Your headshot is your first impression—whether you’re applying for a dream role, updating your LinkedIn, or creating a personal brand. But one critical aspect often overlooked? The right size and dimensions. A poor crop or low-res photo can instantly make you look unprofessional—even if the original image is great.
This complete guide breaks down everything you need to know about headshot sizes, including:
- ✅ Standard print and digital headshot sizes
- ✅ Cropping ratios for different industries
- ✅ Pixel dimensions for online platforms
- ✅ Pro resizing tips without quality loss
- ✅ How to generate AI headshots with perfect dimensions
Let’s dive in and make sure your next headshot is flawless and format-ready.
🎯 What Is a Headshot?
A headshot is more than just a portrait—it’s your professional identity in one image. Whether you’re an actor, entrepreneur, medical resident, or job seeker, a clean, well-sized headshot helps you:
- Build trust
- Open doors to new opportunities
- Leave a memorable impression
From your resume to your social profiles, a great headshot tells your story at a glance.
🧠 What Are the Standard Headshot Sizes?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to headshots. Instead, the dimensions depend on the platform or use case.
📏 Most Common Headshot Sizes & Their Uses:
| Size | Aspect Ratio | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 8×10 inches | 4:5 | 🎭 Acting, casting, modeling |
| 5×7 inches | 5:7 | 🧑💼 Corporate, portfolios |
| 2×3 inches | 2:3 | 🪪 IDs, business cards |
| 1:1 (Square) | 1:1 | 🌐 LinkedIn, Instagram, digital use |
📘 Quick Size Reference by Profession
- Actors & Performers: 8×10 in (4:5), vertical
- Corporate Professionals: Square (1:1) or 4:5 for LinkedIn
- Medical Residency (ERAS): 375×525 pixels
- Designers/Artists: 5×7 in or 1:1 digital square for profile consistency
🖨️ Print vs. Digital Headshot Dimensions
Understanding the difference between print and digital standards ensures your image looks sharp in every context.
| Feature | Digital | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 8×10 in, 5×7 in | 400×400 px, 800×800 px |
| Resolution | 300 DPI | 72–150 DPI |
| Usage | Portfolios, brochures, ID badges | LinkedIn, social media, websites |
| Focus | Detail & sharpness | Quick load & clarity |
Pro Tip: If you’re printing your headshot, use 300 DPI to retain details. For web, 72 DPI is standard—but go 150 DPI if you want extra crispness.
💻 Pixel Dimensions for Popular Platforms
Social & Professional Media Size Guide:
| Platform | Profile Pic Size | Max File Size |
|---|---|---|
| 400×400 px | 8MB | |
| 170×170 px (min) | 1.75GB | |
| 320×320 px | 30MB | |
| Twitter/X | 400×400 px | 2MB |
| Gmail | 180×180 px | 5MB |
| ERAS (Residency) | 375×525 px | 100KB |
| US Passport | 2″x2″ print, 72 DPI |
✂️ How to Crop Headshots Like a Pro
Cropping affects the first visual impression. Here are expert tips:
- Focus tightly on the head and shoulders
- Avoid too much background—it distracts from your face
- For LinkedIn or job use, stick to 1:1 or 4:5
- Preview your crop on target platforms before uploading
🔧 How to Resize a Headshot Without Losing Quality
The key to a great resized image is maintaining aspect ratio and image clarity.
Best Tools for Resizing:
- Adobe Photoshop: Pro-level control with “Image Size” tool
- Canva: Great for drag-and-drop social media sizing
- GIMP: Free Photoshop alternative, perfect for DIY resizing
✅ Tip: Always lock the aspect ratio when resizing and avoid heavy compression. It’s better to resize from a high-res original than to enlarge a small one.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the standard size for a professional headshot?
For print: 8×10 inches at 300 DPI.
For digital: 400×400 pixels, or 800×800 for higher resolution.
Should I use a vertical or horizontal headshot?
- Vertical: Best for resumes, profiles, print
- Horizontal: Good for websites, banners, or creative layouts
How do I resize a headshot without quality loss?
Use tools like Photoshop or GIMP, and always maintain the original aspect ratio and DPI (300 for print, 72+ for web).
How should I crop my headshot?
Keep it tight on the face. Use 1:1 or 4:5 aspect ratios for versatility across platforms.
🚀 Ready to Make a Powerful First I