Exploring AI-Generated Corporate Headshots: Are They Ready for Professional Use?
A self-portrait taken with my iPhone at sunset, capturing the natural warmth and vibrancy of the golden hour.
This AI-generated headshot with a city background was created using images I uploaded of myself. It showcases how AI can generate professional-style portraits from casual snapshots.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, I’ve been diving deeper into its capabilities—especially in the realm of photography. While some creatives worry about AI replacing traditional methods, I see it as a tool that can be used strategically.
I’ve captured countless corporate headshots over the years, helping professionals and businesses present their best image. Now, I’m curious—how well do AI-generated headshots actually work? With the rise of AI services that generate professional headshots from phone selfies, I decided to test it myself.
This isn’t a deep dive review of AI headshot services, but rather an initial exploration. I’m particularly interested in whether this technology could be a viable option for clients who may not have access to an in-person session. Could a company simply send me iPhone snapshots of their team, and I use AI to generate polished, professional-looking headshots? If so, how would the results compare to traditional photography? That’s what I set out to explore.
The Experiment: AI vs. Traditional Corporate Headshots
I used Aragon AI, one of many platforms that create AI-generated headshots by analyzing uploaded photos and generating a variety of professional images. For my test, I wanted both corporate office-style headshots and some outdoor professional portraits to see how well the AI could match different business aesthetics.
The Process
I uploaded 11 iPhone photos, ranging from casual snapshots to more polished images.
There were a few unflattering photographs of me that I included to see how the AI would handle them in the final product. This may explain why some results featured shaggy hair and a heavier appearance than I expected.
The AI processed them and returned 100 headshots with various backgrounds, lighting, and poses.
The above are 11 images created from an iPhone I uploaded into AI.
The Results: Pros & Cons of AI-Generated Corporate Headshots
My first reaction? “Wow, I gained over 100 pounds!” AI-generated images often tweak facial features and body proportions, and in my case, some headshots exaggerated my weight, altered my hair length, or made my head appear too small in relation to my body. However, after filtering through the images, I found a handful that were usable.
Key Takeaways from My AI Headshot Test:
✅ Quick and Convenient – AI-generated headshots are fast and can be a decent option for those who need LinkedIn headshots, corporate website bios, or virtual meeting profile images in a pinch.
✅ Variety of Backgrounds – The AI placed me in different settings, from traditional office environments to professional outdoor backgrounds, offering flexibility.
❌ Image Accuracy Can Vary – Some images made me look noticeably heavier, changed my hair in unexpected ways, or adjusted my facial proportions inconsistently. I also noticed that my skin appeared overly softened, which gave a more polished, almost airbrushed look. While this aesthetic is becoming more mainstream, especially in corporate and LinkedIn headshots, it may not be ideal for those who prefer a more natural appearance.
❌ File Size Limitations – The AI-generated headshots were under 100KB, with dimensions around 896x1088 pixels. These are sufficient for online use (LinkedIn, company directories, etc.), but not ideal for printing or further cropping.
The above are 12 images that were created with AI based on the pictures I uploaded.
Can AI Replace Traditional Corporate Headshots?
While AI headshots have come a long way, they still lack the customization and accuracy of professional photography. Traditional headshots allow for:
✔️ Controlled lighting and angles to bring out your best features
✔️ Consistent brand identity across teams or executive headshots
✔️ Full-resolution images suitable for both digital and print use
✔️ The ability to wear your favorite outfit—AI-generated headshots often apply generic or digitally altered clothing, whereas a professional session ensures you can showcase your personal style and preferred attire.
That said, AI tools can be useful for quick solutions when a professional session isn’t an option. But for companies looking for high-quality corporate headshots, a professional photographer remains the best choice.
Final Thoughts: AI as a Supplement, Not a Replacement
AI headshots are an intriguing tool, and I plan to test other platforms to see how they compare. For now, I see them as a complementary option rather than a complete replacement for professional photography.
What do you think? Would you use AI-generated headshots for your professional image? Let’s discuss it!
This version keeps it structured, engaging, and optimized for corporate clients who might be searching for headshot solutions. Let me know if you’d like any final tweaks! 🚀