AI Headshots vs. Professional Headshots: The Truth You Need to Know

Your headshot is the very first impression you make online. The real question is: do you want to show up as an AI version of yourself, or the real you?

As someone who has a computer science background, I love and welcome any new technology. But I can tell if a headshot photo was created using AI. While the technology is good, it is not great…yet.

Your headshot is a powerful tool to connect and build trust with your ideal clients. So, should you go with an AI-created headshot or invest in professional photography? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each—and why professional headshots don’t just look better, but also make you feel confident in many ways.

AI-Created Headshots

Pros:

• Fast: Upload a few photos of yourself, and within minutes, you have multiple headshot options.
• Affordable: Typically much less expensive than hiring a photographer.
• Variety: AI can generate different styles, backgrounds, and outfits instantly.
• Remote-Friendly: No need to travel or schedule a photo session.

Cons:

• Not Authentic: AI often creates an “idealized” version of you that may not look like the real you. This can hurt trust if someone meets you in person for the first time, and they can’t recognize you. If you are looking for a job or a business owner, you want to be recognized.
• Inconsistencies: AI sometimes struggles with natural details like skin texture, hair, or even symmetry. Have you seen those AI photos of a person with 3 arms or extra fingers? It’s hilarious!
• Generic: AI may not capture your personality and energy, and your headshot background could be used in others’ AI headshots.
• Brand Alignment: They may not match the brand vibe, colors, or style of your business.

Professional Headshots

Pros:

• Authentic & Trustworthy: Your headshots look exactly like you, at your very best! People can recognize you instantly.
• Tailored to Your Brand: A professional headshot session is planned meticulously to ensure that your wardrobe, photoshoot location, and styling align with your brand.
• Expert Guidance: A photographer helps with posing, lighting, and expression so you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
• High Quality: Professional equipment and expert editing ensure your headshots look polished and professional.
• Human Connection: A photographer can bring out genuine smiles and expressions that AI can’t. I will play music, dance, and tell jokes to get you to smile or laugh naturally.

Cons:

• Time & Investment: Professional headshot session requires scheduling and costs more than AI-created headshots. You also don’t get your final photos immediately.
• Less Instant Variety: While you’ll get a range of looks and poses, it won’t be 50 different backgrounds in one sitting.

Here’s the most important part, in my opinion, that AI can’t replicate: how you feel walking out of a professional headshot session.

My clients often tell me that they feel amazing and more confident after their photo sessions. When they receive their headshots, they feel proud to show off their polished and professional headshot. There’s something powerful about having photos that reflect the current you—not a version from five years ago, and definitely, not a version that AI thinks you should look like.

When you love your headshot, you’re more likely to update your LinkedIn, show up on social media, and put yourself out there for new opportunities. That boost of confidence is priceless!

If your current headshot feels outdated or doesn’t reflect who you are today, let’s change that. My headshot sessions are designed to be relaxed, professional, and tailored to your brand, so you can walk away feeling confident and excited to use your headshot photos.

Here are two ways to work with me:

1. Instant Headshot: Choose the date, time, and location, book it, and let’s start planning all the details. Click here to book.
2. Discovery Call: Not sure or have questions before you decide to book? Let’s chat! I’d love to hear about your visions. Click here to schedule a date/time.

Charissa H. Yong Photography is a New Jersey-based Headshot & Personal Branding Photographer. She specializes in creating authentic photos for individuals and service-based business owners to help you stand out online.