Headshots vs Branding, what’s the difference?
Let’s talk about something that often gets mixed up like socks in the dryer: headshots and branding photos.
If you’ve ever thought, “Aren’t they basically the same thing?”—you’re not alone. They do both involve you, a camera, and hopefully some good lighting. But beyond that? They’re playing very different roles in your visual identity game. So let’s break it down, shall we?
Headshots: Your Classic “Hi, This Is Me” Photo
Think of a headshot as your business card photo. It’s clean, simple, and all about your lovely face. It’s the image you'd use on LinkedIn, a company bio, or anywhere that screams, “Yes, I am a real professional human being.”
What makes a headshot a headshot?
* It’s usually from the shoulders up
* You’re looking at the camera (smiling or giving your best CEO smolder)
* Neutral background or a simple environment
* The focus is just on you—not your brand, not your vibe, just you in all your face-forward glory
Headshots are great for when you want to look approachable, trustworthy, and like you didn’t crop your image out of a group photo at your cousin’s wedding (we see you).
Branding Photos: The Full Story
Now enter the main character: branding photography.
Branding photos go beyond the face—they tell your story. They show the you behind the business, the personality behind the product, the vibe behind the vision. These are the scroll-stoppers. The ones that make people go, “Ooh! I love their energy!”
What makes branding photos different?
* They include a variety of shots: lifestyle, behind-the-scenes, flat lays, working in your space, laughing with your coffee (yes, it's a thing)
* They showcase your brand’s colors, mood, and message
* Props, outfits, and environments are thoughtfully chosen to reflect you and your biz
* They help your audience connect with your story—not just your smile
Branding photos say, “Here’s what I do, how I do it, and why you’re going to love it.” It’s marketing with a heartbeat. A headshot is the handshake—branding photos are the whole conversation.
So, Which Do You Need?
Short answer: Probably both.
Long answer: It depends on where you're showing up and what you want people to know about you.
If you’re updating your LinkedIn, speaking at an event, or joining a professional directory? Headshot.
If you’re launching a website, building your personal brand, promoting a product, or just want your social media to stop looking like a stock photo graveyard? Branding session, baby.
The Bottom Line
Headshots are like the profile pic. Branding photos? That’s the full feed.
They work together to help you show up confidently, consistently, and authentically—whether you’re networking, marketing, or just out here trying to look like you have it all together (no judgment, same).
Ready to get both? Let’s make it happen. Whether you need a sleek headshot, a storytelling branding session, or the perfect combo of both—I’ve got you. Check out my work here, or reach out to book your session. I promise we’ll keep it fun, relaxed, and totally you.