In this post I’m explaning why A personal branding photshoot is more than just a headshot.

You must have noticed by now that we live in a world where visuals are everything. Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, website, marketing, prints. The first step we take when browsing a new website is to visit the about page. I’ve to say, it can be rather disappointing to visit a business website with little information about the person behind it. Another downfall is the overuse of cheesy stock photographs. I’ve recently spoken to a website designer who said he abhors stock photography, and it would be refreshing for business to create their images for branding.

So what’s the difference between a headshot and personal branding? A headshot is, by definition, a type of photograph that we use on our passports, driving licences, and LinkedIn profiles, but it doesn’t tell much about ourselves, and it makes us look just like one of the same in a crowd of profiles.

Personal branding has a personality attached to it, which means a personal branding portrait tells about yourself, makes you more approachable and elevates your brand. It doesn’t stop at portraits, though and can include headshots, portraits, action and detail shots telling your business’s story. Personal branding is used in various posts, i.e., social media profiles, prints, brochures, ads, promotions, flyers, business cards, about pages, contact pages, newsletters, magazine features, articles, and even your dating profile. The list is endless! The idea behind a personal branding photo shoot is to get to know you and your brand better, understand your message, and determine what you are trying to communicate, as well as where and how you want to use your images.

It will also require some effort on your side to figure out what your brand’s about and how you want to be portrayed. The request I often receive from clients is, “I want to look approachable but still professional.” What does approachable mean to you? Your brand might be better suited for an on-location photo shoot or in a studio. It is all down to you. My goal with a personal branding photo shoot is to capture your incredible self, not just a face framed inside a border.

These words by Fredrik Eklund summarise everything about showing yourself in your brand.

“You are your brand. Failure to share yourself openly and honestly is a costly miscalculation. Who doesn’t want to be around someone who’s comfy in their skin? On the contrary, who likes hanging around phonies?… Who were you as a carefree six-year-old before the world taught you to play it safe and blend in with everyone else? Find yourself; be yourself; sell yourself.”

– Fredrik Eklund

PS. Is it time to elevate your brand? Personal Branding Sessions are available. Get in touch to learn more