Clearly these days, words are not enough. When it comes to building a personal brand for yourself, great portraits are essential! We are long past the days when a blurry iPhone selfie is going to cut it. To connect with your dream clients, you are going to need to show your authentic self. To give people an idea of what you are all about and what makes you unique. And you can only do that with great portraits.

Even if at the start, you aren’t thinking of using portraits of yourself on your website or social media, I think you will soon be changing your mind, What people want to see you on your Instagram is you, showing up for your brand. And you’ll need a headshot for linked in. Again, people will pay more attention to your words if they see who is behind them. Anonymity on the internet is for trolls and the like. It’s time for you to be visible!

Once you have accepted that you need portraits for your personal brand, you will need to decide how you want to come across. Perhaps you will want to look serious, approachable, competent, friendly. Whatever your vibe is, whether super serious or colourful and creative. Your portraits should reflect YOU and give your targeted clients a good idea of who you are. You need portraits which bring your brand to life and demonstrate your commitment, your energy, your personality. Images that allow your customers to connect with you.

but what if I want to use my own portraits for building my personal brand?

If you think you can achieve this with a friend and a smart phone, be my guest. But it won’t look professional. Your mate (unless they are a professional portrait photographer) will not be able to capture the best version of you. To make you feel relaxed in front of the camera and show you at your best. It will only look as if you don’t think it’s worth spending the money on a professional photographer. And I’m not sure that is the message you wish to be putting across! Because when comes to building a personal brand, you need to invest. After all, you are investing in yourself. You will need the right locations, lighting and professional editing, not an Instagram filter!

And if you are thinking of booking a personal branding photoshoot but aren’t sure what you would wear, have a look at my blog on how to style your photoshoot.

And if you are ready to work with a personal branding photographer, I would love to help! You can email me on serena@serenabolton.com, ring me on 07958511819 or click to book a Zoom or telephone conversation.

“Photography through the lens of a storyteller”

LONDON PERSONAL BRANDING AND HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHER