A branding photography session is not limited to a simple headshot; it is a showcase of the one element that distinguishes your business from others – yourself. Who are you? What is your profession? What are your interests? How do you spend your leisure time? These are the factors that can create your personal branding session.

If you are not utilizing all the available types of branding photography to maximize your session, you are disregarding a vast amount of content and marketing materials that you can repurpose time and time again. However, if you are unsure about the types of photos that you require, do not worry as we have got you covered with a list of five varieties of personal branding photography.

MODERN HEADSHOT:

The modern headshot does not necessarily mean wearing a blazer and standing against a white or gray background (unless you prefer that!). Nonetheless, it should show you smiling and looking straight into the camera. People, especially your ideal clients, connect with people, and it is difficult to establish a connection with someone who cannot make eye contact! Super important!

But I’d also like to add that a conventional pose does not necessarily imply that the images are dull or dreary! You can still showcase your personality through your choice of location, clothing, or accessories. The days of plain backdrop headshots are long gone, and fun & inviting is what pulls people in.

LIFESTYLE:

What are your hobbies? What do you love doing? Where do you usually spend your weekends? You can highlight these in your lifestyle branding photos because they are part of WHO you are. Enjoy your favorite cup of coffee (without sugar, with cream, please), browse your phone, wear your comfiest pants, tie your hair in a messy bun, and exhibit your true self. This is an ideal opportunity to incorporate other people, as well! Taking a few images of you playing with your kids, laughing with a friend…or even a client or a sweet snap of you and your partner can go a long way in helping people on the internet to get to know you on a personal level.

Make that you have a combination of images with you looking straight into the camera (refer to #1!) and some with you looking away. Don’t forget to capture some details (such as a close-up shot of your favorite tea mug or your hand reaching into a bowl of your favorite snack).

AT WORK/BEHIND THE SCENES:

People are highly visual creatures, and when we collaborate with someone, we want to have an idea of what it will be like, even before it is official. Images of you working can accomplish this for potential clients, making it easier for them to trust that you are a professional who knows what they are doing. If you are a photographer, show yourself holding a camera (and let’s be honest, smiling at that LCD screen because the photos you are taking are exceptional); if you sell and educate about essential oils, exhibit yourself leading a class. Behind-the-scenes photos of you working on your laptop or constructing your empire from your phone can be equally important to demonstrate what you do all day!

TOOLS OF THE TRADE:

There are probably a few tools in your arsenal that make your job a lot easier. This is where you can flaunt them! If you are a florist, showcase some beautiful blooms alongside your pruning shears. If you are a baker, display your KitchenAid Mixer from your pantry. If you are a makeup artist or hairdresser, exhibit your eye makeup palettes. The possibilities are endless!

FLATLAYS AND VIGNETTES:

Flat lays are an excellent way to break up your usual marketing images. They are taken from above (looking down), which can offer a different perspective from the usual straight-on shots that we typically include in our websites and social media feeds. They are a great way to tell a story and create visual interest. To create the perfect flat lay, ensure that your eye has an apparent path to follow through the frame. If this concept is overwhelming, start with basic flat lays. Various layouts can be discussed based on what your brand is and what you are wanting to showcase.