24 Jun 2025

CV Photos - How to Choose, Create, and Use a Photo That Gets You Hired

If you are a job seeker, how you present yourself visually can impact whether your CV makes it to the next stage or not. While skills and experience form the core of your application, your CV photo can leave a powerful first impression. Your hiring manager sees your CV photo before reading a single word on your CV. According to studies, recruiters spend just 6–8 seconds scanning a CV, making visual clarity and professionalism critical from the first glance. Having a professional photo communicates professionalism, confidence, and attention to detail all within a matter of seconds.

Although the inclusion of a photo is considered standard practice in many industries and professional circles, its effectiveness depends on factors such as quality, placement, and presentation. A poorly chosen image can unintentionally harm your chances, whereas a polished, well-positioned photo can help elevate your application above the rest.

In this post, we will learn more about CV photos, how to create them, and where to place them in your CV. We will also share an AI headshot generator tool that helps you create a professional headshot for your CV without hiring a photographer, investing in costly equipment, or renting a studio.

Why Your CV Photo Might Be Hurting Your Application

A poorly chosen photo can do more harm than good. Some common issues that create negative first impressions are -

  • Low-quality images that appear pixelated or blurry
  • Unprofessional attire or overly casual clothing
  • Distracting backgrounds, such as cluttered rooms or outdoor settings
  • Improper lighting, making the image look dull or shadowy
  • Unfriendly or inappropriate expressions
  • Selfies, vacation photos, or outdated photos

Even if your qualifications are perfect, a bad photo can make you seem less polished or serious about the job opportunity.

What Makes a Good CV Photo?

A good CV photo should include the following elements -

Background - Keep it neutral and uncluttered. For example, white, light gray.

Lighting - Always opt for natural light or studio-quality lighting. Ensure there are no harsh shadows.

Outfit - Keep your outfit professional or business-casual, depending on industry norms.

Posture and Expression - Maintain a straight posture, soft smile, and a confident but approachable demeanor

Framing - Keep your head and shoulders visible. Aim towards achieving a centered image.

two headshots of a woman in a gray sweater (left) and a blue shirt (right)

Where to Place Your CV Photo (with Template Examples)

The placement of your CV photo is not just a design choice. It subtly shapes how recruiters perceive your profile at first glance. Each position has a different psychological and visual impact.

Choosing the right position to place your photo in CV depends on your industry, role, and CV layout. Here are the most common photo placements with matching template examples and what each communicates.

1 - Top-Left Corner

This is where most people begin reading a document. Placing your photo here ensures it is seen immediately. This position is ideal for making a quick, strong personal impression. It helps humanize your CV without overpowering your name or summary. It is the best for traditional industries like law, finance, and administration.

Some of the common template types that follow this photo placement are -

Clean Sidebar CV with Photo

A minimal, two-column layout where the left column holds your photo, contact details, and skills. It keeps the main section clean while ensuring visual balance.

clean sidebar cv with a photo

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ATS-Friendly CV with Discreet Photo

This template is designed to work well with applicant tracking systems. The top-left image is small and subtle, ensuring the CV stays scannable and text-focused.

<img src="/images/blogs/ats-friendly-cv.jpg" alt="ATS friendly CV with discreet photo" loading="lazy" width="800" style="width: 400px;"class="my-4"/>

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2 - Top-Right Corner

This layout keeps the focus on your name and summary as it is typically on the left side. The photo provides a softer, supportive visual. This placement is ideal for modern CVs with structured content blocks. It conveys professionalism with minimal distraction that makes it great for corporate jobs or academic applications where tone matters.

Some of the common template types that follow this cv photo placement are -

Minimal CV with Top-Right Photo

A clean, single-column template where your photo complements the design. The balanced white space gives it a refined, no-fuss feel that is perfect for consulting, marketing, or mid-level roles.

minimal CV with top-right photo

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Academic or Research CV with Small Headshot

A research or education-focused layout where a small headshot adds personality without stealing attention from publications or experience.

academic or research CV with small headshot

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3 - Header - Banner or Center-Aligned

This layout puts your photo at the very top, usually beside your name or contact info, making it impossible to miss. It signals confidence and modern personal branding. It is ideal for roles where personality and visual presentation matter—like design, content, PR, or leadership.

