Job application
Application pictures: What do I have to pay attention to?
Are you about to apply for a job and wondering what you need to consider? We can help you get started in your new job or another position. Your application photo is one of the first things your potential employer will see. Of course, you want to make sure that this eye-catcher makes an excellent impression.
Why do I need an application photo?
You're wondering why you need an application photo at all in this day and age. The reason is simple: You want to make a good first impression. There are many ways to include a picture in your application. It's best to think about where you want to place the photo before you start designing and inform your photographer. The classic is a photo on the top right of the resume. The perennial favorite among application photos still works and highlights the most important part of your documents. After all, your new employer will be examining your resume closely, and you want to stand out. If you place your application photo here, you should make sure that your face is facing the text to create a natural order. We often subconsciously associate a coherent design with a positive overall impression. You can also place your application photo on a specially created cover that precedes all documents. There are no limits here.
The classic is a rectangular photo in portrait format. However, you may want to break the conventions and try your hand at a landscape format application photo. Or maybe even abstract variations like a square or round shape? When using a special format, you're sure of one thing: the attention of your viewer. Stepping out of line, as they like to call it, can be a positive thing in a job application. Of course, you should always adapt the application photo and its format to the employer. Clothing also plays an important role, and we'll explain more about this in a moment.
As you can see, it is possible to apply for a job without a photo, but a positive first impression of yourself is worth its weight in gold.
The classic is a rectangular photo in portrait format. However, you may want to break the conventions and try your hand at a landscape format application photo. Or maybe even abstract variations like a square or round shape? When using a special format, you're sure of one thing: the attention of your viewer. Stepping out of line, as they like to call it, can be a positive thing in a job application. Of course, you should always adapt the application photo and its format to the employer. Clothing also plays an important role, and we'll explain more about this in a moment.
As you can see, it is possible to apply for a job without a photo, but a positive first impression of yourself is worth its weight in gold.
What is the right application photo outfit?
"What am I going to wear for my application photo?", "Will this even fit the intended purpose?" or similar phrases will surely sound familiar to you. And that's a good thing, because we always want to show ourselves from our best side.
When choosing your outfit, the most important thing is where you want to apply. The head of the local kindergarten will be rather surprised at a business-style application photo. The CEO of the financial company, on the other hand, will certainly not want to see someone wearing a cuddly sweater with a teddy bear motif.
Of course, you are free to put your own style on your application photo, but professional application photos are characterized by prior research on the employer and a skilled photographer. Still, you should choose clothes that match your personality. If you are absolutely against ties, you should avoid them. Unless it's mandatory at the company you're aiming for. If you wear an outfit that you don't feel the least bit comfortable in, you'll notice it in the application photos. So, keep it casual and match your clothes to your style.
Lastly, when it comes to your application photo outfit, make sure you avoid clothes with intricate patterns. On camera, it can cause something called a moiré effect. This is a coarse grid that appears when shooting repetitive patterns. Ideally, wear solid-colored clothes that match each other in color.
When choosing your outfit, the most important thing is where you want to apply. The head of the local kindergarten will be rather surprised at a business-style application photo. The CEO of the financial company, on the other hand, will certainly not want to see someone wearing a cuddly sweater with a teddy bear motif.
Of course, you are free to put your own style on your application photo, but professional application photos are characterized by prior research on the employer and a skilled photographer. Still, you should choose clothes that match your personality. If you are absolutely against ties, you should avoid them. Unless it's mandatory at the company you're aiming for. If you wear an outfit that you don't feel the least bit comfortable in, you'll notice it in the application photos. So, keep it casual and match your clothes to your style.
Lastly, when it comes to your application photo outfit, make sure you avoid clothes with intricate patterns. On camera, it can cause something called a moiré effect. This is a coarse grid that appears when shooting repetitive patterns. Ideally, wear solid-colored clothes that match each other in color.
An application without a photo - doomed to fail?
Earlier we touched on professional application photos and how important they are in making an impression on an employer.
First of all, it should be said at this point: It is not mandatory to include an application photo in your application. Since the AGG, the General Equal Treatment Act, came into force in 2006, no one is forced to submit a picture. Sometimes you even hear the rumor that an application photo has been banned altogether. This is, of course, false.
Advantages of an application without a photo
There are advantages to sending an application without a photo. For example, it prevents discrimination based on ethnicity or appearance. Also, the focus falls more on your background. If the employer explicitly mentions that he does not want an application photo, you will have to do without it. For all other jobs, applying without a photo can quickly lead to numerous disadvantages.
