One of the perks of owning our own business is the ability to be yourself. Your personal branding photos shouldn’t look like stock photos. They should look like, well, you! When people purchase from a small business, they want to see the face behind the product or service. YOU are what makes your business one of a kind. So, it’s essential that your branding photos communicate your unique personality. Here are 5 tips on how to show off your personality in your branding photos:

Pick a location that fits

Location. Location. Location. When planning out your branding photo shoot, choose locations that clearly communicate what you do to your potential customers. The location (or locations) you choose should match the purpose and the aesthetic of your business. For example, let’s say you’re a business or lifestyle coach. You would want to choose a location that expresses the type of energy you bring to the table. For an energizing and active feel, you could go with an urban setting. For a laid-back feel, a calmer space, like a home office, would be more appropriate. If you need help choosing a location, check out my blog post highlighting some of my favorite rental studios in the Detroit area.

Use props that are unique to your personality

Props are great tools to use in branding photoshoots. Not only do they help tell your story, but they give you something to do, which will help you feel a little more at ease during your photo session. Your branding photo session props can be simple items that you use every day, like your laptop, a notebook, your camera, or your phone. You can also use items that express who you are outside of work, like your favorite coffee mug, favorite dessert, fresh flowers, or even your pet! The purpose of props is to convey not only your brand, but your personality as well, so have fun with it! 

Choose outfits that feel like you

Remember, branding photos are different from traditional headshots. A lot of clients assume that their branding photo outfits need to be super professional, but if a suit isn’t your style, don’t wear one! Again, your branding photos should show off YOUR personality, so if you’re more of a jeans and t-shirt kind of person, it’s okay to choose outfits that are more casual. You should feel comfortable and 100% yourself during your branding photo session. 

Be prepared and have fun with your poses

I get it, being in front of a camera can be super intimidating. Personally, I feel a little more comfortable in new situations when I’m well prepared. Before your session, write down some words that describe your personality and your brand. Then, search Google or Pinterest for poses that match those specific words. For example, if you describe yourself as a bubbly person, your poses will involve a lot of smiling, laughing, and leaning towards the camera to communicate that you’re fun and approachable. Practice your poses in the mirror so when it’s time for your session you feel comfortable and well prepared. 

Show what it’s like behind the scenes 

What does your workspace look like? What is your process? Social media followers and potential clients LOVE to see behind-the-scenes images. These types of branding photos are meant to show customers what it’s like to be you. It gives them a little sneak peek into your business process and helps to further express to them why you do what you do. These photos could be of you working at your desk or curled up on the couch with your laptop. If you have more of a face-to-face role, like a fitness instructor or a business coach, organize a photoshoot that will capture a typical working day for you and your business. 

If you take anything away from this article, let it be this: Your branding photos should always represent your personality. Yes, it’s important to portray yourself as knowledgeable and professional, but above all, your branding photos should show your potential customers who you are as a person and business owner.

Ready to schedule your branding photo session? I promise I will make it as painless as possible. Connect with me and I’ll help you brainstorm ways to show off your unique personality.   

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