Last week, I had an absolute blast working with Kristin from Studio Aray and her talented stylist, Serena of “Styled by Serena,” during my brand photoshoot. It had been a while since my last shoot—mainly because my previous photographer retired to pursue her passion for teaching. We had a solid run together, with a package that included four shoots over the course of 18 months. She provided me with a ton of great content (I’m talking over 1,000 photos!), which I’ve been using across my marketing channels.
But it was time for a little refresh. I was specifically looking for new photos that I could mix in with the older ones—something that would capture the evolution of me and my business, Wandersoul Co., while still allowing me to make the most of the photos I’ve already loved and used.
I’m passionate about having on-brand photos because they do more than just fill up space on a website or Instagram grid. They tell the story of who I am, what it’s like to work with me, and how I approach the work I do. The right photos create a connection with my audience that goes beyond words and deliver an experience that helps my brand stand out.
What I’ve learned through these photoshoots is that a brand photoshoot is very different from your typical headshot or portrait session. Understanding these differences is crucial because the right photos can make all the difference in your marketing. Brand photos don’t just show what you look like—they sell what it’s like to work with you. They give potential clients a sense of how they’ll feel when they partner with you, which is pretty much the exact opposite of what headshots or portraits are designed to do.
What is a Brand Photoshoot?
A brand photoshoot is not just about capturing your best angle or perfecting that polished smile. It’s about telling your story, showcasing your personality, and visually communicating what it’s like to work with you. Unlike a typical headshot or portrait session—which is often more formal, posed, and suited for professional profiles like LinkedIn—a brand photoshoot dives deeper into who you are and what your brand represents. It’s less about what you look like and more about what you do and how you show up for your clients.
For many second-career women who spent years in corporate, the idea of a photoshoot might conjure images of stiff headshots with plain backdrops—the ones that feel more like a requirement than a chance to express who you really are. But a brand photoshoot is the opposite of that. It’s about creating a visual experience that reflects your journey, your values, and the unique way you approach your work, whether you’re a podcaster, educator, course creator, or keynote speaker.
The purpose of a brand photoshoot is to capture the essence of your personal brand in a way that resonates with your audience. It allows you to show your personality, your passion, and the environment you thrive in. These photos aren’t just about looking professional; they’re about connecting with the people you want to serve by giving them a peek into who you really are and what it’s like to partner with you.
In contrast, a headshot or portrait session typically serves a singular purpose: making you look polished and professional. It’s often limited to formal profiles, your email signature, or a bio photo on your website. While those images are important, they don’t communicate much beyond “This is me in a suit, ready to work.” A brand photoshoot, on the other hand, gives you the space to be dynamic. It shows you in action—whether that’s behind a microphone, typing away at your laptop, or engaging with clients in a real-life scenario.
When done right, brand photos visually communicate your message and values across platforms, from your website and Instagram feed to your course materials and newsletters. They help potential clients not just see what you look like but feel how it will be to work with you—instilling trust, sparking interest, and making you unforgettable.
Why Second-Career Women Need a Brand Photoshoot
Making the leap from corporate life to building your own brand is no small feat. In the corporate world, the focus was likely on fitting into an existing mold—blending into the company culture, following protocols, and maybe even adopting a more neutral version of yourself for the sake of professionalism. But when you’re stepping into a new chapter as a podcaster, educator, course creator, or keynote speaker, the rules change. It’s no longer about fitting in; it’s about standing out, and that’s where a brand photoshoot comes in.
In this new space, your personal brand is everything. The shift from corporate to personal branding means you’re no longer just one part of a larger organization—you are the organization. And unlike the corporate environment, where being polished and professional might have been the only goal, now it’s just as important to be real and relatable. You’re showcasing your individuality, your expertise, and the unique experience you offer. Whether you’re speaking to an audience of thousands or leading an intimate online course, people are choosing to work with you because of who you are, not just what you can do.
That’s why brand photography is SO important. It’s not just about looking polished or professional (though you’ll still get those shots); it’s about telling your story visually. These photos capture the essence of you—your personality, your approach to business, and the experience you create for your clients. It’s about showing the world what makes you unique and letting that individuality shine through every photo. And when you’re building a personal brand, especially as a second-career woman stepping into a new role, that visual storytelling can make all the difference.
