5 Myths about Branding Photography Shoots

Branding Photography is one of the most beneficial investments for a professional to form a genuine connection with their audience.

Throughout my 20+ years of experience as a professional photographer, I’ve heard all sorts of weird and wonderful theories about Branding Photography. What strikes me is that some are so misguided that they are preventing bright, talented artists and leaders from showcasing themselves and their craft in the best possible light.

Everyone deserves to communicate their gifts to the world, which is why I shall address some of these myths about Branding Photography.

Here are the top 5 misconceptions about Branding Photography:

Myth 1: I have some headshots already – these can totally work.

The key point here is that headshots and branding photography serve two completely different purposes.

Headshots showcase your face and a hint of your personality. They are typically simpler in composition and intend to introduce you to your ideal audience and show what you physically look like. Think of it like ‘putting a face to a name’.

Branding Photography is much more sophisticated. It tells the story behind the face. It’s not just who you are, but why and how you are of value. These are images that visually showcase you as the brand. They position you as an expert in your field. They tell the story of your work, your art, and even your influence in your community.

Yes, you can absolutely use your lovely headshots on your website. However, they only do one part of the job of selling you and your brand. Branding photography gives you the full, 360-degree service by communicating your personality, values, and story, fostering an emotional connection with your audience and, ultimately helping you stand out from the crowd.

Myth 2: Branding photography is only for big companies

This is a myth steeped in the ‘old school’ definition of what a brand represents.

For a long while, a “brand” was broadly considered to be either a company – for example, Ford – or a product manufactured by a company – e.g a Ford Mustang. Furthermore, Branding Photography was limited to images of the product alone, and perhaps featuring a few people engaging with it (more on this later).

Nowadays, a brand is NOT limited to businesses or companies with a logo, tagline and product lines.

There is a third definition – a personal brand.

Simply put, YOU are your brand. And your brand is a beautiful, multi-layered combination of your individuality, your personality, your craft, your values, your story and your aspirations.

And the most effective way to market your personal brand is via a sophisticated suite of customized branded photographs of yourself, for your audience to engage with and enjoy.

What’s more, this myth suggests that branding photography is only necessary for large corporations with extensive marketing budgets. This cannot be further from the truth. Branding photography benefits professionals at any stage of their journey, whether they are established or just starting out.

This brings me to…

Myth 3: I need to spend lots of money on a Branding Photography shoot

A Branding Photography session does not need to break the bank. Yes, it is important to invest in an experienced Branding Photographer so you receive the level of attention, quality images and service you deserve. Yet you don’t always need multiple locations and with proper planning, a select number of perfect outfits is better than 10 mediocre outfits. The right branding photographer will take care of most of these details through detailed consultations.

Find out how I conduct my Branding Photography Services for my clients.

Myth 4: Any professional photographer can handle branding photography:

This happens to us photographers all time! People see or hear the word ‘photographer’ and think that we can shoot any and every occasion out there. Just because I am an expert with a camera does not mean I am the best photographer to capture your wedding or birthday party.

Like many professions, there are specialties within the field of Photography. Branding photography is one such specialty. It requires a specific and deep understanding of your identity, and what you wish to represent. It necessitates a specific skill set. It involves capturing visuals that align with your values and resonate with your target audience.

True, most professional photographers have some technical skills in common. This is where the similarities end. It’s important to find a photographer who specializes in branding photography and can effectively translate your brand into compelling visuals that attract and keep your audiences’ attention for the right reasons.

When making your selection, make sure you ask to see branding photographing case studies in their portfolio.

Myth 5: Branding photography is all about product shots. If I don’t make a physical product, then Branding Photography isn’t for me.

This cannot be further from the truth!

As mentioned in point 2, Branding Photography is no longer only for businesses that produce physical objects. In fact, you don’t even need to create or sell a tangible item.

Branding photography is the art of presenting your unique qualities, your mission and your role in the community. Whether that’s as a sculptor or painter, or as a dancer or actor – what you produce is not the sole objective. What is the key focus here is that you are the subject for the world to see. You are forming the connection with your audience, through your story and your individuality.

To sum up…

Branding photography is an immensely powerful tool for communicating your story and engaging with your audience. It is one of the best investments you can make in yourself and your craft. With the right photographer – one who knows how to capture your individuality, your charisma and your values – Branding Photography can elevate your brand to a whole new level and help you truly stand out from the crowd.

Are you ready to take your website and social platforms to the next level? Drop me a line and let’s connect!

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