You’re looking for a job? Take care of a professional business portrait and increase your chances

Are you looking for a job or maybe just thinking about a change and career advancement? No matter what stage you are at, your CV should be the starting point. You’ll probably start updating your education and experience information, but do you remember to include a recent photo? A professional business portrait will emphasize your care for your image and distinguish you from other candidates.

Most recruitment processes now start online – initial decisions are made before a face-to-face meeting. That’s why it’s worth taking care of your image. It is important that the business portrait you use on LinkedIn and in your CV is up-to-date and presents you in a way that will increase your chances of interviewing a recruiter.

I wrote more about why it’s worth taking care of having a photo on your CV here: Business photography and the recruitment process

First impression – what does the research say about it?

First impressions largely influence how people perceive us.

Research shows that after just a fraction of a second, when we look at a person or a photo, we draw conclusions about the person’s features based on their appearance[1][2]. After an exposure lasting only 0.1 s, we draw conclusions about whether someone is trustworthy, competent, likable, attractive or aggressive. The same study indicates that there is a strong correlation of results. when the observation time of each photo is 1 s or longer. Judgments made based on facial observations are very quick, effortless and intuitive.

Attention! The process of changing a previously created “first” impression takes much longer and requires more effort from us.

Another study, which involved predicting the attractiveness of people based on photos in MBA school yearbooks and verifying the further professional fate of these people 10 years after graduating, leads to important conclusions. People considered attractive perform better on the labor market, earn more and hold higher positions[3]

Jakub Ananicz – Entrepreneur
Paulina Mazur – Employer branding strategist, HR consultant

What conclusions can be drawn from the above-mentioned research?

It is difficult to assume that automaticity in thinking and acting may concern how we are assessed, but – importantly – we also use this mechanism and evaluate other people. It is difficult to escape from this, since these behaviors are so deeply imprinted in our psyche. By being aware of these processes, it is worth maximizing your chances of success. How? It is enough to take a good photo or business portrait in places that are used every day and affect the image, especially in documents that are submitted to companies when looking for a job.

Find out more: How much does a business portrait cost?

Business portrait… so what it is?

I probably don’t need to explain what a business portrait is – you may encounter them every day when browsing industry magazines or social media such as LinkedIn. They may be associated with school ID photos, but business photos are something more. This professional photography is intended to show you at your best and evoke specific, positive emotions. At the same time, it should indicate that you are a professional person and worth hiring.

Portrait photography is, on the one hand, an art because it focuses on capturing a person in the right way – their face, features and facial expressions. On the other hand, it is a technique in which the person being photographed looks directly at the camera.

It is important that the photo presents you as true and undistorted as possible. A photo for your CV or profile photo on LinkedIn is supposed to make the right impression on the recipient. We have a whole spectrum of possibilities here, because the human face can express very different emotions, which should appear in a true and natural way. Therefore, my role as a photographer is to take care not only of making a business portrait in accordance with art, but above all of the conditions in which I will have to portray you.

Joanna Grącka – Sales manager at Nord Serwis Sp. z o.o.
Piotr Cichocki – Communications Officer at European Commission

How do I make a business portrait?

Most of my clients don’t like being in front of the camera. Therefore, from the first contact, I will guide you through all stages – from preparation for the session to the selection of optimal images. I will help you tame the stress that may appear at first. I use my own method here – I can bring out what is true and natural in each person. Moreover, the images I create are not overly retouched, which further emphasizes their authenticity.

It is important for me that the person in the photo looks good and at the same time is recognizable in face-to-face contact.

At the stage of preparation for the session, I provide advice and assistance. I suggest what outfits are worth taking to the session and how to prepare for the photos. A properly selected style should match the nature of the work and the position for which you are applying. It is supposed to help build a good impression, but it is not the main subject of the photo and should not dominate. Remember that a properly selected outfit also affects how you feel in front of the camera.

Read also: 7 secrets of successful business portraits

I make it clear: I have time for you. This means that on the day of the session I am focused on you and we work until the received images meet your expectations. But let me assure you – for over 25 years I have been perfecting the way of working with the person being portrayed. Thanks to this, I have the knowledge and experience how to achieve perfect results in a short time.

