The success of AI-generated headshots hinges on carefully prepared source photos

The quality of the final generated image depends heavily on the clarity, composition, and consistency of the photo you provide

For the AI to generate a lifelike, polished, and true-to-life portrait, adhere to these key recommendations

Begin with optimal lighting conditions

For the most flattering results, use natural sunlight during the golden hour—just after sunrise or before sunset—when shadows are minimal and tones are warm

Avoid harsh midday sun, which can create unflattering shadows on your face

If you must use artificial lighting, use soft, diffused sources and avoid direct flash, which can wash out features or create hot spots

Consider using a circular ring light or dual softboxes placed symmetrically around your head for even, shadow-free lighting

Choose a plain, unobtrusive backdrop that doesn’t compete with your face

Use a backdrop with no textures, patterns, or visual noise to ensure clean facial detection

Keep your background free of logos, vibrant hues, or any objects that draw attention away from your face

The AI needs to focus entirely on your face, and a clean background helps it distinguish your features accurately

Pose yourself directly facing the camera with your head centered in the frame

Keep your posture relaxed but upright—slouching or tilting your head too far can distort proportions

Position the camera at eye level, and gently tilt your chin down to define your jawline

Keep your face calm and relaxed—no forced grins, grimaces, or raised eyebrows

Only allow a natural, fleeting smile—not a staged or toothy grin

Frame your shot to include your head and upper torso, from just above the head to mid-chest

Your face should take up roughly two-thirds of the photo’s vertical space

Avoid cropping too tightly or leaving too much room around your head

Set your camera at the height of your eyes, or just a bit higher, for a flattering, lifelike perspective

Use a tripod or prop your phone or camera on a stable surface to avoid blur from hand movement

Use the highest resolution your device supports

Use your device’s highest quality setting, preferably 1080p or higher

Never use digital zoom; step forward to fill the frame

Blurry, pixelated, or heavily compressed images will result in low-quality or distorted outputs

If your camera has manual focus, lock it on your pupils—your eyes must be in crisp focus

Avoid visual noise—your outfit should complement, not compete with your face

Solid colors work best

Contrast is key: light skin + light shirt + light wall = lost definition

Create clear separation between your clothes and your environment

Your clothing should align with the tone of the headshot you want to project

Remove all accessories that might obscure your face, such as large earrings, hats, or sunglasses

Wipe your lenses with a microfiber cloth to remove smudges and reflections

Even if your AI supports glasses, reduce reflections for optimal results

Trim your beard, mustache, or sideburns to a clean, consistent style

Shoot 8–12 images under identical conditions to maximize selection quality

Zoom in to check for eye closure, shadow asymmetry, or head tilt

Select the photo where your expression is relaxed, lighting is even, and focus is razor-sharp

Never apply Snapchat, VSCO, Lightroom, or any enhancement before uploading

These systems rely on natural skin texture, lighting, and facial details—any manipulation disrupts the process

Blemish removal, skin brightening, or contrast boosts cause the AI to generate a distorted or artificial version

Let the system work with the raw data for the most realistic outcome

By following these guidelines, you provide the AI with the best possible foundation to generate a headshot that looks like you—professional, online resource clear, and true to life