What to Consider when Choosing a Personal Branding Photographer

Chances are you landed on this page, because you’re a business owner, side hustler, creative or entrepreneur who is ready to bring your business to the next level. Awesome! I’m so excited for you.
I’ve put together a list of things to help you when you’re choosing a photographer to capture the unique essence of your brand.
But, first a little word of encouragement:
People connect with people. So believe me when I say, your audience wants to see you. The authentic person behind your brand. People are invested in honest stories. Showing personality and sharing your values will draw your tribe in.
That said, investing in professional branding photography will give you so much more than just a headshot of yourself.
Good personal branding photography should give you a strong library of brand images that visually tell your story, showcase not only your products and services, but also your personality and what it’s like to work with you. This will build deeper trust and connection with your audience and attract the right clients for you.
Ok, let’s get into it!
5 Things to Look for in a Personal Branding Photographer for Your Creative Business:
Personality.
This might feel like an obvious one, but find a photographer that you “click” with. Have a chat with the photographer on social media or book a consultation call, to get a feel for them and how they work. Do they seem invested in their clients? Your personal branding photographer should make you feel relaxed and comfortable. I can not overstate the difference trust will make for the whole experience and end product.
Portfolio.
There are many excellent photographers around, but not all of them will have a style of photography that resonates with you. Their images should make you feel something. Browse different photographer’s portfolios and social media feeds. Do you love their work and aesthetics? Are they good at visual storytelling? Does their style of photography complement your brand? For example, bright, airy lifestyle photography will convey something different than a moody, natural documentary style.
Testimonials.
Read client testimonials – what are people saying about their experience with the photographer? Usually you’ll be able to see a pattern in the testimonials, what words keep coming up? Reviews will give you a good idea of what to expect from working with the photographer.
Specialization.
Find a photographer who specializes in personal branding. Do they work with big companies, creatives or solopreneurs? Awesome family or wedding photographers might not make for awesome personal branding photographers. Find someone with the right experience and values that fit your business.
Process.
There’s a lot more elements that go into a successful personal brand photoshoot than you might first think. I strongly believe that a successful personal branding photography session starts loong before you show up at the photoshoot. Find out about the photographer’s process. What’s included in the package price? Do they offer brand consultation, style and wardrobe advice, professional hair & makeup? What about delivery time?
Bonus! Write down your goals.
What goals do you have for your business? It’s the personal branding photographer’s job to help uncover what visual material you need to bring your business to the next level, but that will be so much easier if you know what it is you want to achieve in your business. Write down your dreams and goals for the upcoming year and you and your photographer can work backwards from there to create images that you truly need and that will support you in reaching your goals!
Good luck!
Ready to bring more joy, clarity and consistency to the digital footprint of your business? I’d love to chat! Send me a DM on instagram or get in touch to learn more about my personal branding sessions!
/ Emmi xo