I provide ongoing advice on how to pose, what to do to relax, and what to pay attention to. We evaluate the photos together, which allows us to quickly make corrections, e.g. changes in outfit, body position or facial expression.

Remember that I am only assisting in selecting the strongest shots. You choose the portraits during the session! The finished photos are the result of previously established image goals.

During the session, we evaluate the photos on an ongoing basis, which allows us to quickly make corrections – e.g. changes in outfit, body position or facial expression.

To sum up: it is worth ensuring that your image harmonizes with your professional experience. This is the goal that a professional business portrait is supposed to achieve.

Let’s talk about your image needs.

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[1]Willis J., Todorov A. (2006). First impressions: Making up your mind after a 100-ms exposure to a face. Psychological Science, 17, 592–598.

[2]Judith H. Langlois, Jean M. Ritter, Lori A. Roggman, and Lesley S. Vaughn (1991) Facial Diversity and Infant Preferences for Attractive Faces. Developmental Psychology, 27(1), 79–84.

[3]Irene Hanson Frieze, Josephine E. Olson, June Russell (1991).Attractiveness and Income for Men and Women in Management. Journal of Applied Social Psychology 21, 1039-57

Testimonials

  • I had the pleasure of using Krzysztof Zaleski’s business portrait services and I am absolutely delighted with the results. Krzysztof is truly a magician behind the lens—I have never looked so good in a photo! His professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to create a relaxed atmosphere during the session are invaluable. If you’re looking for a photographer who can capture your best, I highly recommend Krzysztof. Thank you for a great experience!

    Krystian Lewecki Head Of Legal Affairs

  • Krzysztof demonstrates full professionalism and remarkable commitment to his work. The photo session took place in a calm, warm, and empathetic atmosphere. He is not only a great specialist but also a very nice person. Krzysztof provides valuable advice and guidance, which makes you feel confident and at ease in front of his lens. The results were delightful—beautiful portraits that truly show emotion.
    My sincere gratitude—and I wholeheartedly recommend him.

    Beata Rubanowicz Ophthalmologist

  • I definitely recommend Krzysztof Zaleski.
    For years, at various stages of my career, I have turned to him whenever I needed professional photos—not just business ones. Krzysztof is a true professional with a perfect understanding of business needs and goals. He is also flexible and quick to act. I recommend him to anyone looking for something more in their photos.

    Michał Świderski Marketing Manager, Management Advisor

  • Krzysztof is an excellent professional who focuses on working with people, not just the technical side of photography. Thanks to this, the quality and authenticity of his photos are outstanding. He knows how to bring out a person’s character and highlight their best features.
    It was a great pleasure to work with such a professional.
    Thanks again.

    Paulina Romaniszyn General Manager at STADA Group

  • I have worked with many photographers, but Krzysztof Zaleski truly stands out. He is dedicated to achieving that “wow” effect for his clients, always going the extra mile to ensure outstanding results.
    I wholeheartedly recommend his services.

    Sergiusz Trzeciak Expert in political marketing, public image shaping and personal branding

  • Working with Krzysztof is fantastic—stress-free and relaxed, yet very professional. Even before the session, we received detailed tips on what clothes to bring and which patterns or colors to avoid, which was very helpful. During the photo session, Krzysztof gave specific advice but also allowed for our own inventiveness and moments of fun. Through thoughtful conversations and insightful questions, we were able to clearly define the style and mood of the photos. Krzysztof is exceptionally considerate and professional. I highly recommend his services to anyone who isn’t used to being in front of the camera and wants photos that are creative, relaxed, and refreshingly unique.

    Aneta Stawicka Communication and Education Manager Rekopol SA

  • Taking photos of myself is, to say the least, not my favorite activity. However, my session with Krzysztof was both comfortable and efficient. I’m very happy with the results. He approaches his clients with true professionalism. I highly recommend him to anyone.

    Andrzej Kotfis Andrzej Kotfis SME/SOHO Sales Director Orange Polska

  • Krzysztof Zaleski was recommended to me by a friend, and I am really glad I finally had the chance to use his services. Krzysztof took several business portraits for me, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. The session was smooth and enjoyable, conducted with complete professionalism. I’m grateful to have worked with someone so passionate, approachable, and warm. I highly recommend Krzysztof to anyone—our image truly matters, and he has a remarkable talent for bringing out the best in people.