First of all, it should be said at this point: It is not mandatory to include an application photo in your application. Since the AGG, the General Equal Treatment Act, came into force in 2006, no one is forced to submit a picture. Sometimes you even hear the rumor that an application photo has been banned altogether. This is, of course, false.
Advantages of an application without a photo
There are advantages to sending an application without a photo. For example, it prevents discrimination based on ethnicity or appearance. Also, the focus falls more on your background. If the employer explicitly mentions that he does not want an application photo, you will have to do without it. For all other jobs, applying without a photo can quickly lead to numerous disadvantages.
Disadvantages of an application without a photo
The disadvantage of an application without an application photo is quite clear: The first impression of your person is missing. Although it is no longer mandatory to submit an application photo in Germany, many employers still insist on it. If you apply without an application photo, you will leave a negative impression on some possible jobs. However, as long as you apply to a reputable company, you should not have any problems with discrimination. This is because there are specially trained people working there who will read through your documents. They know what is important and remain neutral when reading applications. Often, the company's HR department will rewrite the requirement to submit a photo. With requirements such as "complete application documents" or "meaningful application documents", they usually indirectly indicate that they want an application with a photo.
What do I need to consider for my photo shoot?
You have decided to have an application photo taken of you and are thinking about going to the photographer for application photos. The question is how to find the right contact person.
PicturePeople offers you the possibility to choose from three flexible application photo packages, which exactly meet your requirements. No matter if you choose a print application, a digital application or a digital plus application, we will always get the best out of you. To ensure that your application photo is as good as possible, you should consider a few things in advance.
PicturePeople offers you the possibility to choose from three flexible application photo packages, which exactly meet your requirements. No matter if you choose a print application, a digital application or a digital plus application, we will always get the best out of you. To ensure that your application photo is as good as possible, you should consider a few things in advance.
The annoying problem with your hair
If you want to go back to the hairdresser before your big appearance, make sure you don't go straight to the photo studio after your visit. Although your hair will look great afterwards, people with short hair can have residue hanging from their necks, which can get in the way of the finished application photo and can be difficult to edit. So it's best to make your appointment with the hairdresser the day before.
If you have a beard, make sure to treat it carefully to show your best side. When shaving, make sure to take care of irritated skin to avoid red skin areas or cuts. Also, your beard should be evenly trimmed or trimmed.
Think about what kind of industry your employer serves. If you're applying to an optometrist, you may want to wear glasses in your application photo. Even if they only have regular lenses. If you are applying for a beauty salon, your make-up should be perfect. This way you can design your application photo creatively and adapted to the job. Check your clothes at least one day before your shooting for stains or damage. Nothing is more annoying at the shooting than the anticipation of a professional application photo, which suffers due to mistakes in the outfit. If you notice something like that on location, it will also affect your mood. So be sure to check all the clothes!
If you have a beard, make sure to treat it carefully to show your best side. When shaving, make sure to take care of irritated skin to avoid red skin areas or cuts. Also, your beard should be evenly trimmed or trimmed.
Think about what kind of industry your employer serves. If you're applying to an optometrist, you may want to wear glasses in your application photo. Even if they only have regular lenses. If you are applying for a beauty salon, your make-up should be perfect. This way you can design your application photo creatively and adapted to the job. Check your clothes at least one day before your shooting for stains or damage. Nothing is more annoying at the shooting than the anticipation of a professional application photo, which suffers due to mistakes in the outfit. If you notice something like that on location, it will also affect your mood. So be sure to check all the clothes!
Sometimes it's the little things
It may sound superfluous or strange, but: Get enough sleep before your shoot! You want to look fresh and refreshed in your professional application photo. A night out or poor sleep will show later, leading to unattractive results. We are happy to edit your photos depending on the package, but there is no substitute for natural freshness. If you wear lipstick, make sure that none of it gets on your teeth. An open smile and showing teeth goes down well in job application photos, but it is quickly ruined by unsightly lipstick stains. It's best not to wear tight bracelets that you won't be wearing in the picture a few hours before the job application photo shoot. Marks stand out negatively. In addition, remove hair ties that you have tightened around your wrist. Of course, your photographer will check everything with you on location to make sure that the details are correct.
Conclusion: A professional application photo paves the way for your future
A professional application photo is your chance to take your career to the next level. Whether you're looking for new prospects or want to move up, a job application photo is almost essential. If you follow all the points, nothing will stand in the way of a successful application!
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