What is Personal Branding Photography?
We’re living in a time where more and more people are stepping away from the traditional 9-5 office grind, choosing instead to follow their passions and turn their dreams into reality. For many, this means starting a small business and carving out their own path.
In the UK alone, there are an incredible 5.6 million small businesses*. But one of the biggest challenges for any small business owner is finding a way to stand out in a crowded and noisy market.
You’ve probably heard the saying, “people buy from people”—and it couldn’t be more true. Today’s customers want to connect with and trust the people they’re buying from, which is why the impersonal, faceless approach of big corporations often falls short.
As small business owners, the key to thriving is learning how to connect with our ideal clients and stand out authentically—showcasing who we are and what our brand is all about.
What is Personal Branding Photography?
Let’s be honest: if you’re a creative or have your own business, your art isn’t just what you make—it’s who you are. And personal branding photography is all about capturing that essence. It’s not about stiff poses or corporate headshots; it’s about telling your story through natural, relaxed images that show your craft, your space, and the little details that make your work so uniquely you.
Think of personal branding photography as a visual love letter to your art and the process behind it.
It’s about:
Who you are: Your personality, your quirks, and what makes you tick.
What you create: The one-of-a-kind magic you bring to life.
How you create: The tools, textures, and little moments that show your process.
Why Is Personal Branding Photography Important?
We live in a visual world. A world where people want to connect not just with your art but with you.
Here’s why personal branding photography matters:
Show Your Process
People love to see what goes into your work. Show them the messy middle, the tools you use, and the passion that brings your pieces to life.Build Connections
Your audience doesn’t just want to buy art—they want to feel connected to the person behind it. Personal branding photography makes your story relatable and real.Elevate Your Online Presence
Let’s face it—scroll-stopping photos are the key to standing out. Whether it’s for Instagram, Etsy, or your website, professional images make you and your work shine.Add Versatility
From social posts to marketing campaigns, these photos are so versatile. They’re like having a treasure chest of content ready to go.
What Does a Branding Photoshoot Look Like?
For artists and makers, a personal branding session is all about capturing the magic of your world. Here’s just a few ideas of what this could look like:
Your Workspace: The heart of your creative process. Whether it’s a studio, a kitchen table, or a shed at the bottom of your garden, it’s where the magic happens.
In-Action Shots: You, mid-flow—hands covered in paint, thread, or clay, doing what you love most.
Finished Work: Close-ups that celebrate the intricate details of your creations.
Natural Portraits: Relaxed, creative, honest photos of you being you.
How to Prepare for Your Shoot
Don’t worry—you don’t need to have everything perfect. In fact, the imperfections are often what make the best photos! Here’s how to prepare:
Be Yourself: Think about what makes you, you. Is it your favorite overalls, your lucky mug, or the way your workspace always has a creative chaos vibe? Let’s capture that!
Gather Your Tools: Bring along the materials, tools, and even the works-in-progress that tell your story.
Tidy Up—A Bit: Your space doesn’t need to be spotless, but a little order helps. We’ll embrace the authentic, not the staged.
Dream Big: If there’s a vision you have in mind, share it! This is your story, after all.
Let’s Tell Your Story
If you’re a maker or business owner your work, your art deserves to be celebrated—and so do you. Personal branding photography helps you showcase your creativity, connect with your audience, and share the process behind your beautiful work.
Ready to tell your story? Let’s capture the heart of your craft together.
Drop me a message if you’d like to chat about creating images that are as unique as you and your art!
*There were 5.6 million small businesses at the start of 2023.(with 0 to 49 employees)