    Beatrice Bouchet President of the Management Board B&B Hotels Poland.

  • I asked Krzysztof to take some business photos for me, and working with him was an absolute pleasure. He was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making it easy for us to connect right away. Krzysztof’s attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible results truly stood out. The final photos were delivered promptly and were exceptional in both technical quality and overall presentation. I enthusiastically recommend Krzysztof for business photography assignments.

    Marek Kowalczyk MANDARINE Project Partners

  • Mr. Krzysztof Zaleski has conducted several business photo sessions for MGW Corporate Consulting Group Sp. z o.o. Each session was carried out professionally and with great commitment. Thanks to his interpersonal skills, Mr. Krzysztof creates a kind and friendly atmosphere and photographs in a way that highlights the subject’s character. We also value his good communication, both by phone and email, which positively influences our cooperation. We are pleased to recommend Mr. Krzysztof Zaleski as a reliable, competent, and passionate business photographer.

    Małgorzata Janic Sales Support Specialist at MGW Corporate Consulting Group Sp. z o.o.

  • If you’re looking for someone who not only captures beautiful photos but also pays meticulous attention to every detail during the session, I highly recommend Krzysztof. His keen sense of style and the positive, welcoming atmosphere he creates are truly guaranteed.

    Weronika Jelińska Legal counsel

  • I highly recommend Krzysztof Zaleski’s services. I truly appreciate his professionalism, flexibility, and unwavering kindness. From our very first contact and throughout the entire process, we experienced excellent communication, openness to our needs, and genuine understanding. Thanks to Krzysztof, our photo session for 20 people went smoothly and efficiently. What sets Krzysztof apart is his remarkable empathy and deep understanding of business goals, as well as his fantastic approach to photographing people. The same level of dedication is evident in his careful selection of photos and meticulous post-production work. We are thoroughly impressed by his professionalism, the quality of the photos, and his positive attitude toward both the session and his clients.

    Katarzyna Gorczyńska PR Manager at Plej Advertising Agancy

  • Meeting a photographer who genuinely enjoys his craft and working with people often leads to results that far surpass initial expectations. That was exactly my experience with Krzysztof, and I am truly grateful for it.

    Tomasz Chodkowski President in Grenevo Polska Sp. z o.o.

  • I have worked with Krzysztof on numerous business photo sessions—both individual and team shoots, including the “Lawyer through the Lens” project. Every session with him is a truly special experience: the friendly atmosphere, his patience, and genuine commitment make you feel at ease and truly at the center of attention. Krzysztof collaborates with a trusted team that takes care of every detail, ensuring that the results are always impressive. His portraits help you believe in yourself and consciously build your image—not just in business. If you want to feel truly special, I highly recommend a business photo session with Krzysztof. If you’re looking for exceptional results, look no further.

    Monika Muracka Development Manager, Marketing for Lawyers

  • It’s worth investing in a professional image at every stage of your career. For years, I used photos that were taken rather “on the fly” whenever my articles were published. I have to admit, it wasn’t until I started working with Krzysztof Zaleski that I realized how valuable a personalized approach from a business photographer can be. Krzysztof stands out not only for his professionalism, openness, and creativity, but also for his unique method of working with clients—he takes the time to talk, get to know your personality and goals, and then suggests his own original ideas for the photos. As a result, each session is unique and perfectly tailored to your needs. His commitment and attention to detail ensure that the results exceed expectations. Working with him is a true pleasure and an inspiring experience. He’s an outstanding choice for anyone seeking professional business photography.

    Grzegorz Turniak Owner of Akademia Rekomendacji

  • I had the pleasure of working with Krzysztof Zaleski on an advertising project involving major clients of my company. The project was challenging, as it required treating participants with particular sensitivity and achieving the desired results amid the fast-paced demands of print production. Krzysztof handled everything exceptionally well, creating a pleasant atmosphere that helped save my clients’ time and reduced their stress. His professionalism resulted in a series of excellent photos that appeared on the covers of professional magazines and at the Agfa Graphics stand during the “Poligrafia 2007” fair in Poznań. I highly recommend working with Krzysztof Zaleski!

    Paulina Suchodolska AGFA GRAPHICS