Capturing the Story of Your Brand - 5 Reasons Why You Need to Make Branding Headshots a Priority

Why you need to make branding headshots a priority!

Luxe Paws Mobile Pet Spa owner and operator Rhea Vanderwerf pictured here with her darling dog, photographed by Dallas branding photographer Laura Levitan of Mod L Photography

In the digital age first impressions happen in an instant. A compelling headshot that tells a story and conveys your brand is essential to your success. What do you want people to feel when they see your branding headshots? So many people are uncomfortable with having their pictures taken. But it is so important to understand the image you want to project, and then go out and have those pictures taken. A picture is worth a thousand words – what story is yours telling about you and your business?

5 Reasons why you need to make branding headshots a priority

1.

Personifying your brand

You are your brand. Your face needs to be front and center so that people know who they are dealing with. More than that, your headshot should convey your personality. Does your headshot convey what type of business you are in. Do people need to know that you can have fun and cut loose? Or do they need to know that you are serious and trustworthy?

 
When you meet with your headshot photographer to discuss what type of headshots you want, be sure to specify the types of expressions and poses you want. Expression conveys personality. Personality is key to whether a client will trust you with their business.

2.

Establishing trust and brand credibility

People connect with other people. They want to do business with you and your brand. If they have a clear idea of what you stand for and the face behind the business, clients will be more willing to hire you. When clients know you personally it fosters a sense of trust. Think about what your brand should say about your business. Come up with at least 3 words that describe your business. Those words should help to infuse your branding and headshots with personality that is specific to your business.

People believe authenticity. When you clearly showcase the personality behind the business clients will respond well to it. A well-crafted branding headshot communicates professionalism and competence. Your image will reassure your audience of potential clients that they are dealing with a real individual who is an expert in the field.

3.

Convey your brand story

A picture is worth a thousand words – your headshots can tell a compelling story. A professional photographer can help you to convey the values, culture and narrative of your business. Think of the feelings you want your clients to experience when doing business with your company. Your headshots should convey the type of experience your client will have when dealing with you. Are you fun and entertaining? Are you serious and contemplative? Is it important for you to show a mixture of both?

Whether you need to showcase the collaborative spirit of your team or exhibit a fun and carefree experience, your branding headshots contribute to the larger narrative or your brand.


Headshot and branding portrait of brunette wearing black leather jacket on light gray background in a relaxed pose in Dallas Texas

4.

Highlight individual expertise

This is particularly important for businesses with multiple team members. Individual branding headshots highlight the expertise and unique personalities within the organization. Clients aren’t just investing in a company, they are investing in you. They want to get a feel for who they will be dealing with when they do business with a company. What does your headshot say about you? Are you approachable? Do you appear competent? You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover but the truth is we all do. Competency can be conveyed in a single image! If you appear competent it will inspire trust in your potential clients.

Important reminders for your branding headshots photography session!

  • Plan ahead. Communicate exactly what type of branding headshots you need from your photographer.
  • Bring a few different outfits. For suggestions on wardrobe read our helpful blog article Dos and Don’ts for your headshot wardrobe – 10 tips. 
  • Consider hiring a headshot photographer who provides professional hair and makeup if applicable. Pro hair and makeup can make a big difference in the quality of your headshots. 
  • Don’t be afraid to remind your photographer if they forgot something!
  • Don’t forget to consult with your company for specific needs related to social media and website headshots. They may have certain requirements that you may be unaware of.
 
In conclusion, strong branding headshots are a valuable asset in telling the story of your business and brand. A good branding headshot should go beyond a mere picture. It should be a visual ambassador for you when people are making split second judgements and decisions online. You want  to convey the spirit of your business along with your commitment to professionalism. You want to build a culture of trust and connect with your clients. When you invest in high quality headshots it is an investment in success and the longevity of your brand and business. 
A Luxury mobile dog groomer Luxe Paws Mobile Pet Spa owner Rhea Vanderwerf pictured with her black Pomeranian posed on a salon chair while she prepares to groom him Dallas pet photographer Laura Levitan of Mod L Photography Captured this portrait
Why branding headshots are important graphic for pinterest by headshot photographer Mod L Photography of Dallas Texas

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35 Responses

  1. I need to replace all of the existing headshots on my website. This was extremely helpful! Now I can better plan with my photographers. Appreciate you for sharing your insights.

    1. I’m so glad it was helpful. We so often overlook the importance of headshots. I’m even reluctant to get in front of the camera :). But we have to make sure our audience has a chance to get to know us and this is one way to do that!

  2. Such an insightful post! Capturing the essence of your brand through compelling branding headshots is indeed a game-changer. The authenticity and story behind the visuals can create a powerful connection with your audience.

    1. I’m so glad you agree! Pictures can definitely convey meaning. It’s important to make sure your headshot says what you want it to 🙂

  3. These are amazing headshot photos. Your previous work probably? Having a professional photography session for your brand is definitely a good idea.

  4. This post was awesome, I’ve sat in on a lot of photoshoots of my daughter and her models for her business, but never really thought of it like this. It will think of it differently next time I sit in on one. Thanks for the great post and eye opener!!

    1. Thank you! I’m glad I could lend a new perspective to something you have a lot of experience with :). So cool that your daughter is involved with photoshoots and modeling!

  5. 100% YES! Love this. Brand photoshoots are a must. I had them done when I first opened my business and it was a BLAST! You’ve reminded me that it’s time to update them!

  6. I agree that it is important to do branding headshots for your business and website. It’s a great way for your clients to get to know you and check out your vibes and style. I love your tips.

  7. Thank you for an inspirational article. I always thought a website`s headshot was important but wasn’t sure why. I like that I can tell a whole story with my pictures on my blog. Definitely, I’ll pay more attention to headshots now.

  8. Headshots are a wonderful branding idea!! I think it boosts the professionalism of any company, website, or job to be able to related that thing to a specific face. Helps people remember! Great article!

  9. Having a branding headshot makes all the difference! Finding a photographer who can convey the essence of the brand in a visual form is game changing

  10. I just checked out the link you provided from MODL Photography discussing the importance of branding headshots, and as a fellow photographer I couldn’t agree more! Branding headshots are crucial for establishing a professional and cohesive image for individuals and businesses alike. They help create a strong first impression and convey your brand’s personality, values, and professionalism to your audience. Plus, they can enhance your online presence and make you stand out in a competitive market.

  11. Yes, this is so true! As someone in a PR and marketing firm, branding headshots can do wonders for our clients. It’s something they should all be investing in!

  12. Headshots are very important. There are plenty of ways to do this nowadays. As you mentioned, you are your brand, and your face needs to be front and center so that people know who they are dealing with. Otherwise, what are you hiding?

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