A photo is optional
There is no universal rule. Practices vary by country, industry and organisation. Some hiring processes expect a photo; others prefer to avoid unnecessary personal information. Check the job instructions and conventions in the market you are applying to.
Consider what it adds
Your experience, skills and education should remain the focus. A photograph is not evidence of professional ability. If it is not requested and you have no clear reason to include one, choose a layout without a photo. Never use another person’s image or a representation that changes your identity.
Prepare a simple image
If you include a photo, use a recent image with even lighting and a clean background. A face-and-shoulders crop and a natural expression usually work well. Clothing can reflect the work context without becoming a rigid requirement.
- Avoid heavy filters, group-photo crops and distracting backgrounds.
- Check that the preview does not cut off your face.
- Review sharpness and size in both PDF and Word.
- Only use images you have the right to use.
Protect privacy and review the final document
CVonline keeps your photo and résumé data in the tab’s memory. Reloading or closing the tab removes your work, so download the result before leaving.
Check that the photo does not cover text or push an important section onto another page. Compare versions with and without a photo and select the one best suited to the application.