In today’s world, where podcasters, digital educators, and speakers rely so heavily on authenticity and personal connection to reach their audience, having brand photos that reflect who you really are is crucial. Gone are the days of stuffy, formal headshots being the only representation of your business. Now, it’s about blending professionalism with approachability. People want to work with someone they can trust, someone they feel connected to. And as much as we rely on words to make that connection, visuals are just as important—sometimes even more so.
A well-executed brand photoshoot helps you communicate your expertise in a way that feels real and approachable. It shows your audience that you’re someone they can relate to, learn from, and ultimately trust. Whether it’s a candid shot of you in action, a relaxed pose in your workspace, or even a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how you run your business, these images help you stand out from the crowd and establish yourself as a leader in your new endeavor. They bring together the best of both worlds: expertise and relatability, wrapped up in a visual package that helps you connect with your audience on a deeper level.
How to Prepare for a Brand Photoshoot
Getting ready for a brand photoshoot is an exciting process, but it’s also more than just picking out your favorite outfit and showing up with a smile. It’s about thinking strategically about how to visually tell your story in a way that connects with your audience. When you plan with intention, you can create images that not only look good but also work for you—across your website, social media, and any other platforms where you want to show up as the face of your brand. Here’s how to get ready for your shoot so that it reflects your personality, your business, and the experience you want to create for your clients.
Define Your Brand Story
Before anything else, take some time to get clear on the story you’re telling through your photos. Think about your journey from corporate life to becoming an entrepreneur, educator, or thought leader. What’s your “why”? What values are central to your work now, and how do they set you apart? For second-career women, this shift is often about embracing individuality and creating something that feels deeply personal and aligned with your expertise.
Your photos should reflect this narrative. Are you warm and approachable? Bold and visionary? Do you want your audience to feel empowered, supported, or inspired when they look at your images? The more you understand what story you’re telling, the easier it will be to guide the shoot in a direction that feels authentic to who you are—and makes your audience feel connected to you.
Select the Right Photographer
Once you’ve defined your brand story, the next step toward crafting a successful brand photoshoot is finding the right photographer. You want someone who understands your vision and has a style that aligns with how you want to showcase your brand. This is not the time to settle for a portrait photographer—even if you’ve worked with them before and feel comfortable. Portrait photographers often specialize in capturing more formal, static images, and while those can be great for LinkedIn or a professional bio, they’re not going to give you the dynamic, storytelling images you need for your brand.
A brand photoshoot is about capturing the experience of working with you, not just what you look like. The right photographer will know how to bring your personality, your work, and your values to life through the lens. Look for someone who has experience with brand photography, and take the time to browse their portfolio. Do their images evoke a sense of connection? Do they feel authentic, approachable, and aligned with the message you want to send?
Make sure the photographer understands your goals for the shoot and has a process for helping you craft the story you need to tell. The best photographers won’t just show up and snap pictures—they’ll help you plan, pose, and feel comfortable, ensuring that every shot reflects who you are and what your brand stands for.
Select Your Outfits
Your outfits should be an extension of your brand. Think about the colors, styles, and textures that align with the message you want to send. If you’re all about creating a calm, peaceful learning environment, you might lean toward soft, neutral tones. If you’re vibrant and energetic, bolder colors might better reflect your personality. Comfort is key—because if you’re not comfortable, it’ll show in the photos. So, choose pieces that make you feel confident, polished, and like the best version of yourself.
I’m a big believer in mixing up your looks. For example, you might go for one polished, professional look that’s perfect for your website’s ‘About’ page and another that’s more casual, showing you in a relatable light for social media posts or behind-the-scenes shots. Variety will give you more options to use across different platforms.
Identify Key Locations
The location of your shoot can say just as much as the clothes you wear. Think about where you do your best work. Are you most comfortable in your home office, surrounded by books and the tools of your trade? Or does an outdoor setting that reflects your adventurous spirit feel more “you”? You could even consider shooting in multiple locations to show different aspects of your brand: maybe a cozy indoor space for more intimate shots and a more dynamic, open space for photos that reflect creativity and expansion.
