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Branding Photography and Headshots Photos, what's the difference?

Writer's picture: Fiona BielbyFiona Bielby

Updated: Jan 28

When it comes to professional photography, the terms “branding photoshoot” and “headshot photography” are often used interchangeably, but they serve very different purposes. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or professional, understanding the difference between headshot and branding photography is key! Let me break down the key differences between branding photoshoots and headshot photography for you; this will help you make an informed decision.


Eight people in blue shirts stand smiling in a frame shop. A sign on a red easel reads "The Framed Picture Co." Numerous frame samples display behind.
The Framed Picture Company, Malton

What Is a Branding Photoshoot?

A branding photoshoot is a comprehensive session designed to visually communicate your brand’s identity. It’s about more than just taking photos of you; it’s about telling your story, showcasing your personality, and capturing the essence of your business. This is why I love branding sessions so much, it's about showing your audience what you have to offer and why they should choose you over the hundreds of other professionals out there. Making connections and being relatable is key, this is how I choose the people I'd like to work with too.


Woman with glasses crafting a felt figurine during her branding session in a cosy studio, surrounded by patterned fabrics and colourful decor, smiling contentedly.
Alison perfecting her skill at the Wytchwood Studio, Malton
Framed felt artwork of two pig faces; adjacent to a green plant in a white pot on a brick ledge. Small card displays art details.
The  Wytchwood Studio, Malton
Artist crafting in a cosy studio surrounded by framed artworks and fabrics during her branding session. A plant on a red brick wall adds warmth to the setting.
 Wytchwood Studio, Malton
Capturing in a branding session, hands arranging brown and beige wool on a wooden table. Person wears rings and bracelets. Cosy setting with a soft, artistic vibe.
 Wytchwood Studio, Malton


Key Features of a Branding Photoshoot:

  1. Personalised to Your Brand Branding sessions are tailored to reflect your unique style, values, and brand voice. This might include specific colours, props, or locations that align with your brand’s aesthetic.

  2. Diverse Range of Images The focus isn’t just on you as an individual but also on the elements that represent your business. This can include candid shots of you at work, detail shots of your products, or lifestyle images that resonate with your audience.

  3. Multiple Uses Branding photos are versatile and can be used across your website, social media, marketing materials, and more. They’re ideal for creating a cohesive and professional look across all your platforms.

  4. Extended Sessions These shoots are typically longer than headshot sessions, as they involve multiple setups, wardrobe changes, and often a variety of locations.

  5. Team or Solo While a branding shoot often focuses on a single individual, it can also include your team, your workspace, or even behind-the-scenes elements of your business.



 

This selection of images of Christine working in her gallery shows off what she does and the style of her artistry, it also gives us an insight into her personality and the materials she uses. I'll always encourage you to show me what you do during a branding session.


Artist in pink top and overalls paints colourful fabric on the table in a colourful art studio during a branding session. A sign reads "Paperspoon Home Interiors Artist Gallery."
The Gallery Malton
Branding session of an artist painting abstract designs with pink, blue, and black strokes. Holding a paintbrush and jar of pink paint. Bright, creative setting.
The Gallery Malton
Smiling woman in pink shirt and denim apron holding a paint tube in a studio. Background shows artwork, shelves, and a floor lamp.
The Gallery Malton

 


During a branding session, I capture images that will look perfect as banners on your website and that would also make great content for your social media, we try to portray your brand as much as we can in these images. Blane's coffee is wholesome and authentic, and his blends are carefully researched and taste tested to ensure the standard desired, adding hints of the brand throughout and high-quality props (the croissant and crockery) help convey this message.


Branding session website banner of Coffee beans on wooden table surround card saying "FOREST ESPRESSO, Great Coffee For Great People." Calm, rustic vibe.
Forest Espresso's Home Page.
Hands holding a pile of dark brown coffee beans over a blurred metal surface. Beans scattered around, creating a rustic feel to this branding session.
Hands forming a heart portray athenticity and thoughtfullness.
Man posing for a branding session in black sitting in a dim room, looking at phone. Wooden floor, vintage chair, dark walls, window, and a small table with bottles. Relaxed mood.
A casual shot of the face behind the brand, for someone who at the time didn't wantto be in any photos, I was happy with this.
Person pours coffee from a glass pitcher into a black and white cup as a detail shot in a branding session. Coffee bags labeled "Ethiopia" and "Colombia" are on a table.
Forest Espresso
Three cups of coffee next to an almond-topped croissant on parchment, arranged on a wooden table. Warm and inviting breakfast scene.
Froest Espresso


What Is Headshot Photography?

Headshot photography, on the other hand, is much more focused. It’s all about capturing a professional image of you, typically from the shoulders up. A headshot is often your first impression, whether on a company website, LinkedIn profile, or business card.


Headshot of a smiling person in a beige cable-knit sweater, sitting against a plain background. Warm lighting creates a friendly atmosphere.

Woman with blonde hair smiling while looking down, wearing a blue denim zip-up top. White background; joyful mood in a headshot.

Woman with long hair in white sweater leans on wooden table for her headshot, resting face on hand. Interior setting with green cushions in background.

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair smiles, wearing a dark denim jacket against a plain white background for her Headshot. Her mood appears cheerful.

Headshot of a man in a blue sweater smiling, sitting against a plain background. He has a warm expression and folded hands resting on a table.


Key Features of Headshot Photography:

  1. Professional Representation Headshots are designed to present you as polished, approachable, and credible. They’re perfect for conveying professionalism in corporate and formal settings.

  2. Simple and Clean Headshots usually have a straightforward composition, with a neutral or softly blurred background that keeps the focus on you.

  3. Quick Sessions Compared to branding sessions, headshot photography is quicker and more to the point, often lasting just 15-30 minutes.

  4. Minimal Styling While you might change outfits for a headshot session, the styling is generally more subdued, focusing on capturing a clear and engaging image of you.

  5. Primarily Individual A headshot session typically centres on one person, making it a great choice for professionals who need an updated profile picture.



 


Do you need Headshot Photography or a Branding Photo Session?


To decide between a branding photoshoot and headshot photography, consider your goals


  • Choose a Branding Photoshoot if:

    • You’re a business owner, freelancer, or creative looking to visually tell your story.

    • You need a variety of images for websites, social media, or marketing campaigns.

    • You want to highlight your workspace, products, or the ‘behind the scenes’ of your business.



  • Choose Headshot Photography if:

    • You need a professional portrait for a CV, LinkedIn profile, or company website.

    • You’re looking for a quick and simple session to update your current headshot.

    • You’re part of a corporate team requiring consistent images for multiple staff members.



Can You Combine Both?

It’s worth noting that my branding packages offer that blend the two. For instance, my branding sessions include a few professional headshots if you'd like them, I find people often opt for the Branding Session when they're not so keen on being the other side of the camera, I always encourgae you to have them, you never know whe you might need them. This can be an efficient way to cover all bases while keeping your visual identity consistent.





Final Thoughts

Both branding photoshoots and headshot photography play important roles in today’s professional world, but they serve distinct purposes. By understanding the difference, you can choose the right option to meet your needs and elevate your personal or business image. Whether you’re looking to tell your brand’s story or simply update your profile picture, investing in professional photography is always a step in the right direction.



Man training a brown horse on a dark sand arena. The horse appears to be yawning. Trees and colorful poles in the background.
McNickle Horsemanship, Yorkshire

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