Arizona Brand Photographer: Why Personal Branding is Important
What is personal branding photography?
Personal branding photography is photography for your brand that focuses on your personality.
There are many types of branding photos styles: Professional headshots, Lifestyle headshots, behind-the-scenes, client interaction, detail shots, interiors and exteriors, logo and branding, products, and any services your label offers that can be implemented in personal branding photography.
Why does personal branding matter?
Your personal brand is what sets you apart from the crowd, it’s what makes you unique and interesting. Your personal brand is the experience only you can create for your clients and followers. It is what catches their attention when they are scrolling through social media or your website and what makes them stop when they pause in front of your shop.
Your images are the first impression you make on your clients, they should be remarkable and convey the message you want your clients to hear when they think of your brand.
They should also be on-brand. They should match the mood and feeling of your business as well as the website and graphic design. Visual communication is essential; it helps consumers or clients create an emotional connection with the service offered by your business. Understanding a brand's unique identity makes it easier for clients and potential clients to understand and relate to the brand.
Is Personal Brand Photography right for me?
YES! Whether you are a real estate agent looking for a more stylized image to set you apart or a new business that needs to build an online presence, or an author looking to decorate her website and book jackets, personal branding photography is right for you.
You can transform your business and elevate your brand when you understand the power your image brings to your brand. Clients, fans, and followers… all want to see and get to know the person behind the message.
The more honest and genuine the connection in your images, the better your audience will respond. Let this be your time to shine!
“OK, but HOW does it benefit me?”
I’ll share with you 5 ways that having your own personal cohesive brand can be beneficial for you. Ready…let’s go!
First impressions count. Nothing is more important than a first impression. Your sense of competence, professionalism and character is a large part of a potential client’s decision to do business with you. Your branding photos tell your brand story the way YOU want it to tell it.
Show your personality. Your professional branding images showcase your unique personality. You can use them in a variety of ways throughout your website, social media and marketing efforts.
Build trust and credibility. By showing your audience your brand story and what makes you unique, they will feel like they know and trust you.
Create a connection with your clients. These images are a way to connect with your audience, show your personality and stand out from your competition. It allows you to create an experience that encourages your followers to engage with you. They give you a chance to BE memorable!
More than just a headshot. Your personal brand images go beyond an ordinary headshot. They help to visually show your creative process, your workspace and what it would be like to work with you.
The images you see here in this post are of local author GF Miller. She reached out to me about doing some author shots for her book jackets and to also use on her website and socials. We chatted about all the things: what genre of books she wrote (YA fiction), did she want something more traditional or maybe a little bit quirky. I kid you not, she not only said quirky and fun but said “maybe something unexpected, like setting up a writing desk in the middle of the sidewalk.” YESSSSS!! We talked about style and what to wear, I mean check out that amazing and colorful blue leather jacket. Yes, colors, props, location, even facial expressions are all part of a branding session. Working with her was an absolute blast and…shout out to Sweetz Brew, in Gilbert, for allowing us to take photos in their shop. Not only the best cold brew coffee in the East Valley but a colorful, fun, and unique place to be…perfect for Mrs. Miller.
Do you have a brand you’re trying to build with your product or service? Have you been taking phone photos and they’re just not cutting it anymore? Are you looking to set yourself apart and truly emerge as a contender in your market? Then maybe it’s time to book your own personal branding photoshoot. If you’re ready, then I am too! Let’s work together to tell YOUR story.
Arizona Brand Photographer | Shannon Ly Photography
Click here to see more images from this brand photo shoot with GF Miller.
