When Coloured Backgrounds Work: Standing Out with Headshots on LinkedIn

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As we scroll through LinkedIn, those rare headshots that pop—red, blue, even a bold yellow—immediately catch our eye. But when does a coloured background actually work? And how do you know if it’s right for your brand?

I've noticed a growing trend among professionals who want to showcase their personality and stand out for the right reasons. For many, a well-chosen coloured background strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and individuality.

Real Examples: Colour in Action

One of our clients,  Executive Coach and Speaker, Cheryl Alderman, opted for a vibrant red background that radiated energy, visibility, and passion—perfect for her niche.

Another, a lawyer, chose a calm, modern blue, creating a polished but contemporary feel that reflected her approachable, client-first ethos.

Both colours worked beautifully—not because they were loud, but because they were aligned with the individual’s message and market.



When Coloured Backgrounds Make Sense

Coloured backgrounds are particularly effective for:

  • Marketing professionals

  • Creative and design-focused businesses

  • Personal brands and consultants

  • Public relations experts

  • Small business owners or sole traders who want to show personality

  • Anyone wanting to reflect the colours of their brand or logo

They can tie in seamlessly with a website palette, social media content, or business card design—creating consistency across platforms that strengthens recognition and trust.


Tips for Choosing the Right Colour

  • Start with your brand colours – If you have a logo, website, or social feed with consistent colours, your headshot can echo that.

  • Consider the emotion you want to evoke – Red is bold and confident, blue is calm and trustworthy, yellow is optimistic and energising.

  • Make sure you feel like you – The best photos are the ones where you feel comfortable and authentic. Colour should support that, not distract from it.



About the author

Nina Beilby – Professional Photographer

With a degree in professional photography (AAS PP Honors) and over 25 years of experience, Nina Beilby is a highly skilled photographer specializing in corporate and business imagery. Her background in corporate IT and marketing gives her a deep understanding of the visual needs of businesses, from large enterprises to solo entrepreneurs. As a small business owner herself, she knows the power of high-quality imagery in building a strong brand. Based in Sydney, Nina works globally, bringing her expertise in lighting and photography to organisations that value professionalism and impact.



You may contact Nina through her website or phone 0417 022 868

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