LinkedIn Profile Photo Guidelines: Size, Framing and Tips

Your LinkedIn photo is usually the first thing people see. Here is what LinkedIn's own Help Center specifies, plus practical framing tips (checked October 2026).

Steps

1. Use the right file
   LinkedIn accepts PNG or JPG between 400×400 and 7680×4320 pixels, up to 8MB (no GIFs). A square photo needs the least cropping.
2. Frame for the circle
   LinkedIn crops profile photos into a circle. Leave space around your head; LinkedIn suggests cropping from the top of your shoulders to just above your head so your face fills about 60% of the frame.
3. Light your face evenly
   Face a window with soft daylight, avoid overhead lights that cast shadows under the eyes, and turn off beauty filters.
4. Keep it simple
   Plain or softly blurred background, clothes you would wear to work in your field, a natural expression, and only you in the shot.
5. Check it at small size
   View the photo at thumbnail size. If your face isn't recognizable at that size, crop tighter.

Limits to know

Honest limits: LinkedIn says your profile photo must reflect your likeness. If you use an AI headshot, pick results that genuinely look like you today and skip any that change your face, age or features. Some employers or ID uses require an unedited photo; check before using an AI image there.

Last checked: 2026-10-16