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Personal Branding Photography: What It Is and Why It Matters for Your Business

Branding

As a business owner, you’ve probably heard more than once that you need to get branding photos taken, and maybe you’ve even looked into getting personal branding photography. Instead of moving this further down your never-ending checklist, I want to share why it’s important to invest in branding photos sooner rather than later. Plus, what the benefits are of having these photos taken. 

Keep reading to learn more about what personal branding photography is all about and take a behind-the-lens look at Ebb & Flow Nutrition & Consulting’s personal branding session. 

What Is Personal Branding Photography?

Personal branding photography tells your brand’s story through captivating images, from professional headshots to product shots. It visually defines your identity, making your brand memorable and distinct in a crowded market. These images can be used on your website, social media accounts, and more. 

Why Do You Need a Personal Branding Session? 

If you’re a business owner, having a brand for your business should be a non-negotiable. Part of your overall branding strategy should include branding photography. 

Why are branding photos so important? Because your personal branding photos create a valuable first impression, show your personality, and build trust and confidence in your business. 

Think of it this way – if you went to a business’s website and they had zero photos (or just generic stock photos) and plain text, and then you went to their competitor’s website and they had stunning branding and product photos, you’d likely choose to invest in the business that had photos. 

Why? Because branding photos convey a powerful message. They also show actual, real-life pictures of who you will be buying from or working with.

You’ve likely heard it before when it comes to your marketing strategy, but if you want to attract more clients and set yourself apart, you have to show your face. This is precisely what your brand images help you achieve. 

Another great reason to invest in branding photos? To increase your confidence in your business! Branding photos are a way to reaffirm your confidence in who you are and what you. They also show off your amazing business in the best light possible!

Client Feature Personal Branding Photo Session: Ebb & Flow Nutrition & Consulting 

I had the opportunity to photograph a personal branding session for Ashley. Ashley is an incredible integrative and functional registered dietitian/nutritionist and the owner of Ebb & Flow Nutrition & Consulting. 

I helped Ashley with planning, styling, and photographing her personal brand session, which is what I do for all of my clients to make this process as easy and stress-free as possible. For her session, Ashley told me she wanted “sincere, genuine, no fluff photos and for the photos to speak to her future clients tastefully and elegantly.” 

How it works 

Inquire 

The process began with me first sending over my rates and a booking link to schedule a complimentary call. This call was essential so I could get a better idea of Ashley’s brand and what she wants to achieve for this project. 

This is something I always do, as I want to make sure first that we are a good fit for each other and that you get the chance to ask me any questions that you have. On the call, Ashley and I discussed what branding package worked best for her, and we worked through some potential dates for her session. 

Planning 

After our call, the next step was to send over a more detailed questionnaire to really hone in on her brand. My brand questionnaire isn’t a set of generic, surface-level questions. 

This is my opportunity to really get to know your brand and business inside and out, so we can plan a session that truly reflects you and your business. I also always request inspiration images and a Pinterest board to help me better understand your vision. 

In my questionnaire, I also send over helpful info, including tips on what to wear, grooming and personal prep, a props checklist, a timeline, and more, so you have everything you need and feel as prepared as possible. 

This way, you aren’t showing up to the session wondering what it’s going to look like, what poses to do, or realizing we don’t have the props you need. 

Your session 

Once I have all the info from your branding questionnaire, I will start putting together a shot list and finalizing everything for you. The next step is showing up to your session. 

Also, for all my personal brand sessions, photo studio access is included in every package. Once we meet for your session, I’ll walk you through some basic posing prompts and tips to help you get comfortable in front of the camera and flesh out the day’s plan. 

Ashley and I ended up planning her session at a lovely natural-light studio in San Francisco. It was truly the perfect spot to fit her vision for the session and her brand. I styled all the details for her session using the items she and I both brought. Styling is something I assist you with as well during your session, in addition to posing, directing, and photographing. 

During her session, we took a variety of photos, including headshots/portraits, lifestyle shots, and detail shots with a mix of backdrops and props so she could leave her session knowing she had everything she needed for the launch of her virtual practice. 

Ready to Plan Your Personal Branding Session?

I hope you found all of this info on personal branding photography helpful. Personal branding photography is incredibly important (and always worth the investment) as these images will help you easily connect and resonate with your target audience. Furthermore, they will build trust and credibility in your business. 

Looking for a San Francisco personal branding photographer? Your personal brand is unique, and your photos should reflect that. From quick professional headshots to dynamic lifestyle portraits, my tailored approach ensures that every image reflects your individuality and aligns seamlessly with your brand message. 

A personal branding session with me includes: 

  • Location scouting
  • Outfit planning
  • Your high-res final images will be delivered via an online gallery within 4 weeks
  • Online hosting gallery 
  • Personal printing rights
  • Styling of details, if applicable

Let’s elevate your online presence and make a lasting impression! You can learn more about my branding sessions here or inquire here. 


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