I would rate this picture as an eight, because it is nearly perfect except for cropping the top of the head. The only other suggestion I would make is to perhaps provide a bigger smile, as my impression of just THIS picture is that the person in it might be somewhat quiet, or timid because of the smaller smile.
The person in the photo is beautiful as well (although we shouldn't be judging each other just by our outward appearance) and I like the choice of business attire. The pale blue background looks nice and appears to be professionally done.
If I were to suggest anything, it would be to include the entire head, brighten up the smile, and perhaps add a bit of color to it somehow, either through the clothing or background.
It's a frightening thing to be placed in the seat of judgment on another human, when it is inevitable that your OWN moment on the "hot seat" is going to be just as potentially shocking and traumatic.
(Funny thing about sticking your neck out and judging someone else. I took a good look at my OWN profile pic, and although the pic has all of my hair in it when I upload it, when it shows up here, it is missing! Perhaps, as they say, I am too quick to judge!)
Okay. I apologize for writing what I wrote because I had NO IDEA WHO I WAS EVEN RATING! I was merely going by the top photo at the top of this subject!
Anyway, I fixed my photo so my OWN head wasn't cut off any longer, so I'd like "constructive" criticism of my profile pic, as I don't have much background. I took this photo outside in early evening, so the background was naturally dark anyway. (Please try to be somewhat kind, as my feelings get hurt easily)
I am just seeing this topic and think you are all far braver than I!
I'll wade in, though, with some general comments:
* Both Mike and I feel we need to have professional photos taken for profile shots, but used what we had to get started. I'd imagine this applies to many of you as well.
* I'll come back after I update my photo to put my head on the chopping block again (so to speak :-), but for reasons of fairness, since I'm here, shoot if you must. I duck well.
* I'm not sure I agree with all the comments about photos being cropped. I think this is a technique, actually; perhaps a personal preference. I remember discussing art in a college class, where artists had purposefully extended part of their subject off the canvas to give them a "larger than life" feel. I don't want to see nose hairs, mind you, but a close-up with a cropped head or face doesn't upset me.
* I'm not sure number ratings help... it's so subjective... but the comments are what seems to really matter.
* I agree about some backgrounds being too dark. For me, one of the nicest profile pics I've seen is Natalie's (SUp CEO). I like the cropping, for reasons mentioned above, and I especially like the auric glow behind her, which really lights up the profile. (How angelic of you, Natalie!) When we have time to get gussied up, this is what Mike and I will aim for.
* Our current photos are too grainy and not compressed well... we did the best we could with what we had. I've seen some others like that. I'd go in favor of clear and crisp, preferring professional photos to candid shots, myself. (Although, in contrast to that general opinion, I'll admit that some of your candid shot display rather nicely. Julio's comes to mind.)
* Outside photos are not my favorite, but I guess if it ties to your business or a branding/image that you're trying to project, perhaps it makes sense. But in general, I prefer an indoor close-up.
* B&W vs. color? I like color myself, but I have seen some really nice B&W photos here. I wouldn't have thought of that, myself. I like color because it's easier to project warmth, I believe.
* Pics of things other than your face... I started doing profiles with my business logo (see my LinkedIn profile as an example). Some sites (maybe facebook?) wouldn't let me though, so I started using my current profile pic, which we scanned in from a paper photo. Now that I've been doing social and business networking for awhile, I favor the personal pic. It's nice to put a (hopefully friendly) face with a name.
* I vacillate a bit between the smile vs. the stoic business look, but in the end, favor an inviting smile for this purpose. If you are networking, I believe you want to project your approachability. I think there are ways to balance that with professionalism - through kindness, respect, general manners and good content.
As usual, I guess I've varied a bit from the intended format (I don't always color within the lines so well), but hope the thoughts add some value to the discussion.
3 more days to Christmas! Whatever you may celebrate, I hope it's a peaceful and joyous season with wishes for a wonderful New Year filled with much success and happiness.
Kali
_________________________
Kali Kunkle
Owner and Chief Shopping Advisor
DreamWorthy Gifts LLC
Kali@DreamWorthyGifts.com http://www.DreamWorthyGifts.com
As you do look professional(and I'm thinking that's what you were shooting for), and you are a pretty lady, but the pic just lacks uumph!! Know what I mean?! I think if lined up, it would get passed by. PLEASE do not take offense to my comment, just being honest & trying to perhaps help you out!
What is your first impression or reaction? Do you notice this as something unusual? What do you do when seeing it, do you ignore or find out what is this?
This is fun, I fully expect to rate minus something... but ya can't always judge a book by its cover. Below that crusty digital exterior beats a heart of gold, and a mind that cuts like a diamond.
Rate me why don't ya, and don't spare your suggestions on how my face can become my signature for success. Please try to avoid telling me to get another photograph done, I already know that much... I aint blind or completely bereft of what looks good and what doesn't... but it's my daughters favourite snap, and she took it herself, on a beautiful sunny day walking Scotland's green glades... the last time we were together.
I will be changing my profile pic sometime soon, which is why I'm interested in suggestions. Perhaps I need to spend a week with a make-up artist, I'm sure once all the etchings on my face are taken care of, my ears are pinned back, etc., I could give George Cloony a run for his money. I'd probably melt under the Hollywood sun though, but is that a risk worth taking?
On the other hand, if my strategy is to remain forever virtual, perhaps I should post a picture of me when I was young and incredibly handsome... would you do business with a baby?
Image is a calling card though, and I guess I should really give this issue the serious thought it deserves. At least you've seen the worse "before" shot of me, and I bet you can't wait to see my "after" shot... I bet you'll bookmark my profile and visit it daily, panting to see a miracle performed before your eyes? Perhaps I'll post a series of photographs, the many faces of Dennis, and get you to vote on the best - what do you think about that for an idea?
Anyway, do your worse, I'm banking on it, but expect to be amazed when my transformation is complete.