should cover letter include picture

Guide to Resume Photos: When to Use Them, Best Practices, and Common Mistakes

In This Guide:

Should you include a photo on your resume.

What do experts say?

Best practices for adding a photo to a resume

How to take a great resume photo, resume photos with ai, how to add a photo to your resume, resume photo mistakes to avoid, alternatives to including a photo.

It’s best not to include a photo on your resume, especially if you’re applying in the US. Experts say it can lead to bias and doesn't add value to your qualifications. However, resume photo norms vary by country and industry, so it’s worth checking local practices before deciding.

Including a photo on your resume can have a big impact  on how recruiters perceive your application. In some regions, like Europe, adding a photo to your CV is almost expected and can help you stand out. However, in places like the US, Canada, and the UK, it might work against you by introducing potential bias.

Since resume photo standards vary widely across the globe, it’s crucial to know when it’s appropriate. In this guide, we’ll help you decide whether to put a photo on your resume, how to do it if you choose to, and the common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring you make the best possible impression on hiring managers.

Key takeaways

• In some regions like Europe, adding a photo to your resume is expected and can make your application stand out. In the US, Canada, and the UK, however, it might lead to bias and is often not recommended.
• Certain fields, like hospitality and entertainment, often favor including a resume photo, while more conservative industries like law and academia generally don’t.
• Including a photo might introduce unconscious bias and, in some cases, can disrupt ATS, so think carefully about whether it’s needed.
• Instead of adding a photo directly to your resume, consider linking to your LinkedIn profile or a professional portfolio to provide a visual reference without cluttering your resume.
• If you decide to add a photo, make sure it’s high-quality and professional, aligning with the standards of your industry and the specific role you're applying for.

Before we go on, let's clarify something important. There will be a lot of talk about resume practices, and we know that our international readers may have different understandings of resumes and CVs.

Here's a quick breakdown:

Resume pictures in different countries

When it comes to adding a photo to your resume, what's common or expected can vary greatly depending on where you're applying.

Countries where resume photos are omitted

In these regions, resume images are generally frowned upon. The focus is on skills and experience, and there’s a strong emphasis on avoiding any potential bias during the hiring process.

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Republic of South Africa
• Netherlands

In low-context cultures , like those listed above, communication tends to be more direct, and the emphasis is placed on explicit information rather than on non-verbal cues or contextual factors. This translates to the job application process, where the focus is on your experience and skills, not so much on appearance or personal background. Including a photo in these contexts might distract from your core competencies, leading to misinterpretation.

Regions where resume photos are common

For Americans seeking jobs outside the US, it's important to consider adding a photo to your resume. In many countries, omitting a photo could make your application stand out in a less favorable way, as employers there see photos as part of a complete candidate profile.

• Most countries in Latin America

Resume photos across industries

Whether or not you should include a photo on your resume often depends on the industry you’re targeting. In some fields, your appearance can influence how you’re perceived, making a professional photo a valuable addition to your application.

Industries that value appearance

• Hospitality
• Advertising and public relations
• Sales (customer-facing roles)
• Media and entertainment

For resumes in modeling  and  acting , it’s crucial to include the right type of photos. Typically, you’ll need a high-quality headshot (usually 8x10 inches) and, for modeling, a full-length photo that shows your entire body.

When attaching these photos to your resume, avoid embedding them directly in the document, as this can affect formatting. Instead, include them as separate, clearly labeled attachments or provide a link to an online portfolio  where recruiters can view your full range of photos.

Industries where photos are strongly discouraged

For conservative fields like those below, it's best to let your experience and skills do the talking and skip the photo altogether. A photo isn’t only unnecessary but can detract from your professional credentials.

• Engineering
• Administration

Why experts say you shouldn’t include a photo in your resume

Including a photo on your resume is generally discouraged, especially in the US, due to strict labor laws aimed at preventing discrimination .