Whatever you choose, the location should feel authentic to you and your brand. If you’re a podcaster or speaker, consider using your actual workspace or including a setup that reflects what your daily life looks like. It gives your audience a behind-the-scenes look that builds connection and trust.
Prepare Props
Props are a fun way to add depth and personality to your photos. Think about the tools of your trade—whether that’s your laptop, podcasting microphone, favorite books, or even a cup of coffee that symbolizes how you connect with clients. For second-career women stepping into roles as educators or speakers, using props like presentation materials, notebooks, or your podcast equipment can show you in action and make the images feel more dynamic.
The key here is not to overdo it. You want your props to feel natural and add to the story, not take over the photo. Select a few key pieces that represent your work and your brand, and let them enhance the experience rather than clutter it.
Pre-shoot Checklist
When it comes to the day of your brand photoshoot, a little planning goes a long way in making sure everything runs smoothly. Here’s how to prepare so you can feel confident, relaxed, and totally in the moment.
- Outfits Ready to Go: Make sure the clothes you’ve chosen are freshly laundered and hung up the night before. This avoids any last-minute ironing or panic over wrinkles on the day of the shoot. Even small details like wrinkles can stand out in photos, so taking this step will help everything look polished.
- Manicure Time: Even if you’re not someone who usually pays attention to your nails, consider getting a manicure a day or two before your shoot. Even a clear coat of polish can go a long way when it comes to close-up shots where your hands might be featured—whether you’re holding a book, typing on your laptop, or gesturing during a conversation.
- Pack Your Props: Think through any props you’ll want to bring—whether it’s your laptop, favorite books, podcasting equipment, or even that signature coffee mug you can’t live without. Box them up the night before, so everything is organized and ready to grab on the day of the shoot. If you’re traveling to a location, this will make sure you don’t forget anything in the rush of getting out the door.
- Beauty Prep: Besides your outfit and nails, think about your hair and makeup. Whether you’re handling it yourself or bringing in a professional, you’ll want to plan for enough time to get ready without rushing. The goal is to look and feel like the best version of yourself.
The more prepared you are, the more time you’ll have to focus on being present during the shoot—and that’s where the magic happens.
Make it an Experience
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from my own brand photoshoots is that it’s important to treat the day like an experience, not just another task on your to-do list. After all, you are your first and best client—and this is your time to really show up for yourself.
Start by not rushing. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready, and set the tone with a playlist that puts you in the right mindset. For me, that meant playing my favorite music on the drive to the shoot, setting the energy, and building excitement for the day. This isn’t just a photoshoot; it’s a celebration of all the hard work you’ve put into your business.
I also recommend treating yourself to something special. Whether it’s your favorite coffee on the way to the shoot or a lunch out afterward, make it part of the experience. When I had my most recent photoshoot, I treated myself to Thai milk tea with boba (because, why not?). It was a small way to mark the day as something special and keep the vibe light and positive.
Most importantly, give yourself permission to take the whole day off if you can. Clear your schedule of client work and make this day about you. By prioritizing yourself, you’ll show up for the shoot feeling energized and present—and that will absolutely shine through in your photos. This mindset will help you fully capture the experience you want to share with your audience.
Remember, your brand photoshoot is an opportunity to honor the journey you’ve been on, celebrate your unique brand, and show yourself some love. Don’t under-do it or rush through it because of client work. This is your moment, and you deserve to make it feel just as special as the experience you’ll one day offer your own clients.
The Types of Photos You Need for Social Media, Marketing, and Your Website
When planning your brand photoshoot, it’s crucial to create images that can stand the test of time. You want photos that not only capture your personality and work but also stay relevant for years to come. Let’s be honest: trends change, styles evolve, and even your personal look might shift. I’ve been there—during my first photoshoot, I had pink hair, and while I love those images, they don’t quite represent who I am now, so I use them less often. The key to a successful brand photoshoot is to create a visual narrative that grows with you but still feels cohesive as you evolve. Here’s how to do that while still capturing the essential types of photos for your business.
