Personal Branding Photoshoot Myths

Personal branding photographs that make people drool aren't as far out of reach as you imagine. Your thoughts speak for themselves; therefore, you don't need a picture of yourself on your website or believe you can attract the customers of your dreams with a headshot taken in 2008 when you worked at your corporate job. You're mistaken.

A face-to-face session is the best way for potential customers to get to know, like, and trust you. As a personal branding photographer, I'm here to dispel the most common misconceptions I've encountered. Let me give you an example:

You Must Possess Photogenic Qualities

In the world of personal branding photography, this must be the most common misconception. While some individuals are born with the ability to be photographed well, most of the time, those who seem to be perfect models in branding images have been persuaded to feel that way by the photographer. Brand photography is all about making you feel and look your best. I promise, pinky swear.

I love to get to know my clients and help them relax throughout our photo session. Most people are worried about being in front of the camera, no matter how many times they've done it. Even the most uncomfortable among us may discover our inner RAWR with a few excellent pointers and a few chuckles.

You'll need to shell out a lot of cash.

To have the finest photoshoot possible, you don't need to shell out thousands of dollars to find the right venue, invest in expensive clothing, or hire an entourage to keep you looking your best all day—not to mention the cost of hiring a professional photographer.

Most of your costs should go into hiring a good photographer (not simply your cousin's buddy who "does photographs on the side"). You may be in the "perfect" location, and you don't even have to go to Paris to find it! You do not need to wear your best Prada and Louboutins to look chic. Your collar will never be out of position, even if there are five people constantly following you around.

Most of the specifics will be taken care of by your photographer. Pamper yourself with a manicure and pedicure. Make an appointment with a stylist and a cosmetics artist (this might be included). If you enjoy the way you appear now, consider getting a spray tan. Clothing shouldn't be prohibitively expensive. If you don't reveal your brand, no one will know. Clothes that are less costly in real life don't appear any worse than those.

There is no need to be concerned about the location. Your photographer can help you get the appearance you want. Possibly, they already know where they want to go. Through the lens, even the most unassuming locations may provide stunning results. Let go of that. You won't take your pictures in Italy. It isn't necessary to.

There is no way you can be the face of your brand if you're too old, shy, fat, boring, or weird. 

Is there anything left to accomplish? Isn't it depressing how dull your life seems when you look at the feed on Instagram? Darling, everyone's life is full of humdrum, pajama-clad moments. Each of us has moments that have the potential to be lovely if we allow them to.

You've got a fire inside of you. It's all there for the taking; you only need the right authorization. Are you a fan of a certain subject or hobby? What aspects of your line of work enrage you the most? What are you attempting to accomplish with your efforts? If you can tap into that energy, you'll be just as engaging as the people you see on Instagram.

Personal branding is best suited for those who like being the center of attention.

 You may be an introvert if you prefer to spend Friday nights curled up with a good book, reading your favorite blogs, working on your brand, or going out with a few girlfriends for wine and tapas to catch up. If this describes your Friday night routine, it's safe to assume you're a wallflower. You may be astonished to realize how similar I am to you. And a large proportion of my customers are as well.

If you don't show your face to prospective customers, they won't get to know you as a person. Photos are processed 60,000 times quicker than words by the average human being. Every day over the last 60,000 years! They'll be able to relate to your remarks a lot more if they know who's speaking for you. Your friends and family are enthusiastic about seeing you in public. As a result, it's time to emerge from the shadows. Let your light shine.

A Personal Brand Isn't Necessary for Product-Based Businesses. 

“I don't want to distract from the quality of my products by putting my face on them." Cringe-worthy: it is something I hear a lot. Brands don't have a human face. They engage in social exchange. Even the most automated companies are led by individuals who make daily choices that impact consumers. Customers will have greater faith in your items if you put yourself in their shoes and get to know them.