Here’s why it’s better to leave your photo off:

• Avoiding bias and discrimination : No matter how professional they are, HR specialists are still human and can be influenced by subconscious biases  related to race, gender, age, and appearance. To ensure all candidates have an equal chance, many companies prefer to exclude personal information , including photos, from resumes.
• Social media checks : If your resume catches a recruiter’s eye, they’re likely to do a social media background check . That’s why many candidates include a LinkedIn profile link —this allows hiring managers to learn more about you while keeping the focus on your professional achievements.
• Perception of professionalism : Photos on resumes can be seen as unprofessional, suggesting you’re relying on your appearance rather than your qualifications. Unless you’re applying for a role where looks are essential, a photo adds little value and takes up space better used for showcasing your experience  and skills.
• Distraction from key information : With HR professionals spending an average of just 7.4 seconds on an initial resume scan , a photo can distract them from the critical details about your qualifications and experience.
• Issues with applicant tracking systems (ATS) : While most ATS software can handle resume photos  without issues, it's still best to avoid including one. An image can distract from the content, and in rare cases, disrupt parsing.

Photos on resumes generally don’t affect ATS scanning , but some systems can struggle with smaller details like date formats, the use of commas versus spaces between skills (commas work better), or even bullet points. To ensure your resume performs well, use Enhancv’s free ATS checker  to see how it measures up against real applicant tracking systems.

If you’re in an industry where a resume photo is important, be mindful of these best practices:

• Use a high-resolution, professional-looking photo to ensure quality and make a strong first impression.
• Dress appropriately for the job role and industry to align your appearance with the position you’re applying for.
• Match your resume photo with your LinkedIn profile picture to maintain consistent personal branding across platforms.
• Avoid selfies and casual photos, as informal images can undermine your professionalism.
• Remove distracting elements by keeping the focus on your face, not on the background or accessories.
• Ensure your photo is appropriately sized and placed to complement your resume without overshadowing the content.

So, you’ve decided that adding a photo to your resume will give you that extra edge in landing your dream job. But now you’re wondering—how should it look? From the right attire to the perfect lighting, here’s how to ensure your resume photo makes a great impression.

Clothes and grooming

Start by dressing the part. Choose clothes that match the vibe of the job you’re applying for. For formal positions, go with a suit or a clean dress shirt paired with a simple jacket. Neutral colors are your best bet—they’re professional and won’t distract from your face. Make sure your hair is neat, and if you wear makeup, keep it subtle and natural.

Lighting and background

Lighting is everything in a photo. Aim for natural, soft lighting to avoid harsh shadows or overly bright spots. Position yourself facing a window or use a well-lit room. The background should be neutral and quiet—a plain wall works perfectly. This way, the focus stays on you, not on what’s behind you.

Expression and posture

When it comes to your expression, keep it simple. A neutral facial expression or a gentle smile works best. You want to appear approachable and professional, so avoid overly dramatic expressions. Sit or stand up straight with a relaxed posture. Confidence is key, but you don’t want to look stiff.

Resolution and format

Your photo should be high-resolution—at least 300 dpi—to ensure it looks sharp and professional both on screen and in print. Stick to common formats like JPEG or PNG for easy uploading and compatibility. The best resume picture size is 2-by-2 inches; it’s large enough to make an impact but small enough to keep the focus on your resume content.

Editing and enhancements

After you’ve taken your photo, a little editing can go a long way. Adjust the brightness and contrast to make sure the image is clear and well-lit. But be careful not to overdo it—you want to look like yourself, not a heavily edited version.

AI-generated resume photos can be a convenient solution if you don't have access to professional photography. For example, tools like Headshot Pro allow you to create a polished headshot from your selfies by enhancing your appearance with natural lighting, background adjustments, and retouching.

While it's generally acceptable to use these AI tools, it's crucial that the final portrait looks natural and professional, not overly stylized or unrealistic. Make sure the photo aligns with the job you're applying for and accurately reflects your true self in a way that’s appropriate for your industry.

Make this your resume

Use Enhancv’s Resume Builder and make a resume that stands out.