Some of the most common template types that follow this cv photo placement are-

Corporate CV with Profile Banner

This CV template type combines your name, title, and headshot in a full-width header. It gives your CV a polished, LinkedIn-style feel which is strong for executive and leadership profiles.

corporate CV with profile banner

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Gradient Modern CV Template

It uses subtle background gradients with your photo placed in the center or top banner. A great match for marketing professionals or creatives who want a standout look.

gradient modern CV template

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4 - Sidebar or Vertical Column

Placing your photo in a sidebar makes it part of a visual anchor. It keeps the focus on your experience while offering quick access to personal info, skills, and your image. It offers a contemporary, space-saving layout perfect for multi-skilled candidates or creative fields.

Some of the most common template types that follow this cv photo placement are-

Multi-Column CV with Photo Highlight

This resume features a dynamic layout often with two or three columns that allows for visual balance and creativity. Your photo adds personality without dominating the layout.

multi column CV with photo highlight

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Color-Blocked Creative CV Template

A visually bold template that uses color accents and a side photo frame. It is ideal for designers, UX/UI professionals, or copywriters who want to blend function with flair.

color blocked creative CV template

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How to Create a Professional CV Photo Without a Photographer

Creating a professional-looking CV photo no longer requires an expensive session with a photographer. Thanks to modern AI headshot generator tool like Headshot Photo, you can transform a casual selfie into a studio-quality image with just a few clicks at the comfort of your homes. Headshot Photo uses artificial intelligence to convert your selfie into a professional headshot. It can enhance your photo by adjusting lighting, sharpening facial features, removing distracting backgrounds, and applying subtle corrections to give you a polished and professional appearance.

Headshot Photo is preferred by many professionals for generating their CV photos for the following reasons.

  • It is highly convenient. You can take your photo from the comfort of your home using just your phone.
  • It is cost-effective, offering a far more affordable option compared to professional photography.
  • The entire process of photo creation is quick and efficient, delivering high-quality results within minutes.
  • You can choose from multiple variations of your image with different backgrounds and lighting styles, helping you find the right look for your industry or role.

To get the best results, it is recommended you take a well-lit selfie taken in natural light. Choose a clean, neutral background and wear professional or business-casual attire appropriate to your field. Keep your posture upright and your expression confident and approachable. Avoid over-editing or flashy filters, and let the AI enhance your image with subtle, realistic improvements.

Wrapping Up

A thoughtfully chosen CV photo can elevate your application and create a strong, lasting first impression. While your qualifications and experience are the core of your CV, a professional image adds a human touch that enhances credibility and visual appeal. By avoiding common photo mistakes, following basic composition principles, and choosing a clean, well-balanced template, you can ensure that your image supports rather than distracts from your achievements. And with the help of AI headshot tools like Headshot Photo, getting a polished, high-quality photo has never been easier or more accessible.

Remember, the right photo paired with the right CV layout can make your application more engaging and increase your chances of landing that interview. Generate the perfect photo for your CV with Headshot Photo. Create your AI headshot now!

FAQs

1. Should I include a photo on my CV?

It depends on the industry and the region where you are applying. In many parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, a photo is expected. However, in countries like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., it is often discouraged due to anti-discrimination policies. Always research the local norms before including a photo.

2. Can I use a selfie for my CV?

Technically yes, but it is not recommended. Selfies often lack the quality and professionalism of a properly composed headshot. For best results, use a polished image with good lighting and a neutral background—ideally created using a professional or AI headshot tool.

3. What size should my CV photo be?

Your photo should be roughly passport-size or slightly larger. A good size to aim for is around 2 x 2 inches or 600 x 600 pixels, ensuring it is clear and well-aligned with the rest of your layout.

4. What should I wear in my CV photo?

Your outfit should reflect the professional standards of your target industry. Generally, business or smart-casual attire works best. Avoid patterns that are too bold or accessories that draw attention away from your face.

5. Can I use the same photo on my LinkedIn profile and CV?

Yes. In fact, it is encouraged. Using the same professional headshot across platforms creates consistency, which helps recruiters recognize and remember you more easily.

6. Do recruiters reject candidates whose CV photo is AI-generated?

No, most recruiters are not concerned if your photo was AI-generated as long as it looks professional, feels authentic, and fits your industry.

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