When you’re a professional, your photographs need to do more than show people what you look like. They need to give potential clients a sense of who you are and what it might feel like to work with you.
That was an important part of the goal when I photographed Ryan Namba, a mortgage broker, for his personal branding.
Ryan wanted photographs that felt professional, but he also wanted something else to come through: his kindness.
That meant we needed more than a traditional headshot.
Creating professional branding photos that still feel approachable
For a professional such as a mortgage broker, trust matters. A prospective client may be making an important financial decision, and the person they're working with needs to feel knowledgeable and professional while still being someone they can connect with.
We approached Ryan's session with that balance in mind.
Part of the session took place in the studio, using mostly natural light. There was a large open window that created a strong, interesting contrast in the light.
It was also extremely hot.
So we started without the jacket, taking advantage of the more intense natural light. Later, when Ryan put the jacket on, we changed the lighting approach and used less of that intense light.
Those kinds of adjustments are part of what makes a branding session different from simply showing up and taking a headshot. The goal isn't just to create one good photograph. It's to create a collection of images that give a professional different ways to present themselves.
Giving a personal brand more than one look
Ryan brought several business-casual options, including a jacket. We also wanted photographs that felt a little less formal.
We used a desk and had Ryan bring his computer, creating photographs connected to the work he actually does.
Then we took the session outside.
The outdoor photographs gave us another side of Ryan. The jeans and shirt, along with his work bag, created a more relaxed professional look.
We also photographed at a local train station in Boise, using several different areas and a couple of different outfits.
Why personal branding photography matters for professionals
Branding photography isn't only for mortgage brokers.
The same approach can work for real estate professionals, attorneys, teachers, consultants, entrepreneurs, and small-business owners.
The important question is not simply, "What should my headshot look like?"
A better question is:
"What do I want people to understand about me before they ever meet me?"
For Ryan, kindness was an important part of the answer.
For another professional, it might be confidence, expertise, approachability, creativity, or a combination of those qualities.
The photographs should support that message.
And that's why I like creating a variety of images during a branding session. Different locations, clothing choices, lighting, and activities can communicate different sides of the same person while still creating a consistent professional brand.
Branding photography for professionals in Sussex, New Jersey
Although Ryan's session took place in Boise, Idaho, the same kind of branding photography for professionals is something I enjoy creating for professionals and business owners closer to home in Sussex, New Jersey.
If you're a mortgage broker, real estate professional, attorney, teacher, small-business owner, or another professional who needs photographs that feel polished without feeling stiff, a branding session can give you much more to work with than a single headshot.
Your photographs are often one of the first ways potential clients encounter you.
Let's make sure they say something meaningful.
If you're ready for professional branding photography in Sussex, New Jersey, get in touch to talk about your session.