What is the standard size of a picture on a resume?

The most common resume photo size is 3.5 × 4.5 cm (35 × 45 mm) internationally, or 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) in US-style formats. For digital uploads, use 400 × 400 to 600 × 600 pixels at 300 DPI in JPG or PNG format, keeping the file under 1 MB.

What is the resume photo size in pixels?

For digital uploads and online portals, 600 × 600 pixels at 300 DPI is recommended. The minimum acceptable size for most platforms is 400 × 400 pixels. Use a square (1:1) or vertical (3:4) aspect ratio, and save as JPG or PNG format.

Should I include a photo on my resume?

It depends on your region. In the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, photos are generally not recommended due to anti-discrimination practices. In many European countries (Germany, France, Spain) and Asian countries (China, Japan, South Korea), a professional headshot on your CV is standard and expected. Check the norms for your target country and industry.

What background color is best for a CV photo?

White, light grey, or soft blue backgrounds are the most professional and universally accepted for CV photos. These neutral colors keep attention on your face while maintaining a clean, professional appearance. Avoid textured walls, bright colors, or distracting environments.

Are AI-generated headshots acceptable on a CV?

AI headshots are widely accepted for CVs, resumes and LinkedIn profiles, provided the image accurately represents your current appearance. That single condition is what separates an acceptable one from a misleading one.

What file format should I use for a CV photo?

JPEG or PNG formats work best for CV photos. Both maintain good quality while keeping file sizes manageable. The resolution should be 300 DPI for sharp printing quality. Keep the file size under 1 MB to prevent issues with applicant tracking systems (ATS) and online upload portals.

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Originally published: February 13, 2025 · Updated: March 10, 2026

The standard international CV photo size is 3.5 × 4.5 cm (35 × 45 mm). For US-style resumes, the most common size is 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm). For digital uploads, use 400 × 400 to 600 × 600 pixels at 300 DPI in JPG or PNG format, keeping the file under 1 MB.

Resume and CV photo size guide

Note: In the US and UK, resumes typically do not require a photo. In many European and Asian countries, a professional headshot on your CV is standard practice.

Quick Reference: Resume & CV Photo Sizes

Format	Size	Pixels at 300 DPI	Best For
International CV	3.5 × 4.5 cm (35 × 45 mm)	413 × 531 px	European and Asian job markets
US-style resume	2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)	600 × 600 px	US applications requiring photos
Digital upload (square)	—	400 × 400 to 600 × 600 px	Online portals, PDF resumes
LinkedIn profile	—	800 × 800 px (min 400 × 400)	Professional networking

File format: JPG or PNG | Resolution: 300 DPI | Max file size: Under 1 MB

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Sources & References

LinkedIn Profile Photo Tips — LinkedIn
How Your Profile Photo Impacts Your LinkedIn Presence — LinkedIn Official Blog
AI Image Generation Market Report — Grand View Research
How AI Is Changing Photography — Forbes
Professional Headshot Photography Pricing — Thumbtack

Written by

Apoorv Sharma

Head of Performance

Apoorv leads performance and growth at BetterPic with 9+ years of experience across SEO, SEM, and growth marketing. He oversees content strategy, data-driven marketing, and hands-on testing of AI headshot platforms. Previously held senior performance marketing roles across the US, Belgium, and India.

Google Analytics & Google Ads certified
HubSpot Inbound & Content Marketing certified
9+ years in SaaS growth and performance marketing

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard size of a picture on a resume?: The most common resume photo size is 3.5 × 4.5 cm (35 × 45 mm) internationally, or 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) in US-style formats. For digital uploads, use 400 × 400 to 600 × 600 pixels at 300 DPI in JPG or PNG format, keeping the file under 1 MB.
What is the resume photo size in pixels?: For digital uploads and online portals, 600 × 600 pixels at 300 DPI is recommended. The minimum acceptable size for most platforms is 400 × 400 pixels. Use a square (1:1) or vertical (3:4) aspect ratio, and save as JPG or PNG format.
Should I include a photo on my resume?: It depends on your region. In the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, photos are generally not recommended due to anti-discrimination practices. In many European countries (Germany, France, Spain) and Asian countries (China, Japan, South Korea), a professional headshot on your CV is standard and expected. Check the norms for your target country and industry.
What background color is best for a CV photo?: White, light grey, or soft blue backgrounds are the most professional and universally accepted for CV photos. These neutral colors keep attention on your face while maintaining a clean, professional appearance. Avoid textured walls, bright colors, or distracting environments.
Are AI-generated headshots acceptable on a CV?: AI headshots are widely accepted for CVs, resumes and LinkedIn profiles, provided the image accurately represents your current appearance. That single condition is what separates an acceptable one from a misleading one.
What file format should I use for a CV photo?: JPEG or PNG formats work best for CV photos. Both maintain good quality while keeping file sizes manageable. The resolution should be 300 DPI for sharp printing quality. Keep the file size under 1 MB to prevent issues with applicant tracking systems (ATS) and online upload portals.