The AI Headshot Prompt for your 2026 Glow Up
This is AI!!!!!
This is the original picture!
A few days ago, I played with ChatGPT’s new image feature and tested whether it could turn a simple, front-facing photo into a professional-looking headshot.
I was genuinely shocked by how real it looked!
So I’m sharing the exact prompt I used below, unchanged, so you can try it properly without watered-down shortcuts.
How to use this prompt:
Take one clear, front-facing photo (natural light works best)
Paste the prompt exactly as written into ChatGPT
Upload your photo
Let the AI do its thing
This works best when you follow it word for word
The Full Headshot Prompt:
Using the uploaded image as a strict facial reference with high likeness priority, recreate the same person with identical facial structure, proportions, skin tone, eye shape, nose, lips, and overall likeness. The reference image should be treated as non-negotiable and followed as closely as possible.
Ultra-realistic editorial headshot photographed from the chest up.
Refined editorial portrait style suitable for press, media features, speaking profiles, LinkedIn, and professional branding. Soft studio lighting that mimics natural window light, gentle contrast, realistic shadows, and accurate depth.
True-to-life skin texture preserved, visible pores and natural lines, no smoothing, no airbrushing, no beauty filters. Skin should look realistic and human.
Neutral studio background in warm beige or soft grey. Polished but natural makeup that closely matches the reference image, enhancing existing features only. Defined brows, subtle eye makeup, natural glossy lips. Calm, warm, self-assured expression with direct eye contact.
Hair neatly styled and professional, smooth finish, natural hairline preserved. Wardrobe elevated and realistic, structured blazer or elegant top in a neutral or jewel tone, professional and understated, minimal jewellery.
Shot as if on a high-end DSLR camera with an 85mm lens, shallow depth of field, sharp focus, realistic lighting falloff, professional editorial quality.
No exaggerated facial features, no cartoon or AI stylisation, no altered facial structure, no glamour retouching, accurate anatomy and proportions, realistic human appearance.
Aspect ratio 4:5.
End prompt.
This is just one small example of what AI can do when you know how to speak to it properly. Most people are barely scratching the surface.
If you want to learn how to use AI to genuinely support your life, your work, your routines and your glow up without overwhelm, I put everything I know into my guide Girl, Use the AI.
No pressure. Just there if you’re curious.