Canva’s AI Headshot Generator: A Deeper Dive Review

Canva’s been one of our team’s go-to platforms. 

Whether we need to design a few ads, or update a pitch deck, it’s a staple.

But recently, Canva’s expanded their suite of AI tools to include something we had to try for ourselves: AI-generated headshots.

Naturally, we had to try it. 

From Design Templates to AI Headshots

For the past couple of years Canva’s been rolling out AI features as part of its Magic Studio—Magic Write, Magic Design, and now, Magic Headshots.

It’s kind of like Bettershot, Canva gives Pro Plan users the ability to quickly whip up a single image headshot based on prompts. 

Bettershot however offers a variety of headshot styles tailored to different professions and needs, like LinkedIn and students headshots, or headshots specifically for military personnel,  lawyers, and corporate teams.

Our Honest Take on Canva’s Headshots

Look, we love Canva! 

But when it comes to AI-generated headshots, we were pretty underwhelmed.

Our headshot turned out overly airbrushed and clearly "AI-y." The result felt disconnected from the original photos we uploaded. Facial features were off. The skin looked plastic. And just lacked any realism.

Kind of felt like a classic case of 'you get what you pay for'.

On the upside, getting access to their headshot generator was included in our Canva Pro plan—but we only got one output. No batch of photos. Very little control over background and outfit. Plus, the final results turned out more like a cartoon unfortunately. 

See the Results for Yourself

What Canva’s AI Headshot Generator Gets Right

Not to say it was all bad, there were some really cool things we did like:

• Ease of use: If you’re already familiar with Canva, the headshot tool is super intuitive. Upload, click, done.
  
  
• Speed: It was fast. We got results in a few seconds.
  
  

Other Reviews: Not Bad, Not Great

We’re not the only ones who gave Canva’s AI headshot tool a try. Reviews across the web are mixed.

Some users found it decent for casual use  like Jennie Lakenan in her review. 

So while Canva’s tool might work in a pinch, it’s probably not what you want as your digital first impression.

Final Verdict

If you're already using Canva and want to experiment, their headshot generator is worth a shot. But if you’re looking for a realistic, professional, and versatile headshot, this isn’t it.

Want Something Better?

Try Bettershot—built specifically for AI headshots.

Upload 10 casual photos and get back 70+ professional-quality headshots in different outfits, poses, and settings. It’s designed to give you options you’ll actually use—whether you’re updating your LinkedIn, your personal website, or your company’s team page.

Use code BETTER15 for 15% off your first order