Okay, let’s talk about AI headshots for a second. You’ve probably seen ads popping up everywhere—“Get 100 headshots for $29!” or “Skip the photo shoot, let AI do it for you!” I’ll be honest… I have been curious too. Learning AI headshots has been on my list forever.
I actually spent hours researching, downloading apps, uploading selfies, and even dropping money on a few of the “premium” options because I wanted to see if AI could really replace a professional headshot or branding session.
Some of the AI-generated photos looked almost like me—until you looked closer. The skin was weirdly plastic-y, my hair looked like it had been Photoshopped on from a shampoo ad, and sometimes my eyes didn’t even match.
And the ones that actually looked decent? They still felt…fake. Like I was looking at some polished version of myself that didn’t actually exist in real life. It wasn’t me at all AND for some reason AI adds like 10 years to my face. I want 10 years subtracted, not added!!!!
Now maybe someday AI headshots will get there. I fully believe they will actually. But for now, I still fully encourage you to book a headshot or branding session instead of a DIY AI option!
Why a Real Shoot Wins Every Time
Here’s the thing:
Authenticity matters. People can feel when a photo is real. They connect with your energy, not an algorithm’s version of you.
AI is generic. Sure, it spits out images, but they don’t tell your story. A professional session is built around you—your brand, your personality, your vibe.
Confidence is the secret sauce. There’s something about standing in front of a camera, with the right lighting, the right direction, and a photographer who knows how to bring out your best. You don’t just get pretty pictures—you walk away feeling like a million bucks. AI can’t give you that.
Consistency. AI gave me random styles, mismatched backgrounds, and images that didn’t flow together. With a real branding session, you get a whole gallery of cohesive, polished images you can use everywhere—LinkedIn, your website, Instagram, email signature—all looking intentional and professional.
Bottom Line
AI might be fun to play with, but it’s not YOU. Your brand deserves photos that are real, authentic, and powerful. And honestly? No computer can capture your personality, your quirks, or that spark in your eyes.
So if you’re on the fence about whether to book a headshot or branding shoot, take it from someone who’s wasted the money and time trying to hack the system with AI: nothing compares to the real deal.
Scroll down to see photos from a real brand shoot I did vs. my AI headshots!
Brand Shoot
AI headshots
