Your LinkedIn photo is the first thing recruiters see. LinkedIn requires a square (1:1) photo — the 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) standard square format maps directly to it. This guide covers the exact dimensions, background, pose rules, and how to get a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Platform | |
| Photo Type | Profile photo (square 1:1) |
| Photo Size | 51 × 51 mm (square, 1:1) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Pixel Dimensions (Print) | 1205 × 1205 px at 600 DPI |
| Head Size | Face occupies Face fills about 60% of the frame of the photo |
| Background Color | Plain background that contrasts with your clothing |
| Expression | Natural, approachable smile recommended |
| Glasses | Allowed if worn daily; ensure no glare |
| Submission | Digital — uploaded to your LinkedIn profile |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Update whenever your appearance changes significantly |
Your LinkedIn photo is the first thing recruiters see. LinkedIn requires a square (1:1) photo — the 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) standard square format maps directly to it. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Allowed if worn daily; ensure no glare. If you wear them, ensure there is no glare on the lenses and that your eyes are clearly visible.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant LinkedIn Photo photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a high-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.
Keep your face relaxed: natural, approachable smile recommended. Both eyes open and visible.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable photos
A LinkedIn Photo photo must be 51 × 51 mm (square, 1:1). At 600 DPI the print file is 1205 × 1205 pixels, suitable for printing or digital upload.
Allowed if worn daily; ensure no glare. If you wear them, make sure there is no glare on the lenses and your eyes are clearly visible.
Yes! Unlike passport photos, a natural smile is recommended for LinkedIn. It makes you look approachable and trustworthy.
Yes! You can take your LinkedIn Photo photo with any smartphone. Upload it to Passport Size Photo and our AI will automatically crop, resize, replace the background, and ensure it meets the requirements.
The background should be a plain background that contrasts with your clothing. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. Our tool can automatically replace your background if needed.
There is no strict limit, but update your photo whenever your appearance changes significantly — profiles with current photos get more engagement.
No, hats and head coverings are not permitted unless worn for religious reasons. Even then, your full face must be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead.
Use a square JPEG or PNG of at least 400×400 pixels (LinkedIn minimum); 800×800 pixels is recommended for sharp display on all devices including retina screens.
Popular photo requirements:
