schedule a new session.

Ready for a Refresh?

Let’s create a headshot that looks like you, on your best day. Click here or call/text to get a custom quote for your headshot session in the DC Metro Area.

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