When it comes to the question of headshots vs. a branding session, there are really three things to consider. First, WHY do you need your professional photo(s), second, WHAT is your photo need, and finally, WHO is your audience.
Why
Why do you need professional images? Are you an author? An accountant? Are you updating a website image or need an author or speaker image?
It's important to know that not everyone needs a branding session. In fact, often times a well taken headshot is all that a lot of people need, especially if you're updating your resume or looking for a job. Headshots are quick and easy, and it doesn't require that much prep in advance. When you sign up for a headshot mini session, you have the option of doing the prep yourself (doing your own hair and makeup and choosing your own outfit) which is a great way to save when on a tight budget. You can also choose to work with a hair and makeup artist and/or a clothing stylist to help you feel amazing and ready for your shoot. A headshot session is 20 minutes in front of the camera, and you end up with 2 images you can use (with an option to get a few more).
If you need images because you are an entrepreneur, a freelancer, a small business owner, a creative, or anyone who needs to convince clients or potential employers that you're the right person for them, then a branding session is probably the right choice.
Think of it this way - a headshot gives a description of what you look like, a branding image tells a story.With a branding session, you're still getting images of you, but everything is done with intentionality. Do you need creative images that help you stand out from your competitors? Do you need images where you show your clients what you do (service or product images)? With a branding session, we do a lot of prep (on our end) beforehand to make sure we get your messaging right.
WHAT
What do you need images of? Are you a service provider? Do you sell a product? Do you interact with people or technology? Do your clients come to your office and you want to show what that experience would be like?
In truth, people are very hesitant to try new things. The more you can paint a picture of what an experience or interaction with you or your company will be like, the more your future clients are likely to feel comfortable buying from you.
The more they trust you, the more they will purchase from you.Think about this in terms of products or services you have purchased in the past. What makes you commit to that specific business instead of others? You learn their brand story (quality of product/service, investment, passion, purpose), you align with that story and trust is built. But you haven't even tried their product yet! you've made all those decisions based on what you see and understand about them, which is based on how they have presented themselves to you. Photo and video are some of the most powerful ways to share your story and build that needed trust.
And of course, for those of you that are employees that needs a bio and picture on a website or posted somewhere, you just need your headshot.
I would describe the need for a brand session vs a headshot mini session this way - If you are involved in any work where you or your story are directly involved in bringing in clients, than a branding session is your best bet. If your clients are found for you, then a simple headshot will do. But of course, the choice is always up to you!
Who
Who is your audience? Are they someone that would be interested in knowing about you and your story? Are they busy and looking for a quick purchase of something they need?
These are all questions that point to one main thing: people have a lot of choices, and they use their context clues to make decisions. So if they don't find anything that is interesting or something they can relate to on your website or marketing outlet, they will move on.
The world is looking for more genuine connection. We are looking for a story to connect to. We all want to belong in this crazy, fast paces, lonely world.
Ultimately, this is why entrepreneurs, small business owners and creatives choose a branding shoot over a quick headshot session. It's creating a story, a connection and part of your brand. It's product and service images, and multiple portrait images to tell a whole story to a client who is wanting to be a part of something.
Branding Photography
The images included in this post are from a branding shoot with Pillars of Throw. This is an example of images that tell a story. We took time to really let Cat's personality shine through, and you can see how warm and welcoming she is. When I look at her images and I see someone who is genuine and kind. I see someone who is excited to get to know you and who makes trustworthy and quality products.
This is the power of a personal brand session.
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