Headshots v personal brand photography
What’s the difference between headshots and personal brand photography?
As creative business-owners, we are our brand. Our clients want to see who we are. It’s a well-worn truism that they need to “know, like and trust” us before they buy.
A headshot serves that purpose at the most basic level - on our company “Who we are” page or our LinkedIn or social media profiles; inside the dust jacket of our latest publication or as part of a press pack. It says “this is what I look like” and a skilled photographer can ensure it also says something about your character. Eg: I am approachable/ fun/ professional/ creative/ informal etc.
For those starting out on their business journey, or anyone really, an up-to-date headshot is an essential element to have in place.
But if you’re running a business it’s as much about engagement as about projecting an image: It’s not just the photos; it’s the wider story you’re telling.
A personal brand session gives you a personalised stock library of relevant photos that matches what you’re saying. Professional, creative imagery, not just photos of yourself, but images that speak to the people you’re trying to reach. It aims to show who you are, what you stand for and what it’s like to work with you.
If you’ve been struggling to find the right photos to go with your content, or you’ve noticed that engagement is lacklustre, it might be because you’re coming at it from the wrong direction. Are you using images that don’t really line up with your message? With a personal brand session, we start with the story and create the photos around that.
Personal brand photos have a much wider application, too: You can use them throughout your website; to illustrate social media, blog and newsletter content, on printed marketing materials, book covers and PR packs, to publicise events, speaking gigs, and much more.
Do you want to stand out with a variety of images that professionally and consistently communicate your message? If the answer’s yes, then personal brand photography could be the right choice for you.
Whether you need a simple (but not generic or boring!) headshot to update your online profiles or the full personal brand treatment, I'd love to help.