Before we dive into the different processes for adding a photo to your resume, here's a shortcut: if you choose any of our resume templates with a photo  option, you can easily upload and position your image with just a few clicks, saving you time and hassle.

Now, let's explore the detailed steps for using resume builders and manually inserting photos in Word or PDF formats.

Using resume builders: adding a photo with Enhancv

• Begin by choosing a resume template  from our wide range of layouts, all designed to accommodate a headshot. Click the “Start with this example” button in the top right corner.
• In the resume builder, find the green upload button and click to upload your image directly from your computer. The app will automatically adjust the size and placement for a perfect fit.
• Click on the header  and select the gear icon. From there, you can easily add or remove the photo and choose its shape—round or square—to match your resume’s style.

Adding a photo in traditional formats

Most Word resume templates don’t come with built-in photo options. If you’re creating your resume in Word or converting it to a PDF , inserting an image requires a bit more manual effort.

Here’s how to do it:

• Choose a layout and decide   where you want your photo to appear. Typically, the top-right or top-left corner is ideal, as it keeps the focus on your contact information and headline.
• Go to the "Insert" tab and click on "Picture." Select your photo from your files. The image will appear on your document, and you can drag it to your desired position.
• Click on the photo to adjust its size. To maintain a professional appearance, ensure the image isn’t too large—about 2x2 inches is generally recommended. Use the "Picture Tools" format tab to add a border or adjust the brightness and contrast if necessary.
• To keep the layout clean, right-click on the photo and select "Text Wrapping." Choose “Square” or “Tight” to wrap the text around the photo without disrupting the flow of your resume’s content.
• Save the finished file as a PDF to preserve the formatting. Go to "File" > "Save As" and select PDF as the file type.

If you’re using a resume builder like Enhancv , the platform will help maintain consistency between your photo and the overall design. In Word, be mindful of the font sizes, margins, and spacing to ensure your photo fits seamlessly into the layout.

Here are the most common mistakes when it comes to pictures on resumes:

Selfie angle

Wearing a hat or heavy makeup

Poor lighting or backlight

Casual or inappropriate clothing

Distracting backgrounds

Wearing sunglasses

For a great resume photo, choose a neutral background and wear formal clothes. If you have glasses, make sure they don’t block your face. Smile gently, keep a relaxed posture, and go for a portrait shot to look both professional and approachable. Like the one here:

If you’d prefer not to include a photo on your resume, several effective alternatives can still showcase your professional image:

• LinkedIn profile links:  Include a link to your LinkedIn profile, where a professional photo isn’t just accepted but recommended. This allows recruiters to view your photo if they choose while keeping your resume focused on your qualifications.
• Business cards and networking resumes:  At job fairs or networking events, consider handing out business cards or a specialized networking resume  with your photo. This provides a visual reference that helps the people you meet remember you more easily afterward.
• Portfolio links:  For creative roles, link to an online portfolio that features images of your work and a professional photo of yourself. This approach highlights your creative abilities while providing a professional image without cluttering your resume .

Deciding whether to include a photo on your resume depends on where you’re applying and the industry you’re targeting. Always consider what’s standard practice in your field and region, and choose the option that best showcases your professionalism. When in doubt, a polished LinkedIn profile or portfolio link can often be the perfect alternative.

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Should You Include a Picture on a Resume?

6 min read · Updated on October 03, 2024

Will including a picture on your resume help or hurt your chances of getting hired?

Should you put a photograph on your resume? If you've already added a photo to your LinkedIn profile, it's only natural to wonder if including a headshot picture on your resume will improve your chances of getting noticed and hired.

While there isn't a universal rule about including a picture on a resume, below are some guidelines that will help you to understand when a photo belongs on your resume - and when it's in your best interest to remove it from your job application altogether. 

When you should not include a picture on your resume

When it comes to including pictures on resumes, you'll find that HR professionals and professional resume writers agree that a resume should not include a photograph. There are exceptions, of course, which are explained further below. However, generally speaking, you should not put a picture on your resume. 

Why is a picture on a resume considered a bad idea? 

