Photographer Brand Photography Session

By now you may be aware that Brand Photography is a growing niche in the photography realm. As a photographer, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of capturing the perfect shot for our clients. We spend so much time behind the lens that we often forget to step in front of it. But, as difficult as it may be to get our own photos taken, it’s essential for us to do so if we want to stand out in a sea of other photographers.

Being the face of our brand is crucial to building a successful photography business. It allows potential clients to put a face to the name and establish a personal connection with us. It also gives us the opportunity to showcase our personality and unique style, which can set us apart from the competition. Our beautiful photos are no longer the main selling point of our services. It’s out BRAND that will attract our ideal clients and get more bookings.

So, if you’re a photographer who hasn’t yet taken the plunge and had your own photos taken, here are a few reasons why you should:

1. Establish a Personal Connection with Clients

As mentioned earlier, being the face of your brand allows potential clients to establish a personal connection with you. People want to do business with people they know, like, and trust. By showcasing your face and personality on your website and social media channels, you’re giving clients the chance to get to know you before they even pick up the phone to call you.

2. Showcase Your Unique Style

As photographers, we all have our own unique style and approach to our craft. By putting ourselves in front of the camera, we have the opportunity to showcase that style and give potential clients a taste of what they can expect from us. Whether you’re a wedding photographer with a romantic, whimsical style or a commercial photographer with a clean, modern aesthetic, your personal brand should reflect that.

3. Stand Out from the Competition

Let’s face it, the photography industry is a crowded one. There are countless photographers out there all vying for the same clients. By being the face of your brand and showcasing your personality and style, you have the opportunity to stand out from the competition. Clients want to work with photographers who are not only talented but also personable and easy to work with. By putting yourself out there, you’re showing potential clients that you’re all of those things and more. I recently heard from a very prominant photographer that she tries to post of photo of her face at least every 3-5 posts on social media. Yikes! Where are you going to get those kind of photos of yourself if you’ve NEVER had photos of yourself taken??

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But, I hate having my picture taken!” Trust me, I get it. I’m a photographer, and I still dread having my photo taken. Ten years ago this was not something I ever had to worry about. But, it’s essential for us to step out of our comfort zones if we want to build a successful business.

So, how do you go about getting your own photos taken? Here are a few tips that I’ve gleaned over the years.

1. Hire a BRAND Photographer

Seriously. Take it from me and even yourself. Not all photographers can be or are ready to be “brand” photographers. I’ve gone to my fair share of headshot swaps with a lot of other very talented photographers. And while I appreciate the free photos and the pretty pictures that I get in return. They aren’t super useful for the business I’m trying to build. There’s a subtle shift in the way brand photographers take photos that goes beyond portraits, art, and lifestyle. It’s worth it to invest in the right photographer off the bat rather than trying it on the cheap. I mean, we say this to our clients ALL the time right?? Why not take our own advice.

2. Choose the Right Location

When it comes to taking your own photos, location is key. Consider what kind of photographer you are? Where do you shoot the most? If you’re a wedding photographer or family photographer and you’re always outside, it may not make much sense to have you in a studio and vice versa. Do you have a favorite location in Utah County for Photography that you could go to. A studio should reflect your brand style as well. If it’s filled with colorful walls or boring looking office furniture but it doesn’t relate to you or your style then steer clear.

3. Be Yourself

The most important thing when it comes to taking your own photos is to be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not or put on a persona for the camera. Clients want to work with photographers who are authentic and genuine, so let your personality shine through. Add some personal touches to your photos. What are some hobbies you could incorporate to show your clients more of who you are to make you more relatable? Do you like to hike in the mountains around Utah?

I think the biggest point I want to drive home is to really hire a professional for your Brand Photography photos. Go through the motions like you’re NOT a photographer so you can really have the best experience. And if you choose your photographer right, you could gain a little insight into how they run their business. Killing two birds with one stone.