How do you know when the time is right to book a brand photographer? After all, it is a big decision if it's your first time investing in brand photos, and there are a million other things vying for your attention when you run a small business.
So, if you're like most people you are making do with a profile picture from your last job, or a particularly successful selfie.
Here are three signs to look out for to know when it is time to go right ahead and get your brand photography session booked in.
1. You want to be at the top of your audience's mind
Let's face it, there are hundreds of marketing specialists, designers, therapists. photographers that your potential client can choose from. And one of the main thing to distinguish yourself from the rest is YOU - and your unique personality and set of experiences.
Now, there's a lot you can do to set yourself apart, with what you write, your brand identity and, of course, all those real life interactions you have with your clients. BUT, having a set of images that portray you and what you're about is a way to shortcut the process of people growing to trust you, and deciding to work with you.
Wheter it's showing the freckles across your smiling face, your watermelon nail acrylics, your highly impractical royal blue velvet sofa - all those personal cues that tell people a bit about what you're like. And when people feel like they know you, they are more likely to warm to you and listen to what you say.
OR, they think you're a total prat and unfollow you which happens to be a good thing, as those aren't the sorts of people that you're going to enjoy working with!
2. You find yourself reusing the same image multiple times
I know that you were having a particularly good hair day in that photo but, my dear, it was taken five years ago when you were in that job you couldn't stand.
Now, there's nothing wrong with a headshot but it's just that - a snapshot of your face, that doesn't tell people very much about who you are.
If you're trying to build more of a presence online, be that on Instagram, LinkedIn or on your own blog, having photos that tell the story of who you are with a range of expressions and moods will make you stand out so much more. Having professional photos shows the world that you mean business - that what you are offering is of quality and high value.
Equally importantly, having a bank of images that portray what you're about is going to save you a tonne of time scrolling through your phone for a decent image. Or trying to direct your partner to take a nice photo and getting bashful and frustrated in the process (I've been that person!)
3. You feel nervous as hell about booking a shoot
This might seem counterintuitive, but if the thought of having a brand shoot makes your stomach flip, this suggests that it's something you need to do.
Why? Because often we feel this way when we know what we need to do to advance our business but it requires us to step outside our comfort zone.
Deciding to invest in your business and be more visible, so you can attract more of your ideal clients IS a big deal. It means putting yourself out there, including in front of all the long lost school acquaintances and former colleagues, who you might imagine judging you as a poser for getting proper photos done.
But, if you want to make bigger moves and be known in your field, this is what it takes.
Now, don't get me wrong, feeling camera shy is very understandable and normal. But often underlying that is a feeling of being judged as arrogant or a show off, and that my friend does nothing to help women and people from marginalised groups to be more influential in the world of work.
So, if deep down you know that brand photography would help you but you're feeling scared, feel the fear and do it anyway!
I'm ready, waiting to here from you so please do get in touch - I promise there will be zero pressure from me to book a shoot.
And, if you just need a couple of banging photos to get you up and running, check out my Rotterdam March mini personal branding shoots - slots are selling fast!