Let’s get one thing straight: not all photos of you are created equal. In a world where your online presence can make or break a first impression, knowing the difference between a headshot and branding photography isn’t just a cute detail—it’s a game-changer. So, let’s break it down. Which one do you actually need?
What Is a Headshot?
Think of a headshot as the LinkedIn of photography: clean, professional, and straight to the point. A headshot says, “Hey, I exist. I’m competent. Hire me.” It’s usually a tightly cropped image of your face, maybe a shoulder or two if you’re feeling spicy, set against a simple background.
Headshots are great if you need:
- A profile photo for LinkedIn, Zoom, or your company’s “About Us” page.
- A picture that says, “I’m professional, but I might also smile at you in the hallway.”
- To check off the “upload a photo” box on your resume or portfolio.
Headshots are the teaser—they’re great, but they’re not the whole story...
What Is Branding Photography?
If a headshot is the LinkedIn vibe, branding photography is your personal Instagram feed coming to life. It’s a series of images that tell your story, showcase your personality, and give people a reason to connect with you before they even meet you.
Branding photos say, “This is who I am, this is what I do, and this is why I’m the one you’ve been looking for.” They go beyond your face to include your workspace, tools, products, and, most importantly, your vibe.
Branding photography is perfect for:
- Entrepreneurs who need to build a personal connection with their audience.
- Creatives, freelancers, and small business owners ready to show off their passion.
- Anyone ready to stand out from the sea of corporate backdrops and uniformity.
How to Choose: Headshot or Branding?
You need a headshot if...
- Your boss just emailed asking for a photo ASAP, and all you’ve got is a grainy selfie from 2016.
- You’re applying for a job or updating your professional profiles.
- You want a quick, polished image that screams, “I’m serious, but not too serious.”
You need branding photography if...
- You’re running a business, and your audience needs to see the human behind the brand.
- You want to attract clients who feel like they already know you before you’ve even spoken.
- Your social media feed looks like a stock photo catalog, and you’re ready to change that.
Can You Have Both?
Of course! Think of it like this: your headshot is the handshake, but your branding photos are the full conversation. Together, they create a cohesive, authentic representation of you that works across platforms.
Keeping It Real
I’m not here to tell you that you need anything, but let’s be honest: you’re here because you know your current photo situation isn’t cutting it. Whether you just need a sharp headshot or you’re ready to dive into a full branding session, I’m here to help you show the world exactly who you are.
Let’s make some magic. Contact me today, and we’ll figure out exactly what kind of photography fits your needs—and your vibe.