As a brand photographer, I’ve seen firsthand the power of images to tell a story. When done right, personal brand photography not only captures beautiful photos but also weaves together the story of who you are, what you stand for, and why your business matters.
There is a lot of noise in the market and your audience craves connection. Storytelling through photography is one of the best ways to give it to them.
Here are my top tips on how you can use brand photography to make your brand relatable, engaging, and memorable.
1. Showcase your values
Saskia Cote, Healing Facilitator
uses brand photography to make it clear what her core brand values are.
At the heart of every brand story are the values that define it. Is your business focused on wellness? Do you prioritize personalized care, holistic healing, or community support? Your brand photos should reflect these core principles.
For example, if wellness is a key part of your brand, images of peaceful environments, self-care rituals, or behind-the-scenes shots of your holistic treatments can communicate your message without saying a word.
This helps potential clients instantly understand what sets your business apart.
2. Capture authentic moments
Tatiana Cole, Income Strategist & Coach
uses this photo of an authentic moment to show her in action.
Brand photography isn’t just about posed, polished pictures. It’s about capturing authentic moments that give your audience a glimpse into the real you.
Behind-the-scenes shots, interactions with clients, or even candid moments at your desk can communicate the passion and dedication you bring to your work.
Authenticity builds trust and helps potential clients feel more connected to your brand.
3. Highlight the human side
Valley Community Development interfaces with people from different backgrounds.
They showcase this in the images they use.
Your brand story is about more than just your products or services—it’s about the people behind them. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or part of a small team, showcasing the human side of your brand makes it more relatable.
Personal branding photos can capture your personality, your workspace, and your day-to-day operations, allowing your audience to see who they’re doing business with.
This is especially important for small businesses and startups where building relationships is key.
4. Use Props to Tell Your Story
The power of props. Kimberly Miner of Change Work
cutting up a credit card to visually represent what she helps her clients achieve.
Props can be incredibly powerful in brand photography when used thoughtfully. They help convey a sense of action and purpose.
For example, a wellness coach might use a notepad, yoga mat, or cup of tea to create a warm, inviting scene that communicates relaxation and self-care.
Choose props that represent your brand’s values and the experience you want your customers to have.
5. Show your process
Well-known Western Massachusetts chef, Bill Collins, uses photos
to show how he approaches his culinary craft.
People love seeing how things are made. Whether you’re a maker, service provider, or creative entrepreneur, giving your audience a behind-the-scenes look at your process is a great way to tell your brand’s story.
It humanizes your business and builds transparency, which can be a huge trust builder. Think about how you can use your photography to show the journey from idea to finished product.
6. Create consistent visual themes
The Pai Wellness Group is clear
about their brand colors and positioning. Their images reflect this.
Consistency is key when telling your brand’s story. From the colors and tones in your photos to the way you position yourself or your products, a cohesive visual theme helps your audience recognize and connect with your brand more easily.
This visual consistency should extend across your website, social media, and marketing materials to create a seamless experience for your audience.
7. Feature your customers or community
It’s about the people.
Beloved Buildings understands this well.
Your brand story isn’t just about you—it’s about the people you serve. Featuring your clients, customers, or community in your brand photography is a powerful way to highlight your impact.
Whether it’s a testimonial shot, an image of a happy customer using your product, or photos from an event you’ve hosted, showcasing real people who love what you do can strengthen your brand story.
8. Tell the story of your growth
The Healing Consultant was started after personal tragedy.
Founder, Varnar Spencer uses images to show her personal and business growth.
Your brand story is always evolving, and your photography should reflect that. Don’t be afraid to document and share the growth of your business. Whether it’s a new product launch, a rebranding effort, or the expansion of your team, these milestones are part of your story and worth sharing. Regularly updating your brand photos keeps your audience engaged and gives them insight into your journey.
Understanding the power of your photos
Your brand story is unique, and brand photography is one of the most powerful tools you have to tell it.
When you use photos to showcase your values, highlight the human side of your business, and share your journey with your audience, you create a brand that people can connect with on a deeper level.
So, the next time you plan a brand shoot, think about the story you want to tell.
Your photos are more than just images—they’re the visual heartbeat of your brand.
All photos by Amy Crosby.
CONTRIBUTOR
Amy Crosby
Amy Crosby is a professional brand photographer based in Western Massachusetts and serving New England. Amy specializes in personal branding and product photography. From her studio in West Springfield, MA, Amy brings her unique background as a social worker to help her clients look and feel confident in front of the camera. Her main mission is to help entrepreneurs and small business owners grow their brands and achieve success with impactful, professional images that tell their story.
