Are you a business owner or entrepreneur looking to update your online presence? One important aspect of your online image is the photos you use on your website and social media profiles.

But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of photo shoot is right for you.

In this blog post, we will be discussing the difference between headshots and branding photo sessions, so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your needs.

What is a headshot?

Headshots are traditionally thought of as photos of an individual’s face, often used for acting or modeling portfolios. These photos are usually taken from the shoulders up and are focused on the person’s face and expression.

In a business context, headshots are often used on websites, social media profiles, and even on business cards to provide a professional and personal touch to your online presence.

What is branding?

On the other hand, branding photo sessions are a type of photo shoot that focuses on the overall aesthetic and visual identity of your brand. These photos are used to create a cohesive look and feel for your brand across all of your online platforms, and can include images of your products, your workspace, and even candid shots of you and your team in action. Branding photo sessions are an excellent way to showcase the unique personality and values of your business to potential customers and clients.

Branding can be applied to products, services, individuals, organizations, events, and places. The process of creating a brand typically includes developing a brand strategy, identity system, and brand guidelines.

Headshots vs. Branding. Which one is right for you?

Overall, the main difference between headshots and branding photo sessions is their focus and intended use.

While headshots are focused on the individual and their expression, branding photo sessions are focused on the overall aesthetic and visual identity of your brand.

Both are important for creating a professional and engaging online presence, so it’s worth considering investing in both.

What location is best?

The location of a photo shoot is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly affect the final look and feel of the photos. In general, branding photo sessions may take place at a variety of locations depending on the specific needs and goals of the shoot.

These locations could include your business’s workspace, a photogenic outdoor location that reflects your brand’s aesthetic, or even a studio setting.

The main goal of a branding photo shoot is to capture the essence and personality of your brand, so the location should be chosen with that in mind.

On the other hand, headshot photo sessions are typically taken in a studio setting. This allows the photographer to control the lighting and background, ensuring that the focus is solely on the person’s face and expression.

Some photographers may also offer outdoor headshot sessions, which can be a great option for adding variety to your headshots.

Ultimately, the location of a headshot photo session should be chosen based on the look and feel that you want to achieve for your photos.

Choosing the right location for your photo shoot can make a big difference in the final look and feel of your photos.

If you choose Erin Laye Photography As your photographer, I will help you identify the perfect location for your headshot or branding photo session.

Let’s discuss your vision and goals for the shoot, and together we can find a location that will showcase you and your brand in the best possible light.

Contact me today to get started!

How long does it take?

The duration of a photo shoot can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of shoot, the number of people or products being photographed, and the specific goals of the shoot.

In general, headshot photo sessions tend to be shorter in duration compared to branding photo sessions.

Headshot photo sessions are typically focused on capturing a single person’s face and expression, so they can often be completed in a relatively short amount of time. Depending on the specific needs of the client and the photographer’s style and approach, a headshot photo session could last anywhere from 1-2 hours. This allows the photographer to capture a variety of poses and expressions, giving the client a good selection of photos to choose from.

On the other hand, branding photo sessions are typically more involved and may take longer to complete. These photo shoots are focused on capturing the overall aesthetic and visual identity of a brand, which can require a wider range of locations and settings. Branding photo sessions may also include candid shots of the business owner or team in action, as well as product shots, which can add to the duration of the shoot. In general, branding photo sessions can last anywhere from one to several hours, depending on the specific goals and needs of the client.

Overall, the duration of a photo shoot will vary depending on the type of shoot and the specific goals and needs of the client. While headshot photo sessions tend to be shorter in duration, branding photo sessions may take longer to complete.

Tips on How to Prepare for the Shoot

Preparation is key to ensuring that your headshot or branding photo session goes smoothly and produces great results. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your upcoming photo shoot:

• Choose the right photographer: Do some research and find a photographer who has the experience and a portfolio that aligns with your vision and goals for the photo shoot. Meeting with potential photographers beforehand can also give you a sense of their style and approach, which can help you make the best decision for your needs.
• Identify your goals: Before the photo shoot, take some time to think about what you want to achieve with your photos. Do you want to showcase your personal brand and professionalism with headshots? Or do you want to create a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic for your brand with a branding photo session? Identifying your goals upfront will help you communicate them to your photographer and ensure that you get the results you’re looking for.
• Plan your outfits: For headshot photo sessions, it’s important to choose outfits that are professional and flattering but also reflect your personal style and branding. For branding photo sessions, consider coordinating outfits with your team or employees to create a cohesive look. It’s also a good idea to bring a few different options so you have some variety to choose from during the shoot.
• Consider your location: The location of your photo shoot can greatly impact the final look and feel of your photos. For headshot photo sessions, a studio setting is often ideal to control the lighting and background. For branding photo sessions, choose a location that reflects your brand’s aesthetic and personality.
• Relax and have fun: Finally, remember to relax and enjoy the photo shoot experience. Your photographer will guide you through the process and help you feel comfortable in front of the camera. Trust their expertise and have fun with it – the more relaxed and natural you look in your photos, the better they will turn out.

In conclusion, headshots and branding photos are important tools for showcasing your personal brand and visual identity online.

Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or individual looking to update your online presence, investing in professional headshots and branding photos can help you stand out and attract potential customers and clients.

As a professional photographer, I have the experience and expertise to help you capture the perfect headshots and branding photos that reflect your unique personality and brand.

Contact me today to schedule your photo shoot and take the first step toward elevating your online image.

Erin Laye Photography is a professional Portrait Photographer on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Erin Laye Photography offers a wide range of photographic images, including in-studio portraits, on-location sessions, and family portraits. The professional and creative work of Erin Laye Photography reflects a long history behind the camera. They have photographed countless individuals and done a lot of studio work since 2010.