Top 10 DIY Headshot Tips for a Professional Look

Lola Lin

Lola Lin

July 10, 2025

5 min read

A DIY headshot is a great way to get a professional photo without spending money on a photographer. No matter if you're updating your LinkedIn profile or need a headshot for work, these tips will help you take a great photo at home. DIY headshots can look just as good as professional ones when done right. With the right lighting, angles, and setup, your DIY headshot will stand out. Let’s dig in to the top 10 DIY headshot tips to level up your professional image.

DIY headshot setup

1. Find the Right Lighting

Lighting is key for a good DIY headshot. Natural light works best, so try standing near a window or in a shady spot outside. Avoid direct sunlight as it can create harsh shadows.

  • Key tips:
    1. Use soft, diffused light for a flattering look.
    2. Avoid overhead lighting that creates unflattering shadows.
    3. Try a ring light if natural light isn’t available.

For more lighting tips, check out this guide on natural light for headshots.

Use Assembo.ai to Create Custom Backgrounds

2. Use Assembo.ai to Create Custom Backgrounds

Assembo.ai is a handy tool for testing different backgrounds for your DIY headshot. Upload your photo and see how it looks with various professional backdrops.

  • How it works:
    1. Upload your headshot.
    2. Choose from different background options.
    3. Adjust lighting and colors to match your style.

Learn more about Assembo.ai and its features.

Smartphone camera settings

3. Optimize Your Smartphone Camera

Modern smartphones have great cameras for DIY headshots. Use portrait mode to blur the background and focus on your face.

  • Key settings:
    1. Use the highest resolution available.
    2. Enable grid lines for better composition.
    3. Tap to focus on your face for sharpness.

For more smartphone tips, see how to take a professional headshot at home.

Headshot posing tips

4. Master the Right Pose

Posing can make or break your DIY headshot. Keep your shoulders back and tilt your chin slightly down for a natural look.

  • Posing tips:
    1. Stand up straight to look confident.
    2. Angle your body slightly for a more dynamic shot.
    3. Relax your face for a natural expression.

Get more posing ideas from this headshot guide.

Professional outfit for headshots

5. Dress Professionally

Your outfit should match the professional tone of your DIY headshot. Stick to solid colors and avoid busy patterns.

  • Outfit tips:
    1. Wear clothes you’d wear to work.
    2. Avoid logos or distracting accessories.
    3. Choose neutral colors that complement your skin tone.

For outfit inspiration, check out professional headshot examples.

Simple headshot background

6. Keep the Background Simple

A cluttered background can distract from your face. Use a plain wall or a neutral backdrop for a clean look.

  • Background tips:
    1. Avoid busy patterns or bright colors.
    2. Make sure the background is evenly lit.
    3. Use a blank wall or a simple backdrop.

Learn more about choosing the right background.

Editing your headshot

7. Edit Your Headshot Lightly

Small edits can improve your DIY headshot. Adjust brightness and contrast, but avoid over-editing.

  • Editing tips:
    1. Crop to focus on your face.
    2. Adjust lighting to even out shadows.
    3. Keep edits subtle for a natural look.

For editing tools, try this guide on photo editing.

Take multiple shots

8. Take Multiple Shots

Don’t settle for the first photo. Take many shots to find the best one for your DIY headshot.

  • Shooting tips:
    1. Try different angles and expressions.
    2. Take breaks to avoid looking stiff.
    3. Review photos as you go to make adjustments.

Get more tips on taking multiple shots.

Use a tripod

9. Use a Tripod or Stand

A tripod keeps your camera steady for a sharp DIY headshot. Use a timer or remote shutter for hands-free shooting.

  • Tripod tips:
    1. Set the camera at eye level.
    2. Use a remote or timer to avoid shaking.
    3. Adjust the height for the best angle.

Find more on using a tripod for headshots.

Relax and be yourself

10. Relax and Be Yourself

The best DIY headshots show your personality. Smile naturally and think of something pleasant to capture a genuine expression.

  • Expression tips:
    1. Relax your face and shoulders.
    2. Think of something happy for a natural smile.
    3. Avoid forced expressions—keep it real.

For more on capturing natural expressions, see this headshot guide.

Final Thoughts

A DIY headshot can look professional with the right setup. Follow these tips to take a great photo at home. No matter if you're using a smartphone or a camera, good lighting and posing make all the difference. Try these ideas today and update your professional image with a polished DIY headshot.

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