Digital communication, like websites and social media, demand good images. And as a small business owner, a professional headshot is an important part of your branding. People want to know who they’ll be working with, and a headshot says a lot about you to prospective customers.
Why do you need a headshot?
Putting the faces of your employees on your company website can help to establish a personal presence behind the business. People like to build relationships, and feel comfortable putting trust in people they feel they know.
Studies show that the “Meet the Team” or “About Us” pages are actually some of the most visited website pages.
So, professional headshots of your staff, yourself, and your working environment can help convey your company culture and values. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words.
Why are professional headshots so important?
Professional vs amateur
If you’re trying to establish your brand, either personally or professionally, a poorly taken amateur photo or selfie does not convey the right message. As you are a specialist in your profession, so too is a photographer.
A professional photographer will have all the necessary equipment, experience, and knowledge you need to deliver the results you want. They’ll know about the best lighting and the right composition of shots, the optimal angles and poses all of which will make you look your best, and ultimately sell your brand.
Brand builders
The image you want to present will be unique to your profession. As many people judge books by their covers and first impressions really do count, you want to ensure you capture the right balance of professionalism, approachability, and trustworthiness using images alone. Hiring a professional ensures you get the message right.
Value for money
Professional headshots can be great value with multiple functions. If you’re the owner of a business, or simply attempting to cultivate your brand, you can choose different shots that are suitable for your LinkedIn profile, your website, or even business cards and other marketing material.
Getting the most out of your photoshoot
- You want to put your best face forward, so don’t be afraid to use a professional hairstylist or make-up artist for the occasion (around COVID-19 restrictions, of course). Dress to impress too in an outfit befitting your job but something that lets your personality shine through.
- Decide and discuss what you want your headshot to convey before meeting with your photographer; they can customise the photoshoot to your specifications so your message is communicated clearly and effectively. You can go over the details of what you want from your headshot, how you want to present yourself, and any special accommodations you may need.
- It will also help you know what to expect from the session, how your photographer works, and what their working style is, so there are no surprises on the day of the photoshoot.
Photographs by: Murray Clarke Corporate Photographer
Selection shows examples of full-body (left) and head & shoulders (right) on white backdrops, head & shoulders with natural background (centre) and a group shot (centre).
Marketing Square can help
If you know you’ll require photos as part of your marketing strategy, you’re in luck. One of the benefits of working with us is that we have an award-winning photographer in our network, who is happy to assist with your photography needs.
Based in Surrey and Sussex but covering London and the rest of the UK, Murray Clarke is a corporate photographer specialising in events and headshots.
