[Han Researcher Magazine vol.29] Ace Your Japanese Job Hunting Headshot: Essential Rules You Need to Know
###### When preparing for job hunting in Japan, you may often encounter different rules than in Korea.
In particular, the headshot on your rirekisho (履歴書, resume) is a crucial element that determines your first impression.
There are actually cases where candidates receive deductions for submitting photos without knowing the detailed regulations. 😥
As a hair and makeup expert and photo studio operator, I'll break down the key regulations for Japanese job hunting headshots.
###### 📐 Size — More strict than you think
The standard headshot size for Japanese resumes is 4cm (height) × 3cm (width).
This is the same size as in Korea, but a margin of error of 1-2mm is generally acceptable.
For web submissions (such as entry sheets), the standard is 560px (height) × 420px (width).
The file format is typically JPEG or PNG.
⚠️ Some companies may have separately specified sizes, so be sure to check the job posting!
🎨 Background Color — Plain is Key
The background must be a plain (solid color) background. The three most commonly used colors are white, blue, and gray.
- White: The safest option, but be careful not to blend in with a white shirt.
- Blue (水色): The most preferred background color in Japan. It gives a clean and trustworthy impression.
- Gray: Gives a stable and neat impression.
Photos with complex backgrounds or gradients are not acceptable.
👔 Attire — Job Hunting Suit is the Standard
The standard attire is a job hunting suit (就活スーツ).
- Colors: Black, navy, or gray are recommended.
- Shirt to wear underneath: Plain white shirt (for women, a white blouse or collared shirt)
- Tie (for men): Solid color or simple pattern that is not too flashy
- Remove all accessories — earrings, necklaces, brooches, etc.
💡 Some companies view wearing accessories in Japanese job hunting photos as a deduction factor.
💇 Hairstyle — Neatness is the Top Priority
The most important thing about your hairstyle is to keep your bangs from covering your eyes.
###### **Women:**
- Keep it neat with a bob, ponytail, or low bun
- Arrange your bangs so they don't cover your eyes
- Dyeing is not acceptable — black or dark brown is the standard
- Avoid excessive volume or waves
Men:
- Short and neat style
- Keep your bangs from covering your forehead
- Black hair is recommended; avoid excessive use of wax or hair gel
😊 Expression — A Natural Smile is the Answer
The ideal expression is to smile naturally with your mouth slightly closed.
- ✅ Slight smile with mouth closed (naturally raising the corners of your mouth)
- ❌ Big smile showing teeth — Avoid in Japanese job hunting
- ❌ Expressionless — May look unmotivated
- ❌ Squinting or tilting your head
💡 The key to Japanese job hunting photos is an expression that conveys both "trustworthiness + friendliness."
📅 Shooting Deadline — Within 3 Months is the Rule
Although not a strict rule, it is generally considered polite to use photos taken within 3 months of the application date.
If the company specifies "photos taken within ○ months," be sure to follow that.
It is recommended to take photos in advance before the job hunting season begins, and retake any old photos.
📱 Are AI Headshots OK? — The Conclusion is YES
###### Recently, an increasing number of job seekers are using AI headshot services.
The artificial feel that was present in the early stages is gradually disappearing, and many people are likely to be interested in the convenience and lack of time and space constraints.
Unless the company specifically states "photos taken at a photo studio," AI headshots can be used as long as the above regulations are followed.
Our Monkos.ai uses technology that fundamentally blocks deepfakes using real-time selfie photos,
to create safer, more trustworthy, and realistic job application photos.
We only utilize AI for the technology; the method is essentially the same as a studio system.
Monkos.ai allows you to set the suit, background color, and expression to meet Japanese job hunting standards,
and supports high-quality downloads so you can use it immediately for your resume submission.
👉 Check it out now at monkos.ai →
monkos.ai Log in and get 10 credits for free!
(Shooting is free, and watermark-free high-quality downloads are available after Lemon Squeezy payment!)
📌 Checklist Summary
- Size: 4cm × 3cm (Web: 560 × 420px)
- Background: Plain (White/Blue/Gray)
- Attire: Job Hunting Suit + White Shirt + Remove Accessories
- Hair: Neat Bangs + Black/Dark Color
- Expression: Natural Smile with Mouth Closed
- Shooting: Within 3 Months