I possess numerous photographs on my mobile device, but none are suitable for LinkedIn. While selfies and group pictures serve as cherished memories, they lack the professional demeanor required for representing my best self in a work setting.
Artificial intelligence has stepped in to address this issue. The latest AI headshot generators offer convenient solutions, utilizing existing selfies to create workplace-appropriate photos with minimal effort.
Navigating this field can be daunting, especially with the proliferation of services requiring upfront payments before delivering the promised results. To simplify this process, I delved into three distinct AI headshot generators to determine their efficacy, encompassing a free service and two paid options at varying price points. Below are excerpts of the selfies I submitted to all three platforms.
Although none of the AI generators precisely captured my likeness across different scenarios, one came remarkably close.
FastShot AI
This particular headshot generator yielded the least accurate representation, albeit without any cost implications.
FastShot AI simply requests users to upload a single image on its platform, swiftly generating a headshot. The initial two headshots are complimentary. However, the resulting image bore little resemblance to me.
With fewer than 500 users and under 2,500 headshots generated thus far, FastShot AI serves as an introductory platform for AI headshots, albeit not the most refined.
Upon reviewing the privacy policy, I noted a crucial statement: “Images of free users are public, while the renders of users who purchase a subscription remain private.” Free users concerned about data privacy should take note.
Momo
Momo stands out as the most experimental AI headshot generator I experimented with. Upon setting up an AI profile on the iOS application, I discovered the option to request images across diverse themes such as LinkedIn, tattoos, decade-themed transformations, fashion, dream occupations, and travel. Within the LinkedIn category, I could specifically select pictures in formal attire, within an office setting, against black or white backgrounds, among others. Momo’s platform claims to be “preferred by millions.”
My requests included images in formal attire and professional settings. Here are two samples provided by Momo:
Additionally, I requested a 1940s-themed transformation, resulting in one of six images generated by Momo:
Prior to generating any images, users are prompted to choose between a weekly subscription at \(6.99 or an annual plan priced at \)39.99. In my opinion, the service did not justify the cost as the images lacked sufficient resemblance to warrant the investment. While entertaining, they fell short of meeting LinkedIn standards.
Aragon AI
Aragon AI delved deeper by inquiring about specific details like hair color, eye color, ethnicity, and age range before initiating the headshot generation process. The service mandated a minimum of six selfies captured on different days, excluding mirror selfies or group photos. Upon uploading my images, Aragon AI indicated which ones passed the quality assessment and which ones necessitated replacement.
The introductory package offered 20 headshots with 5 outfit and background variations within an hour for \(35. The basic package included 40 headshots and 25 outfit variations in 30 minutes for \)45, while the premium package entailed 100 headshots with 50 outfit variations in 30 minutes for $79.
For comparison, professional headshots typically range from \(300 to \)700 in New York City for a 30-minute session with a photographer and one look. Although in-person options provide greater versatility and a personalized touch through editing.
Opting for the starter package, Aragon AI graciously upgraded me to the premium plan at no additional cost. Within 30 minutes, I received 100 high-definition headshots. Here are two examples:
Aragon AI emerged as the top performer due to its attention to detail, even capturing nuances like the style of glasses I wear. While not flawless, it showcases significant progress. Aragon AI boasts a substantial track record, having generated over 15 million images.
The Verdict
Ultimately, Aragon AI demonstrated the most proficiency in AI headshot generation, although its output falls short of LinkedIn profile picture standards. The upfront payment model employed by Momo and Aragon AI deterred me, as the final results from both services proved unsatisfactory and unusable. For professional headshots, I will continue to rely on human photographers for the time being.
