How Should You Choose a "Photo That Best Represents You" for Your Entry Sheet (ES)?

September 30, 2026 September 30, 2026

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Depending on the company, you may be asked to attach a "photo that best represents you" to your Entry Sheet (ES). However, if you are suddenly asked to attach a photo that represents you, you might be at a loss as to what kind of photo to send. In this article, we will explain how to choose a "photo that best represents you" to attach to your ES.

1.A photo where you are the main subject is best
2.Choose a photo with a clear point you want to convey
3.Are there photos you should avoid using?
4.If you don't have a suitable photo, it's OK to retake one Summary
5.Summary

1.A photo that makes it easy to see which one is you is best

A photo taken alone or with a small group of people is even better. If you choose one where you are pictured with others, make sure your face is clearly visible. Be sure to write a clear explanation, such as "I am the second person from the left." Since you need to directly convey your personality and characteristics to the hiring manager, it is important to keep in mind a photo that effectively showcases yourself.

It is not entirely forbidden to choose a photo without people in it, but in that case, a photo that leaves an immediate impression is more effective. Also, make sure you can clearly explain the reason why you chose that photo.

2.Choose a photo with a clear point you want to convey

Consider the purpose of the photo as further deepening your personality, characteristics, and self-promotion points conveyed in the text of your ES. If you want to convey a bright impression, choose a photo with a natural smile, and ensure there is no significant discrepancy with the content of your ES.

Also, choosing a photo with fewer subjects narrows down the amount of information, making it easier for the interviewer to grasp the key points. This ties back to the point of choosing a photo where you are the main subject.

A photo that represents you ≠ Your favorite photo

Choosing a "photo that best represents you" simply because "I look attractive in it" or "it looks fun" is not recommended. This becomes just a "favorite photo." Be careful not to confuse "your favorite photo" with "a photo that best represents you."

For a "photo that best represents you," it is important to select a picture that allows you to promote yourself using that photo.

3.Are there photos you should avoid using?

You are good to go as long as you keep in mind that it is a photo used for job hunting. It does not need to be a photo where you are wearing a suit or office casual attire, but be sure to thoroughly check your clothing, situation, and what is pictured. For example, it is best to avoid photos showing drinking parties, smoking, or gambling.

3 key points for NG (unacceptable) photos

Attention is required not only for the content of the photo, but also for its condition. The following photos are NG, so check them before submitting.

・Old photos
If there is a proper reason, such as an event from your high school days having a significant impact on who you are today, using a photo from that time is fine. However, in job hunting, you will often be asked about your university days, so if you have photos from your university days, it is better to use a newer photo.

・Low-quality photos
At a minimum, use a photo with a quality that allows someone to understand what is depicted at a glance. Interviewers read many Entry Sheets in a single day. Photos that cannot be understood without looking closely might be overlooked. Also, despite assuming that others will look at it, attaching a low-quality photo carries the risk of being perceived as lacking seriousness, so be careful.

・Heavily edited photos
Photos from photo booths (Purikura) or with heavy filters are not suitable for job hunting, so avoid them.
It is not a problem if it is slight editing to improve appearance or increase resolution.

4.If you don't have a suitable photo, it's OK to retake one

If you have something you want to highlight but don't have a suitable photo, it is OK to shoot one specifically for your ES. You might ask for help from friends or family, and those aiming for positions like news anchors may even hire a professional. Connect it to your self-promotion with a photo of your desired composition and content.

I actually asked a friend to take a "photo that best represents me" during my job search!
Since I wanted to write about my part-time job experience in my ES, I had them take a picture of me while at work. I was glad I asked because I could also consult with them when choosing the photo.

Summary

When choosing the "photo that best represents you" required for an entry sheet in job hunting, it is recommended to select one that fits these 3 points!

3 points for a "photo that best represents you"

A photo where it is easy to tell where you are located
A photo with a clear point you want to convey
A photo taken during your university years

On the other hand, avoid the following points.

A photo with a large crowd where it's unclear which one is you
A favorite photo with no particular story behind it
A photo that is too old
A photo with poor image quality
A photo with heavy editing
Photos depicting drinking parties, smoking, gambling, etc.

In job hunting, a "photo that best represents you" is an important element for interviewers to understand your appeal more deeply. Choosing an appropriate photo will lead to a better impression on your entry sheet. Think carefully and select your photo to take a step closer to success.

We sincerely hope this article will be helpful in your job hunting activities.

Speaking of photos needed for job hunting, photo identification is something you must not forget! At 19Studio, based on interviews with interviewers and HR managers at general companies, we shoot job-hunting ID photos that capture all the key points. In order to make time to carefully choose or retake your "photo that best represents you," it is recommended to quickly leave your ID photo to the professionals!

Click here for details!