The Difference Between Headshots and Branding Photography

When you’re booking a photography session for your business, how do you know if you need a headshot vs. branding photography? Let’s demystify the differences between the two, as both types of photography serve a unique purpose.

First, headshot sessions are typically brief (most of my headshot sessions are less than 30 minutes long!), and, in turn, are offered at a lower price point (for individual headshots, I charge less than $300 and deliver a handful of images; for business teams, custom pricing is available). While some photographers may focus typically on the upper body, I like to have my headshot clients pose in a variety of ways, including full-body shots. Speaking of variety, I’m also open to gentlemen bringing along a blazer to throw on over their button-down shirt for some photos, or ladies bringing a second blouse for a quick outfit change. Headshot sessions deliver photos that are perfect for an updated social media profile picture, business cards, open house fliers, and other printed media.

The major difference between headshot sessions and branding photography, apart from the time and the investment, comes in the planning. Each MWP signature branding session begins with a consult call, during which we discuss your ideal client, your wishes and needs for the session, and how you plan to use your photos (for your website, a new product or service launch, social media marketing, and more). I also offer my branding clients assistance in location and prop sourcing, outfit selection and styling from trusted industry experts, and timeline and shot list planning.

Because of the increased production value of a branding photography session and my hands-on customer service throughout the planning and execution of the shoot, as well as in the editing process, scheduling these shoots at least 6-8 weeks in advance is crucial to allowing us time to plan the best session we can to meet your needs. These shoots, offered as both half-day and full-day options, typically generate at least 3 months worth of content for you to put to work on social media and beyond.

Ready to learn more about what we can accomplish together? Do you still need help knowing if you need a headshot vs. branding shoot? Inquire today to get on my calendar!

Hair and Makeup – Allee Makeup