Add the right image to your own posts and content on LinkedIn

The underestimated lever: What makes images so impactful in the feed
Personal beats generic: Which images really work
Alternatives: Infographics, slideshows & more
How to take a great photo – even without a pro
Preparing for your photo shoot
Think long-term: Visual language, trust, and licensing tips
Conclusion: Dare to show your face

1. The underestimated lever: What makes images so impactful in the feed

A text-only post takes up very little space in the LinkedIn feed. Once you add an image, visibility increases drastically – visually and in terms of attention. While a text-only post may take up little room, a post with an image can easily take up three to four times more space. In an environment with limited attention spans, every extra second counts.

An image ensures you’re noticed at all – even if the content is only read later.

2. Personal beats generic: Which images really work

It’s worth using personal images – real photos of yourself, not stock material or generic graphics. People tend to trust real faces more. Likes and interactions are more likely on friendly, authentic pictures than on faceless designs.

A photo showing your face can be a real trust signal – the algorithm remembers: This person gets positive responses.

Ideal are images that show you professionally yet approachable – preferably in a work context, but not too stiff. Good inspiration sources: magazine covers (like Forbes style) or business photos on Pinterest or Instagram.

3. Alternatives: Infographics, slideshows & more

If you don’t just want to use a photo, slideshows or infographics are also an option. Make sure to:

Use clear headlines
Include only a few, well-structured points
Avoid visual overload
Make the message clear at first glance

Example: A simple “Top 5” list with a short description per point often works better than a cluttered graphic with too much info.

Tools like Canva.com are perfect for creating such content without design skills. Still, personal images are usually the quicker way to better reach.

4. How to take a great photo – even without a pro

You don’t need an expensive shoot to get started. These basics are enough to take good first photos:

Light: Use as much natural or front-facing light as possible (e.g. daylight at a window)
Smile: A friendly vibe beats a model pose
Proximity: Show your face. Less background, clear focus
Clean lens: Sounds simple, makes a big difference

These tips work even with a smartphone – just give it a try.

5. Preparing for your photo shoot

If you plan a professional shoot, it helps to come prepared:

Collect photo ideas (e.g. on Pinterest)
Show example pictures to your photographer
Bring 4–5 outfits
Plan for different poses and perspectives

That way, you’ll walk away with 10–15 usable photos from one shoot – perfect for several weeks of content.

Tip: A shoot with friends or your partner can work, too. Some even do it with their kids as a joint activity.

6. Think long-term: Visual language, trust, and licensing tips

If you post content regularly, it’s worth working with a consistent photographer. This helps build a cohesive visual language and trust – not only with your community but also during the shoot itself.

Important: Clarify in advance which usage rights you’ll have. Some photographers sell images with limited publishing rights. A better option is a deal that lets you use several edited images without extra costs.

7. Conclusion: Dare to show your face

An image isn’t just a nice bonus – it multiplies your visibility. It’s the difference between being overlooked and being noticed.

Whether it’s a selfie, a professional photo, or an infographic – the key is to get started.

The more you show yourself, the more familiar you become in the feed. And that directly affects your reach, interaction, and eventually your inbound inquiries.