Branding Photography and Why You Need It

What is Branding?

​Branding is a combination of the image and reputation of you or your company. It is what comes to mind when clients and potential clients hear your name, which includes your logo, color scheme, and if you have quality products or services. Think of Target, Starbucks, and Amazon. Each of these companies has a strong brand. You probably were able to quickly recall their logos, colors, and the quality of their products and or services.
 
Miriam Webster defines “brand” as:
 
1) a public image, reputation, or identity conceived of as something to be marketed or promoted,
2) a class of goods identified by name as the product of a single firm or manufacturer,
3) a characteristic or distinctive kind.
 

What is Branding Photography?

​Branding photography is the taking of professional images designed to showcase your business, from headshots to products images. The images tell the story of how you solve your client’s problem(s) either through services or products. The photographs may be used on the business’s website, marketing materials, LinkedIn and other social media platforms.

Why Branding Images are Important?

In today’s world, social media plays a central role for many people to showcase their brand. Websites are also a key way for your clients and potential clients to learn more about you. Branding photos are a way to represent you and your business to those clients and future clients. It is a way to introduce yourself to them. The pictures will help you tell your story and help you stand out. It is vital to be consistent in your messaging and color scheme so the pictures match your brand.
 
I recently did a branding photoshoot with a local real estate agent. She wanted new headshots because it had been a few years since her last one was taken and she wanted something different. She didn’t want the old-school standard headshot but rather photos that showcased more of her personality. During our consultation call, we discussed the details about how she would use the images and what exactly she wanted to showcase. She LOVES dogs and is a fur mom of two little guys. I encouraged her to bring one to the shoot, the other guy is older and doesn’t get around very well anymore. She also loves her city and supporting local businesses. The shots we did included a few casual headshots and lifestyle images around town with and without her dog. She now has a variety of pictures to use on her website and social media.

Showcase YOU in your Business.

​In 2020, with so much remote work, we learned that our pictures used in business are very important for connecting with our audience, from peers to clients. A headshot for your LinkedIn profile or website is not just a picture; it is part of your brand. It can show your confidence, your openness, or fierceness.
 
So what message is your headshot conveying? Does it match your brand? If not, it’s time to reevaluate your headshot.
 
Contact me if you are interested in learning more about branding photography and scheduling a session.