5 Types of Brand Images Every Business Needs
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of planning a brand photography session, you’re not alone (hi, hello - it's me). That’s why I’m thrilled to have Kaysha, a professional brand photographer based in Orange County, CA, sharing her expert advice today. Kaysha has helped countless business owners feel confident in front of the camera, capturing images that truly reflect their brand. And she’s breaking down the five must-have shots every business owner should walk away with from a brand session—whether you’re running a product-based or service-based business. Let’s dive in!
Is overwhelmed one of the first words that comes to mind when you think about planning for a brand photography session?
As a professional brand photographer, I hear this all the time.
As a business owner, you know you need fresh, professional images that communicate your brand message to potential clients. And you want to make sure your investment is worth it.
What shots do you actually need to make your business shine?
I’ve spent years working with business owners, and every session has taught me something. All brands have commonalities when it comes to visual marketing, which means there are key images you’ll want to make sure you have.
When it comes to ‘must-have’ images, there are five I believe every business owner needs to walk away with at the end of their branding session. And this goes for product-based AND service-based businesses.
If you have a session with me, you’ll leave with an entire gallery of beautiful, curated images, but this is a great place to start as you begin to compile your shot list.
The 5 Branding Photos Every Business Owner Needs
#1 - Vertical Headshot
This is the most obvious (and important) photo you’ll need from your branding session, and for good reason. This traditional style headshot can be used a dozen different ways and is nice to have on hand to update all your online profiles. This is why I recommend having at least one clean and professional headshot of you looking directly at the camera. If you have a team, this should also include a headshot of each member.
#2 - Horizontal Image (with lots of negative space)
This style of photo is key for your website and, if you’re working with a web designer like, Sunday Muse Design, they will most certainly love this shot! An image with plenty of negative space on the left or right of you will allow for more personalization such as adding graphics or text. This can really strengthen your brand message in print and online.
Your horizontal image can and should be a variety of things: be a picture of you, your office/physical space, or maybe you at work, doing your thing!
#3 - Behind The Scenes
Here’s the truth: people love to see behind the scenes shots (of anything) and these types of photos really build a connection with your potential clientele. I urge you to capture a few of these photos - even if it’s just you behind the computer working! If you interact with clients, it would be ideal to get some images of you doing that. This will help potential clients visualize themselves working with you.
#4 - The Details
If you are a product-based business, having beautifully styled images of your products is a no-brainer. If you’re a service-based business, you might grapple with how to capture detailed shots - but believe me, it’s possible (and just as important).
Creative details for service-based businesses might include styled shots of your office, computer, planner, or phone. Incorporate things that matter and are unique to you. For example, have your photographer take photos of a mug that’s in your brand colors next to your computer. These will be on-brand (and cute) images to use on your social platforms, website, or newsletter.
#5 - Video Clips
We all know video is necessary for social media, but what you may not know is that some brand photographers (like me!) include an option for iPhone clips as part of your brand session. Short videos from your brand session can be compiled together in longer TikTok videos, used separately as backgrounds for Instagram reels, or even incorporated as eye-catching content on your website.
There are a million ways to use good video content, so consider adding this onto your session, if it’s an option. Or setting up your own phone on a tripod to capture some clips yourself can accomplish the same goal.
Committing to professional brand photos is a big step. So go into your session prepared. Your photographer should guide you, but make sure to let him or her know that these five image styles are must-haves. If you’re a business owner in Southern California in need of fresh brand photos, visit my website to check out ways we can work together.
Kaysha’s Bio
Kaysha empowers entrepreneurs to confidently show up for their businesses with authentic, high-quality branding photos. By combining professional photography expertise and a collaborative, supportive approach, she helps small business owners in Orange County and beyond tell their unique stories and connect with their ideal clients.
When she’s not behind the camera, you’ll find her outdoors exploring the unique beauty of Southern California and local foodie spots with her husband and son. At home, she’s probably decluttering, testing new recipes, or binging her latest book. Follow along with her adventures on Instagram.