When you’re starting a business, one of the most important things you’ll need to do is create a brand for yourself. This includes developing a logo, choosing colors, and creating a style guide. But one aspect that’s often overlooked is the importance of branding portraits. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what branding pictures are and why they’re important. We’ll also give you some tips on how to plan your own branding photo shoot!
Keep in mind, branding portraits aren’t just for new businesses. Every business can benefit from fresh headshots and branding portraits from time to time. Teams grow and your business evolves – so should your branding!
Think about it this way:
Your brand is like your fingerprint. Your brand is unique and should be reflected in every aspect of your business. Your logo, website, business cards, social media, and headshots all provide first impressions to potential clients and industry professionals.
Branding portraits are a great way to show who you are and what makes your business stand out from the competition.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE BRANDING PORTRAITS?
They’re images that capture the essence of your brand. These portraits can be used for headshots, but they also capture your products and services. The key is ensuring they represent who you are and what you do. They should be professional and polished, but they should also reflect your unique personality. Your branding portraits can be used for your website, social media, marketing materials, and more.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR YOUR BRANDING PORTRAITS
As you prepare for your branding portrait session, it’s important to think about how you want these images to represent both you and your brand. Each element of your shoot—from wardrobe to location—plays a role in telling your visual story.
Here are a few key factors to consider:
How your images will be used
Think beyond headshots. Will these images be featured on your website, service pages, social media, or marketing materials? You may need a portrait with negative space for text overlays, or a variety of orientations for different platforms.Your outfits
Choose clothing that reflects your brand’s personality and makes you feel confident and at ease. Stick to colors and styles that align with your message and professional identity.The location
Our West St. Paul studio offers a range of versatile backdrops. You can also consider on-location shoots—whether it’s your workspace, a favorite coffee shop, or an outdoor setting that fits your brand vibe.Posing and expression
While your photographer will guide you with natural, flattering poses, it helps to come in with a vision. Consider the kinds of expressions and poses that will suit different uses—such as promotional materials, blog features, or workshop ads—and share those ideas during planning.Props
Personalize your session with props that speak to your profession or personality. Think tools of your trade, branded items, or elements that reflect your workflow. A graphic designer might bring a laptop and sketchbook, while a medical professional could include a stethoscope and white coat for context.
At Block Portrait Studios, we help you refine your visual style to clearly communicate the message you want your brand to send. Before your session, our expert team will guide you through outfit planning and creative direction to ensure your branding portraits feel authentic, professional, and uniquely you — designed to attract the clients you want most.
At Block Portrait Studios, we’ll craft a personalized portrait experience that reflects the heart of your brand. From the very first consultation to the final image delivery, our process is designed to bring clarity, confidence, and creativity to every step.
Your portrait journey begins with a Discovery Call, where we take the time to understand your brand, goals, and how you plan to use your images.
Prior to your session, we’ll also discuss everything from wardrobe and location to visual style and messaging, so your session feels intentional and aligned with your business.
No matter your industry, we’ll help you create portraits that connect with the right audience and position you as a professional worth remembering.
Let's begin your portrait experience!
Let’s create branding portraits that do more than look good; let’s create images that work for your business.
