This is one of the more geography-dependent CV questions out there, and following the wrong local convention can genuinely hurt an application, even though the underlying instinct on either side is entirely reasonable.
Where a photo is standard practice
In much of continental Europe, parts of Asia, and the Middle East, including a professional photo is common and expected — leaving it out on a CV in these regions can occasionally read as unusual, though it's rarely disqualifying on its own.
Where a photo is actively discouraged
In the US, UK, and Canada, including a photo is uncommon and can actually work against a candidate — many companies in these markets explicitly avoid photos on CVs to reduce the risk of unconscious bias during hiring, and some large employers' application systems reject CVs with images altogether.
If you do include one
Use a genuinely professional headshot — plain background, appropriate attire, neutral expression — not a cropped social photo. A low-quality or casual image often does more harm than including no photo at all.
Our practical suggestion
When applying internationally or unsure of local convention, it's generally safer to leave the photo out and let your qualifications speak first — a photo can always be provided later in the process if specifically requested, but a CV that reads as inappropriate for the region rarely gets that far.