Some countries, like the United States, have strict labor and anti-discrimination laws. Since your photo will likely reveal your race, gender, and age - among other factors - that could inadvertently lead to discrimination in the hiring process, it makes employers in these countries uncomfortable when they see your picture on a resume. Plus, there's no need to provide an employer with those types of details before they've considered your application based solely on your qualifications. In fact, many employers try to avoid discrimination claims and unconscious bias in their recruitment process by disregarding resumes that contain photos.

In addition, some recruiters consider candidates who include headshots to be egotistical at best and lacking sound judgment at worst. When TopResume asked recruiters, hiring managers, and human resources executives, “What are your biggest resume 'deal-breakers' that can cost a candidate the job?”, “including a headshot” made the list of top 10 worst resume offenses . 

Additional reasons to not include a picture on your resume are:

They take up valuable space

They might impact an applicant tracking system's ability to read your resume

When you should include a picture on your resume

While it's typically a bad idea to include a picture on your resume, there are a few situations when a headshot does belong on your resume or as part of your overall job application: 

Headshot requirement : If you're applying for a job in the entertainment industry (e.g. models, actors, dancers) and your “look” is part of the job, then you should include a photograph of yourself. However, don't put the photo directly on your resume unless requested to do so; rather, include the image as part of your overall application. If you have an online portfolio of your work, it's perfectly acceptable - and encouraged - to include a link to your site at the top of your resume, along with your other contact details. 

International applications : If you're seeking a position outside of the United States, you'll find that some countries will expect your CV to include a photo of yourself. These include member countries in the European Union (EU); Latin America (e.g. Brazil, Venezuela, Peru, Argentina), with the exception of Mexico; Southeast Asia (e.g. Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam); and the Middle East (e.g. Turkey, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). 

If you're unclear whether it's ok to incorporate a picture on a resume in your country, it's best to err on the side of caution and not include one. If an employer really wants a photo as part of the application process, they'll ask for one. Also, the majority of recruiters and hiring managers will search for you online if they're considering you for an interview, so they'll likely see a photo of you on your social profiles . 

Tips for selecting the best picture for your resume

If you're planning to apply for a position in a country or profession where a resume photo is standard, then you should follow the same guidelines you would when selecting a photo for your LinkedIn profile . When deciding which headshot to use, keep the following elements in mind:

Professional : The selfie you took with your friends at the bar last weekend is not appropriate for your job search. Instead, choose a professional-looking, high-resolution photo in which your outfit complements the industry you're pursuing. If you're short on funds or simply not interested in investing in a professional headshot, ask a friend who owns a decent camera to take a picture of you in a well-lit area and with a simple backdrop that won't compete with your face for attention. 

Relevant : While you may love how you look in an older photo, you're better off if you opt for a recent photo of yourself - and only yourself. Employers don't expect - or want - to see a family photo or other group shot on your resume, and they aren't interested in a headshot that's a decade old. Your photo should reflect what you look like now .

• Cropped : Remember, your photo should be a headshot, rather than a full-length body shot. Select a photo where your face takes up approximately 60% of the frame. Crop the image from just below the top of your shoulders to just above your head, so that the emphasis is placed on your face.

AI can be a powerful tool to help you select and update a resume photo so that it covers all of the above criteria. There are several free AI-photo generator tools, like Canva, that you can use. Referring to an AI content generator, like ChatGPT, can also guide you in whether you should or should not be using a photo for your type of role or industry.

Do I fall in the include or don't include a photo category?

If you don't know whether to include a picture on your resume, you're not alone. There are so many nuances when it comes to writing an effective resume for today's job market that it's hard for anyone other than a professional writer to keep track. If you decide to work with a professional resume writer, trust that they are trained to apply the current resume writing best practices to your document . 

Why not submit your resume for a free review to ensure it covers all the nuances required to write an effective resume? Our team of professional resume writers is here to provide the expertise you need. 

This article was originally written by Amanda Augustine and has been updated by Ronda Suder.

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