8 personal branding photography myths you should leave behind in 2024

Personal branding photography is a powerful tool for pretty much all entrepreneurs and small business owners – but so few of us actually think about investing in it. Why?  There are a few misconceptions that often hold people back – do I actually need professional photos for my business? Can I look good in them? Aren’t they just glamorised LinkedIn headshots? Isn’t it too much for my budget?

And the list goes on.

But let me put my (pseudo) researcher hat on and debunk some of the most common myths.

1. “Personal branding photography is boring”

When people hear “personal branding photography,” they often picture stiff LinkedIn headshots or generic stock imagery.

But the reality is a bit different:

Sure, it can look like that—if that’s what you’re after. But it doesn’t have to be boring. Personal branding photography is about capturing your brand and personality exactly as they are.

You define what “professional” means for your business. It could mean colorful and fun, pop-art inspired, or elegant and sleek. The key is to reflect your unique energy and style.

Bottom line: It can’t—and shouldn’t—be boring, because you are not boring.

2. “Personal branding photography is expensive”

Many of you might think that professional branding photos are out of reach unless you have a big budget.

And yes, personal branding sessions can be an investment—but they’re one worth making. These photos are essentially your business’s storefront, shaping the first impression your clients and partners will have. High-quality, cohesive imagery pays dividends by elevating your brand’s perception.

But also, good to know that not all shoots break the bank. There is something for everyone out there, no matter your budget!

For instance, I offer two tailored options:

• A base session: Held at your home, office, or an outdoor location of your choice. It’s simple, natural and efficient—perfect for those who want professional images on a budget, as there are no additional costs like a studio involved.
• A more robust studio experience: Includes a rented studio that matches your brand’s aesthetic. With multiple photo corners, backdrops and outfit changes, this 1.5-hour session can give you variety and versatility in a single shoot. If you want something truly unique, I’m happy to find and recommend a custom studio space (available as an add-on).

When you view personal branding photography as an investment in your business, the costs start to make sense—and the benefits far outweigh them.

3. “I’m not photogenic”

“I hate being in front of the camera” or “I’m just not good in photos.”

Oh, if I had a dollar every time I heard this! (or told this to myself – I make no exception).

In reality, a good personal branding photographer makes you feel comfortable and confident.

My clients’ feedback is usually a unanimous “I felt so much more comfortable than expected!”.

If you’re having a shoot with me, we’ll work together to bring out your best angles and natural expressions. You don’t need to “perform” or “pose.” Think of it as a fun collaboration, not a stiff photoshoot.

Candid moments and natural laughter often make the best images—no fake smiles required.

4. “I don’t have time for a photoshoot”

The misconception: Personal branding sessions take too long and disrupt your schedule.

And of course, time is relative and our most valuable asset.

But a thing to remember is that many personal branding sessions are designed with busy entrepreneurs in mind.

A 1-hour session can fit into your day and still deliver professional results. I personally like to join you where most comfortable for you, like at your office or somewhere outdoors close to your location, if that helps you be more at ease.

For those wanting a more robust session, my 1.5-hour studio shoot offers added variety without taking up your whole day. And like mentioned before, considering we can swap between outfits and different photo corners, you get several mini shoots in one.

You working at a cozy desk in a business casual outfit? Moving to the couch for some laid back, flash photos that show the fun behind the brand? Some classic portraits in your best dress or shirt, drenched in that beautiful sunlight coming through the window?

Yes, we can do them ALL in one 1.5 hour session.

Talk about time efficiency!

5. “I don’t need personal branding photos”

Look, I won’t judge you if you use selfies or casual photos for your business.

In some cases, those might be enough to start with. Casual photos have their place – but professional branding photos make you look like an authority in your field.

These images tell a story about who you are and what your business stands for. They create trust and establish a polished, consistent image across all your platforms—website, social media, LinkedIn, and more.

6. “I don’t know what to do with branding photos”

OK, I’ve only heard this a few times so far. “What’s the point? I wouldn’t know where to use them.”

But as a marketing professional, I wanted to address it head-on.Personal branding images are versatile assets! There are SO many places where you can use them.

In general, personal branding packages include a wider range of usage rights (therefore also the slightly higher rates), so you should be able to use them pretty much anywhere business-related:

• • • Website headers and about pages
    • Social media content and ads
    • Press features and interviews
    • Pitch decks and presentations

You’ll be surprised at how many places you’ll find to use them once you have a cohesive set of professional images.

Of course, it’s always important to double check with your photographer to understand the rights. Some photographers on the more expensive end of the spectrum allow for almost unlimited usage, including third-party publications, as the rights are usually covered by the package’s higher price tag.

Others like me, who offer more low- and mid-range packages, have different terms for third-party publications – but pretty much everything can be arranged if discussed in advance!

7. “Branding photos aren’t for my industry”

Do you believe that personal branding is only for influencers or creative entrepreneurs? You’re not the only one.

But the truth is, personal branding photos work for every industry—whether you’re a consultant, real estate agent, coach, artisan, or tech entrepreneur.

Clients and collaborators want to see the face behind the business. This is why one of the most clicked pages on most websites is the “About Me” page (I can confirm!).

Your photos help them connect with you on a personal level, which builds trust and relatability.

The type of clients I’ve had so far for personal branding? Psychologists, personal coaches, candle makers, vintage clothes designers & creators, web developers, musicians, chefs, yoga and fitness instructors – and a bunch more.

8. “I’ll feel awkward and uncomfortable”

OK, this one’s related to the “not being photogenic” one. But it’s about how many think they’ll feel during the photoshoot: stressed, awkward, uncomfortable. Stiff and unnatural.

But photographers know this – we’re human and often we have the same fears.

I prioritize making you feel comfortable—whether that means starting with casual conversation, walking through a natural setting – or playing your favorite music in the studio.

I always start with some test photos of you doing a good bunch of nothing. And sometimes, those end up in the final edit selection because, you guessed it, they look natural.

My approach is collaborative and laid-back. You’ll feel like you’re spending time with a friend rather than posing for a camera – at least, that’s my goal x