Hey friends! It’s Missy, your extroverted (sometimes introverted) brand photographer here to clear up a common question:What’s the difference between brand shots and headshots?
While both types of photography have their place, they serve very different purposes. So, let’s dive into the key differences and help you figure out which one is right for you and your business!
Headshots: Your Professional Introduction
Headshots are like your professional calling card. They’re simple, polished, and straight to the point. Typically, they’re done in a studio or with a clean, neutral background, and the focus is entirely on you. Whether you’re looking to update your LinkedIn profile, add your photo to a company directory, or make a strong impression in the corporate world, headshots do the job perfectly.
Headshots are perfect for:
LinkedIn profiles
Resumés
Corporate websites
Business cards
Headshots show you’re professional and ready for business. They’re classic and timeless, giving people a clear idea of who they’ll be working with. But while headshots make a strong introduction, I do not offer them as a service, as that’s just the beginning of what I can do for you.
Brand Shots: Your Story, Your Vibe, Your Brand
Now, if headshots are the professional handshake, brand photography is the warm conversation over coffee that gives people a peek into who you really are—it's the candid moments where your passion shines through, the laughter, the genuine expressions, and the subtle nuances that tell your story without you even having to say a word. It’s like inviting your audience into your favorite cozy café, where they not only get to see the polished side of your brand but also the heart and soul behind it. It’s the unfiltered you, the part of your business that’s driven by purpose, late-night brainstorming sessions, the songs playing on your speaker and the unwavering commitment to what you believe in.
With brand photography, your audience doesn’t just see a product or service—they see the late nights, the early mornings, the creative bursts of energy, and the heartfelt dedication that makes your brand stand out. It’s an experience, a story unfolding in every shot, and it gives people a reason to trust, connect, and engage on a deeper level. This type of visual storytelling creates a magnetic pull, drawing people in like an intimate chat with an old friend, leaving them inspired and eager to be part of your journey.
With brand photography, we create images that not only show you, but also the full experience of working with you. Whether you’re connecting with clients, creating products, or simply enjoying a moment of creativity, these images bring your brand to life. It’s all about showcasing how you can help solve a problem for your ideal client.
Brand photography is perfect for:
Social media content (don't play small, SHOW UP!)
Your website (because your brand deserves more than a standard headshot)
Marketing materials (show off what your brand is all about)
Telling your brand’s story (visually communicating your mission and vibe)
What’s the Real Difference?
Here’s where things get exciting:
Headshots: Clean, professional, quick.
Brand shots: Dynamic, creative, and all about your brand experience
Headshots serve a very specific need—they’re about representing you in a professional setting. But if you want to go deeper, to connect with your audience on a personal level and show them the real you, brand photography is the way to go.
Why I Love Brand Shoots
Don’t get me wrong—headshots are awesome for when you need a professional, go-to photo. That is all some people need! I get it!! But brand shoots? They’re where the magic really happens. As someone who loves connecting with people (even when my introverted side needs a recharge), brand photography allows me to capture you in action—whether it’s the passion you have for your work or the cozy moments that reflect the heart of your business.
With brand photography, I get to help you show the world your story—not just your face. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or leader, we’ll create images that highlight not only what you do, but why you do it.
Which One’s for You?
If you’re just looking for a professional portrait for LinkedIn or your resumé, a classic headshot is perfect and I have some great photographers to send you too! But if you want to go beyond the basics and create a visual story that represents your brand, your values, and the full experience of working with you, it’s time for brand photography.
Still not sure which option works best for you? Let’s chat! I’m here to guide you and help you, drink coffee with you...;) decide which approach will bring out the best in your business. Let’s start capturing your story!
Final Thoughts
While headshots serve a key role in your professional life, brand photography is where we really get to show your audience what sets you apart. Brand photos have a way of letting you see yourself through a completely different lens—literally and figuratively. It’s one thing to believe in your work, but when you see yourself captured in a way that reflects your professionalism, creativity, and the energy you pour into your business, it transforms how you view yourself. Suddenly, you’re not just running a business; you’re the face of a brand, and that shift in perspective is empowering. Brand photography gives you the confidence to step into your role as a leader, a visionary, and an expert in your field. Seeing yourself in these beautifully curated images, where your passion and purpose are on full display, allows you to take yourself more seriously. You start to own your space, recognizing the value you bring to the table, and this confidence radiates outward, influencing how others see and connect with you. It’s not just a boost for your business—it’s a boost for you as the heart behind the brand.
I am currently booked through 2024, and would love to get you on my 2025 schedule! I only take on two brands per month, so dates are more limited! First step, let's set up a discovery call!
xoxo, Missy
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