How to choose the most suitable photo to put on the resume

The first thing a recruiter sees is the image of a job candidate. In fact, the number of companies that attach special importance to the image that accompanies the CV has skyrocketed, an aspect that has become essential.

But not just any photo. You have to take care of a series of details. For this reason, the professional photographer Susana Martínez recommends in an article on the Infojobs job portal to use a professional whenever possible. Although it is more expensive, it ensures the quality of the image.

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But, like most people, the most normal thing is to turn to someone close to you to take the photo. In those cases, Martínez offers a series of practical tips to achieve the most correct image.

1. Convey personality

The most important thing is to capture the personality of the person, and convey values, attitude and presence. You have to look for the “good side” and try to enhance it. The most appropriate is a medium shot, better than an extreme close-up or a full-length image. The pose must be consistent with what you want to convey.

2. Smile?

A slight smile is nice. Much better than a laugh. A direct and friendly look is also important, which communicates more strength.

3. Good framing

It is best to take the photo from slightly high and slightly lateral angles, to capture the most flattering side or hide uncomfortable features. The chin should be slightly down for a nice close pose. Being against a wall allows you to feel more attached to the space. An image made from below conveys strength and power, while one from above conveys humility. You have to choose which one best suits the image you want to offer.

4. Contextualize

You have to take the photo in a normal environment. Otherwise, it is advisable to use neutral backgrounds, solid colors and natural textures, such as brick walls, or a mural with trees to give it a natural environment. The background is recommended to be out of focus, to emphasize the face.

5. Ambient light

The lighting should be soft and diffused, so an umbrella is recommended for photography. If you don’t have professional equipment, you can bounce the light off a white sheet. A light should not be focused directly on the face, because it would wash out the skin tone.

6. The morning or the afternoon

Sunlight at sunrise and sunset is unique. Avoid midday, since the sun hits harder and its rays cause unpleasant contrasts and shadows.

7. The camera says a lot

It is not the most important thing, but it is not the same to take the photo with a mobile or with the best reflex camera on the market. As a self-portrait is not the same as a photo taken by a professional.

8. Clothing according

You have to take into account the job you want to access, and choose a wardrobe that matches. The less generic the image, the more confidence is offered, but avoiding “disguises”. You should also avoid logos, prints or images that can draw too much attention and divert it from the most important thing, which is the face. The colors, better smooth and neutral. They serve both dark and light. The clothes should be timeless, neither too summery nor too warm.

9. Update photo

If your appearance changes, it is advisable to update the photo of the CV, so that in a possible interview the image coincides with that of the photo. A haircut, a weight gain or a shave must be reflected.