Introduction: The Need for Professional Headshots
Whether you’re refreshing your LinkedIn, building a portfolio, or starting a website, a professional headshot makes all the difference. The traditional method means costly photoshoots, but technology has changed the game.
What You Need to Get Started
You’ll need just one thing: a clear, forward-facing photo with good lighting. It doesn’t need to be perfect — casual selfies work great too.
Step-by-Step Process to Create Your Headshot With Gemini AI
Step 1: Open Gemini
Go to Gemini google on any browser or use the mobile app.
Step 2: Start Fresh
Initiate a new chat thread. This keeps your work organized and easy to compare results.
Step 3: Upload Your Photo
Click the attachment icon and upload a well-lit picture of yourself facing the camera.
Step 4: Use the Official Prompt
Copy and paste this exact prompt shared by the Gemini team:
“A professional, high-resolution, profile photo, maintaining the exact facial structure, identity, and key features of the person in the input image. The subject is framed from the chest up, with ample headroom and negative space above their head, ensuring the top of their head is not cropped. The person looks directly at the camera, and the subject’s body is also directly facing the camera. They are styled for a professional photo studio shoot, wearing a smart casual blazer. The background is a solid ‘#141414’ neutral studio. Shot from a high angle with bright and airy soft, diffused studio lighting, gently illuminating the face and creating a subtle catchlight in the eyes, conveying a sense of clarity. Captured on an 85mm f/1.8 lens with a shallow depth of field, exquisite focus on the eyes, and beautiful, soft bokeh. Observe crisp detail on the fabric texture of the blazer, individual strands of hair, and natural, realistic skin texture. The atmosphere exudes confidence, professionalism, and approachability. Clean and bright cinematic color grading with subtle warmth and balanced tones, ensuring a polished and contemporary feel.”
Step 5: Wait for the Magic
Gemini AI will process the image — usually in seconds — and generate your perfect professional headshot.
Understanding and Customizing the Prompt
Maintaining Identity
The prompt specifies that Gemini keeps your facial features intact, so it’s you — only enhanced for the perfect professional vibe.
Adjusting Outfit, Expression, and Lighting
You can tweak the prompt to fit your needs. Swap “smart casual blazer” with any outfit you prefer; adjust lighting phrases like “dramatic Rembrandt lighting” or “natural window light”. Change expressions from “confident” to “warm and approachable” for different vibes.
My Personal Experience and Tips
I’ve tried this on multiple photos. Pictures taken in natural daylight with a simple background work best. For different looks, I always generate 3-4 variants and pick the one that feels right. Small changes in angle or expression in input photos can yield surprisingly different AI outputs.
FAQs
No, Gemini AI is free to use through their app or web platform.
It’s best to upload individual clear shots for accurate results.
No, the prompt ensures your identity remains true, enhancing only lighting and styling.
Absolutely. Just specify the color or style you want in the prompt.
Once generated, download your images directly from Gemini AI and share as you like.








