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As a business owner in Wichita, KS, personal branding photography can help get you visible. It’s more than just an image of you smiling — it’s the embodiment of your brand’s story, values, and personality. While headshots have their place in professional profiles, personal branding photography goes beyond the basics to capture the essence of who you are as a leader, entrepreneur, and individual. In this blog post, I’ll explain the key differences between headshots and personal branding photography and why investing in personal branding photography is a game-changer for your business.
Sometimes, a few updated headshots are all you need. For example, if you’re an employee in an organization such as a law office, counseling center, or bank, a headshot is sufficient. Often, headshots are used on Staff or About pages of websites with a little paragraph about you and the service you provide. Headshots are also needed when you are featured in a publication or are presenting to a group. Every professional should have a current headshot for those instances. And trust me, they no longer need to be stiff and boring! I like to meet with all of my clients before I stick a camera in their face. A great headshot photographer will help you feel at ease, and bring out your best self.
In today’s digital landscape, standing out is crucial. When potential clients search for you online, they’re looking to connect with someone who feels approachable, relatable, and trustworthy. Today’s websites are yesterday’s brick and mortars.
Moreover, your social media is where you “date” your potential customers, and your website is where you “get married.” Personal branding photography allows you to showcase who you are and what you do. Done right, a personal branding photoshoot should bring a Return On Investment for your business.
In addition, there’s a ton of preparation that goes into a personal branding shoot. My clients begin with a questionnaire and a Zoom consultation where I get to know more about your brand and what you want to accomplish. In addition, we discuss colors, wardrobe, props, and shoot locations. These details are crucial to creating storytelling images that will attract your ideal clients.
Let’s look at Marcy Johnson’s recent branding shoot and see what we created. Marcy is the CEO at Prairie View Hospital in Newton, KS. She is launching a coaching business for high level women executives. Her guiding words for her shoot were: Professional, Industry Leader, Excellence. She also wanted to incorporate femininity and pink into her shoot, to show her kids (she’s the mother of 6) what is possible.
This image communicates elegance, sophistication, and shows the name of her coaching business. A full personal branding photoshoot should have a variety of photos that can be used on your website, and all over your social media channels. I love the use of the personalized “newspaper” to show off her coaching business. This would be an excellent “hero” image at the top of her website.
In this set, we have headshot images, looking away from the camera, a speaking image, and a playful and fun image. They all tell the story of a high level executive coach.
It’s also important to show you working with a “client” so that YOUR ideal clients can visualize themselves working with you. These types of images have so much more power than stock photos on your website.
The images above definitely say, Industry Leader, Excellence, and Professional, don’t you agree? They are unique, and position her as an expert in her field.
Above, these images convey a highly competent professional executive. We incorporated her favorite leadership books and a picture of her family. As you can see, now Marcy has a bank of images she can use on her website that will tell the story of what it is like to work with her. In addition, she has amazing images to use on social media and Linked In, that will attract her ideal clients.
When it comes to personal branding, choosing the right photographer is key. You want someone who takes the time to understand your vision, your business, and the unique aspects of your personality that you want to showcase. As a personal branding photographer in Wichita, KS, I take the time to get to know your brand. My process involves a consultation, questionnaire, free digital What to Wear Guide, as well as meeting with a professional stylist to help you look your best. I don’t just show up at a coffee shop and take your photos with you and a laptop. Rather, I get to know your brand, and create images that capture the essence of who you are and present it in a way that aligns with your brand and business goals.
By investing in a personal branding session, you’re not just getting photos—you’re getting a powerful tool that will help you connect with your audience, elevate your brand, and grow your business. Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to refresh your image, personal branding photography is an essential part of your marketing strategy.
If you’re a business owner in Wichita, KS, and you’re serious about taking your brand to the next level, it’s time to invest in personal branding photography. Headshots have their place, but personal branding photos tell your story, build connections, and help you stand out in a crowded market. Don’t settle for just any image—choose one that truly represents who you are and what your business stands for.
Ready to elevate your brand? Let’s create something incredible together. Contact me today and let’s create the shoot of your dreams!