The Problem with AI Headshots: Why Fake Photos Hurt Real Brands

Let’s just say it: this one might sting a little.

AI headshots are everywhere right now—slick, easy, and kind of impressive. But if you're using AI-generated portraits to represent your brand, especially if you value authenticity, transparency, and trust, I have to lovingly challenge you: is that really the message you want to send?

Can AI Replace a Real Photoshoot? Not If You Value Authenticity.

AI might be getting better, but the truth is, it’s still not you. It’s a stylized version, a manufactured likeness, and often—something that doesn’t even fully exist.

If your brand is built on connection, trust, and a real relationship with your clients, your photos need to reflect that. People want to know who they’re working with. They want to feel like they see you—not a digital approximation.

Why the Temptation Is Real (But Still Not the Best Move)

We get it. Scheduling a photoshoot feels like a lot. Maybe you're uncomfortable in front of the camera. Maybe you’ve convinced yourself you’re “not photogenic.” AI offers a shortcut—a way to look polished without the vulnerability of actually showing up. But that's exactly why it's the wrong move.

As a photographer who specializes in making real people feel confident, comfortable, and gorgeous in front of the lens, I promise: the right photographer can make the process not only painless—but enjoyable. You may be surprised at how much you love what you see.

My AI Headshot Experiment (Spoiler: It Got Weird Fast)

As a little experiment, I decided to see what all the buzz was about. First, I used an AI generator that asked me a few questions, had me upload a few selfies, and within minutes it spit out one single “headshot.” It was... rough. Off-putting. Almost nothing like me.

Then I went deeper. I paid $35 to one of the more popular AI headshot sites. After uploading 10 decent images of myself, it rejected a few (too blurry, not centered, etc.), but eventually I got the green light — and in return, it generated 100 polished “headshots.”

I’ll be honest: some of them were shockingly close. At first glance, even my husband and son were like, “Wait… is that you?” But there was always something off. The eyes. The expression. The vibe. They looked like versions of me that I’ve never actually been.

And that’s the problem.

Because no matter how “good” some of them looked, none of them were real. I never stood in that light. I never wore that outfit. I never held that expression. And I would never, in good conscience, use one of those images to represent my business — especially when the heart of what I do is all about authenticity, confidence, and truly being seen.

AI Headshots Are Missing the Magic Ingredient

Here’s what AI can’t replicate:

• Your microexpressions

• The connection in your eyes

• The way you laugh mid-pose

• The emotion, the nuance, the real you

A great headshot doesn’t just show your face—it tells your story. AI can mimic the shape of your face, but it can’t capture your presence. And presence is what builds trust and connection online.

You Deserve to Be Seen—The Real You

This is bigger than just a photo. It’s about owning your story, showing up with confidence, and investing in your own worth. Your clients aren’t looking for perfect. They’re looking for real. That’s where your power is. That’s what great branding photography pulls out of you.

And if you’ve ever walked away from a photo session saying “That didn’t even feel like me,” I want to show you what’s possible when it does.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Be Real (Literally)

AI headshots might be fun, even convenient—but they are not a replacement for real, intentional, confidence-building photography. If you’re serious about your brand, your legacy, or your visibility—don’t skip the shoot. Show up. You’re worth it.

👋 Ready to ditch the filters and show up as the best version of you? Let’s talk about how we can create powerful, authentic portraits you’ll actually love. Schedule your phone call here →