If you’re investing in professional photography, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to book a branding session or a headshot session. Both are powerful tools—but they serve different purposes. Understanding what each one offers can help you decide which is the best fit for where you are in your career or business journey.
What Is a Modern Headshot?
Gone are the days of stiff, corporate mugshots. Today’s modern headshots are more versatile, approachable, and visually dynamic. Most are shot on solid color backgrounds (such as white, gray, or black), giving them a polished and timeless look.
Modern headshots also feature 3/4 crops, which means the composition begins between the waist and knees and includes a bit more negative space around the subject. This allows for more natural posing, better visual balance, and flexibility for cropping or placing the image in different media formats.
These types of images are ideal for:
- LinkedIn profiles
- Company team pages
- Media kits
- Conference speaker bios
- Business cards and email signatures
If you’re updating your online presence or need a strong image for professional networking, a modern headshot may be the perfect choice.
What Is Personal Branding Photography?
Branding photography goes beyond the headshot—it tells the full story of who you are and what you do. These sessions include a series of images featuring multiple looks, environments, and props that reflect your brand’s voice and personality.
They are typically used for:
- Website homepages and about pages
- Social media content and ads
- Podcast graphics and course platforms
- Email newsletters and press features
Branding photos often include lifestyle shots, behind-the-scenes imagery, and editorial-style portraits that help you build trust and connection with your audience.
So, Which One Do You Actually Need?
Ask yourself:
- Do I just need one or two polished images for professional use?
→ Book a modern headshot session. - Do I need a full suite of on-brand images that help me show up consistently online and across marketing platforms?
→ Go with a branding session.
Final Thoughts
Both headshots and branding photos have their place—and often, clients choose to start with headshots and later invest in branding once they have clarity on their messaging and audience.
👉 If you’re still not sure, let’s talk! We’ll help you choose the session that’s right for your goals and ensure you walk away with images you’re proud to share.
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