Lifestyle Shots
These candid shots of you working, teaching, or engaging with your audience are key for maintaining an authentic online presence. However, when planning these, think about creating images that can seamlessly blend with future shoots. Avoid any visual elements that feel overly trendy or tied to a specific moment in time—like bold fashion statements or trendy decor that might age quickly. Choose neutral, timeless environments and wear pieces that can be mixed and matched over the years, allowing these images to stay relevant as you and your brand grow.
Signature Headshots
While lifestyle shots keep things casual, your signature headshot is the polished, professional image that anchors your brand. To make sure this image has staying power, opt for a look that reflects you, but won’t feel dated in a year or two. Simple, classic wardrobe choices and natural hair/makeup styling can ensure that your headshot stays relevant longer. This image is essential for your website’s “About” page, social profiles, and any media appearances, so it’s worth investing the time to create a look that feels both current and timeless.
Action Shots
These are photos of you in the middle of doing what you do best—whether it’s speaking on stage, podcasting, or teaching a course. Because these images are tied to your expertise, they tend to hold up longer than more casual shots. However, the same principles apply: go for classic, versatile clothing and settings that won’t look outdated. Action shots can be powerful for website banners, event marketing, and promotional materials, so making them timeless ensures they’ll continue to support your brand as you evolve.
Behind-the-Scenes Photos
Behind-the-scenes images are perfect for humanizing your brand and giving your audience a glimpse into your process. These photos will naturally feel less formal, but they can still be planned with longevity in mind. Consider capturing moments that are authentic to your day-to-day work but that won’t feel out of sync with future photoshoots. The goal is to create a collection of images that you can continue using across your platforms without them feeling “stuck” in a specific year or style moment.
Detail Shots
Close-ups of your tools of the trade—like microphones, notebooks, or your laptop—are a great way to visually communicate your work without always having to show your face. The great thing about detail shots is that they naturally hold up over time, especially if you stick to timeless objects and avoid anything too trendy or specific to a particular moment. These are perfect for filler content on your website and social media, as well as to break up text-heavy sections of your marketing materials.
Seasonal and Versatile Photos
One of the most strategic things you can do is plan for different seasonal needs or key business milestones throughout the year. However, even with seasonal photos, aim to keep things classic. This might mean capturing a winter shoot with a cozy sweater rather than an overly trendy look that might feel dated next year. These versatile images can be reused for various promotions, workshops, or launches throughout the year, giving you a consistent visual identity across seasons.
Pro Tip: Make sure to capture photos with plenty of white space. This gives you the flexibility to add text or overlays for marketing materials and social media graphics. And don’t forget to communicate with your photographer about capturing both horizontal and vertical shots—horizontal for website banners and email marketing, and vertical for Instagram Stories and Reels.
Finally, when choosing your wardrobe for the shoot, stay away from fast fashion. While it might seem fun to wear a trendy piece, those items can date your photos quickly. Instead, go for timeless pieces that you can mix and match over time. That way, your images will blend seamlessly with future shoots, ensuring that as you continue to evolve, your photos remain consistent and aligned with your brand’s growth. Your brand story is always evolving, but your photos should grow with you, not against you.
How to Use Your Brand Photos Across Platforms
Once you’ve invested in a brand photoshoot and have a solid library of images, it’s time to get strategic about how you use them. These photos are powerful tools for building recognition, trust, and engagement with your audience, and they can elevate your entire brand experience when used across multiple platforms. Let’s break down how to make the most of your brand photos in key areas of your marketing.
Social Media
When it comes to social media, it’s incredibly important to remain consistent in the imagery you use to create that perfect 9-square grid. Your brand photos are not just about looking pretty on your grid—they’re about creating a cohesive, recognizable presence that helps you stand out. Think about using your brand photos for profile pictures, cover images, and post content on platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and even Threads if that’s where your community is.
On Instagram, you can rotate between lifestyle shots, behind-the-scenes moments, and action shots to keep your feed interesting and engaging. Try using photos with lots of white space or room for text overlays when you’re promoting a new service, sharing a quote, or offering a tip to your audience. And don’t forget about Instagram Stories or Reels—this is where those vertical shots will really come in handy. Your brand photos can add polish to your stories, making even the most casual updates look on-brand and professional.
For LinkedIn, stick to your more polished images—like your signature headshot or action shots that showcase your expertise. These will help you build credibility and present a professional, yet approachable version of yourself. Consistently updating your profile and post images will make sure your personal brand stays top of mind with your audience.
Website
Your website is the digital hub of your brand, and your photos are one of the most powerful tools you have to create a memorable first impression. Strategic placement of your brand photos can elevate the visual experience of your site, making it feel more personal, polished, and aligned with your values.
- Homepage: This is where you’ll want to put one of your best action shots or lifestyle images. You want visitors to land on your homepage and immediately get a sense of who you are and what you do. A strong image here can capture attention and set the tone for the rest of your site.
- About Page: This is where your signature headshot will shine. Pair it with a bio that tells your story and reinforces the connection between you and your audience. You can also use a lifestyle shot here to show a more relaxed, behind-the-scenes version of yourself.
- Services Page: Action shots of you doing your thing—whether that’s speaking, teaching, or working with a client—are perfect for showcasing what you offer. These images give potential clients a feel for what it’s like to work with you, helping them visualize themselves in that scenario.
- Blog: Behind-the-scenes and lifestyle photos are great for blog posts, especially if you’re writing about your process or sharing insights from your daily work. These images add a personal touch to your content and make your blog more engaging.
By using your brand photos strategically across your website, you’re not only creating a visually cohesive experience but also reinforcing the story and personality behind your brand.
Marketing Materials
Your brand photos aren’t just for social media and websites—they’re also essential for all of your marketing materials. Whether you’re sending out email newsletters, creating a speaker sheet for an upcoming event, or designing promotional graphics for a course launch, these images will help you maintain a consistent, professional look.
- Email Newsletters: Use your headshot or a behind-the-scenes image in your email signature to add a personal touch. You can also incorporate lifestyle shots and action photos within the body of your email to make your newsletters visually appealing and engaging.
- Digital Courses: If you offer digital courses, use your action shots to introduce yourself to your students. These photos help create a personal connection, showing them that there’s a real person behind the lessons. You can also use detail shots of your workspace or tools to break up text-heavy slides or course materials.
- Speaker Sheets & Promo Graphics: When you’re promoting an event or service, action shots and headshots are essential. Use them in your speaker sheets to create a professional yet personal connection with event organizers. For promotional graphics, choose photos with white space or simple backgrounds, so you can easily add text without cluttering the image.
By consistently using your brand photos across all platforms, you’re building a cohesive and professional image that helps people recognize and connect with you. And that’s what your brand is all about—making sure that no matter where your audience encounters you, they know exactly who you are and what you stand for.
Final Thoughts
I can’t even tell you how freaking excited I am to see my new photos—it feels like Christmas morning is right around the corner! Brand photoshoots are always such a powerful reminder of why I love what I do, and they capture that energy in a way that words sometimes can’t. For me, this recent shoot wasn’t just about getting updated images—it was about honoring my growth and giving myself the space to truly celebrate how far Wandersoul Co has come.
When you invest in a brand photoshoot, you’re doing more than just getting nice pictures. You’re building a visual story that connects you with your audience, reflects your unique personality, and showcases your expertise in a way that feels real and approachable. Whether you’re a podcaster, course creator, keynote speaker, or digital educator, your brand photos are going to help you stand out and grow your business in ways you might not even realize yet.
And here’s the thing—don’t underestimate the importance of making it an experience. Take the day off, treat yourself, and allow yourself to show up as your first and best client. Your audience will feel that energy in the photos, and it’ll help you show up even more confidently across all your platforms.
The best part? These photos are just the beginning. They’re going to blend beautifully with future shoots, ensuring your brand evolves seamlessly without missing a beat. You’re creating a legacy for your business, one image at a time.
So get ready, because your brand is about to level up in the most visual, powerful, and authentic way possible. And trust me—when you see those final photos, you’re going to be just as excited as I am.
