The Best Free AI Professional Headshot Generators in 2024

Transform Your LinkedIn Profile: Discover Top Free AI Tools for Professional-Looking Headshots!

Navigating today's competitive job market can be challenging, but presenting yourself with a polished professional headshot, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, is key to setting yourself apart. It not only showcases your professionalism but also lets your personality shine through.

Thanks to the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, creating a standout headshot no longer requires a hefty investment. There are numerous low-cost and free AI-powered headshot generators available that produce images so realistic they're almost indistinguishable from traditional photos.

Whether you prefer a variety of background options or the ability to control your expression, we've compiled a comprehensive list of the top free AI headshot generators. This includes platforms with perpetually free plans and apps offering generous free trials to help you secure your perfect headshot.

Continue reading to learn why AI-generated headshots are a smart professional choice and to explore our roundup of the best free solutions available in 2024.

Why Use an AI Headshot Generator?

A professional headshot can be crucial in making a memorable first impression, whether you're a corporate professional aiming to attract recruiters or an actor seeking new roles. However, the cost of hiring a professional photographer can be prohibitive, often starting at around $100 per session, which may be too steep for those looking to minimize expenses. AI headshot generators offer a cost-effective solution, delivering hyper-realistic images without the high price tag associated with traditional photography.

While the technology isn't perfect, recent advancements have led to a significant improvement in the quality of AI-generated headshots, which can be tailored to meet specific personal or professional requirements. These headshots are versatile too, ideal for updating business profiles like LinkedIn, enhancing resumes, or adding a professional touch to your email correspondence.

However, it's important to note that not all budget-friendly AI tools produce high-quality results. Some may churn out images that look obviously artificial and fail to accurately represent the user’s true appearance. To navigate this, we've curated a list of the best free AI headshot generators that consistently deliver realistic and professional results. Check out our top recommendations below.

Top Best 5 AI Headshot Generators in 2024

Remini – Best Overall Free AI Headshot Generator

MyEdit – Most Background Options 

InstaSize – Best for Customizing Facial Expressions

LightX – Top Choice for Realistic Headshots

Dreamwave AI – Ideal for Professional Team Headshots 

1. Remini – Best Overall Free AI Headshot Generator

Offering a seven-day free trial, Remini has quickly become a go-to AI photo enhancer, especially after gaining viral status on TikTok. It soared to the top of the App Store as countless Gen Z users discovered its ability to generate realistic professional headshots for platforms like LinkedIn. 

Users can upload a variety of selfies, select the ‘Casual Headshot’ option, and let Remini do its magic, analyzing facial features and skin tones to produce professional-looking images. The app also allows tweaks to perfect the realism, giving it an edge over other generators. Note that after the trial, a paid subscription is necessary for continued use.

2. MyEdit – Most Background Options 

MyEdit stands out with its broad selection of background options and a user-friendly interface that makes professional headshots easily accessible. By uploading just one reference image, users can generate a variety of AI headshots, choosing from eight different styles and numerous backgrounds, including brick walls and office settings. While there is a free plan, it limits downloads to one per day. For unlimited access and downloads, consider their affordable $4 monthly Image Plan.

3. InstaSize – Best for Customizing Facial Expressions

Available on Android and iOS, InstaSize caters to mobile users wanting to update their portfolios or LinkedIn pictures. This app excels in customization, offering over 130 professional-grade photo filters and control over facial expressions, ensuring the headshots reflect your personality. While there is a basic free forever plan, the more comprehensive features are available under a three-day free trial of their paid plans, which cost $4.99 per month thereafter.

4. LightX – Top Choice for Realistic Headshots

LightX helps users create professional and realistic headshots with ease, offering a selection of 11 style templates and the ability to tailor images through specific prompts. Its intuitive interface suits beginners, and while it has a free starter plan, a 30-day free trial of premium plans offers more features starting at just $2.99 a month. However, it’s less customizable compared to other options.

5. Dreamwave AI – Ideal for Professional Team Headshots 

Developed by experts from Google and MIT, Dreamwave AI excels in generating high-resolution headshots for individuals and teams. It provides extensive customization with a vast range of styles and backgrounds. The team headshot feature is particularly unique among free AI generators. Starting is simple with five to eight reference images, though be prepared for a longer processing time of about an hour. Dreamwave’s free plan includes 20 photos, with paid packages beginning at $55 per month for a broader selection.

These AI headshot generators offer various strengths, catering to different needs and budgets, ensuring there's a solution for nearly anyone looking to upgrade their professional image in 2024.