Leveling Up with Holly: A Strategic, Soulful Brand Session

When your client is also a dear friend and total powerhouse, something incredible tends to happen. Holly, founder of Ladies Level Up, is building something truly special: a space where smart, ambitious women can grow, connect, and evolve as leaders without losing their humanity in the process.

Holly came to her brand session with clarity, confidence, and a big vision: to visually communicate the multidimensional energy of her brand. Together, we mapped out a creative strategy that would bring her story to life in a way that felt polished, real, and unmistakably her.

A Visual Language for Soulful Leadership

The day unfolded in distinct phases, each one telling a chapter of Holly's story:

• The Feminine Executive: Structured blazers, clean lines, and that effortless look of "I run the meeting and bring the calm." We captured her in motion, mid-laugh, grounded and strong.

• The Visionary Speaker: With her pink mic in hand and a glint in her eye, Holly showed up as the engaging, confident communicator she is. Think TED Talk energy with a touch of joyful rebellion.

• The Empowerment Coach: These images were all about connection. Holly in cozy textures, scribbling notes and brainstorming. The coach who makes you feel seen, not sold to.

• Your Wise Fun Bestie: Here came the sparkle. Think fuzzy slippers, lipstick laughs, and laptop hustle. This was the side of Holly that says, "You can be brilliant and wear a tiara."

• The Celebratory Woman: We ended with confetti, champagne, and the kind of confidence that only comes from doing work that aligns deeply with who you are.

Every outfit, setting, and expression was designed to reflect not just what Holly does, but who she is. These images will now live across her website, social platforms, digital products, and speaking materials. They build consistency and trust while still feeling human and approachable.

Hair and makeup ahead of time by Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry brought the confidence and allowed her true beauty to take center stage.

Strategic and Soulful

This shoot was about more than pretty pictures. It was a brand alignment session. Holly's audience, ambitious women navigating growth, pivots, and reinvention, will see themselves in these images. Her clients want to follow a leader who is grounded in both intuition and strategy. These photos invite them in.

If you're a thought leader, coach, or creative entrepreneur looking to tell your brand story in a more authentic and cohesive way, reach out. Let's create a session that not only looks like you, but feels like you.

Check out more here:
IG: Ladies Level Up, Holly Wiggins

The Top 5 Mistakes People Make Before Their Branding Shoot (and How to Avoid Them)

So you finally booked your branding session... amazing! But now you're wondering, "What do I do to actually get ready?" You're not alone. Prepping for a branding session can feel like a lot, especially when you're not sure where to start. Here are five common mistakes people make before their shoot and how to make sure you avoid them.

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Plan Your Wardrobe

We've all done it. Thrown something together the night before and hoped for the best. But your branding photos are a visual representation of your business, and that means your outfit matters. Give yourself time to plan, try things on, and even get input. Your wardrobe should reflect your brand personality and make you feel like the best version of yourself.

We'll also talk through this extensively during the planning process, and I'll offer tips and guidance based on your brand so you're not doing this alone.

How to avoid it: Start early. Lay out your outfits a week in advance and make sure everything fits, feels good, and photographs well. Bonus tip: bring a backup outfit or layers in case something doesn't feel right day-of.

2. Not Thinking Through Location (or Just Picking Somewhere "Pretty")

Yes, aesthetics are important. But a location should be more than just "cute." It should support your brand message. Are you more modern and polished? Outdoorsy and grounded? Bright and creative? The environment should align with your vibe.

How to avoid it: Think about where your clients find you and how they experience your brand. Choose a space that helps tell that story, whether it's your workspace, a coffee shop you love, or a studio that offers versatility.

3. Showing Up Without a Clear Goal

It might sound obvious, but walking into your session without knowing what you want to walk away with can lead to photos that miss the mark. Are you updating your website? Creating a social media library? Launching something new? The clearer you are, the more strategic your session can be. We’ll work through all of this in the pre-session process, and these details will be reflected in your personalized Creative Guide so you’ll never feel unprepared or uncertain.

How to avoid it: Talk with me about your goals. As your photographer, I'm here to help you think through what you need and how to best bring it to life. Share what platforms you use most, what you need images for, and what kind of content you want to create. This helps shape the shot list and overall flow.

4. Skipping Hair, Makeup, or Grooming

You don’t need to look like someone else, but you do want to feel confident and put together. Sometimes that means a professional stylist. Other times it means just giving yourself enough time to prep.

I partner with a talented hair and makeup artist, Valerie Hammer Makeup Artistry, who understands exactly how to make you look and feel your best specifically for photos. Makeup for photography is different than everyday makeup, and Val knows how to enhance your features in a way that translates beautifully on camera.

How to avoid it: Think about what makes you feel confident in daily life and mirror that for the shoot. Whether it’s a blowout, a fresh shave, or clean nails, the small stuff makes a big impact.

5. Trying to Do It All Alone

Branding photography isn't just about snapping a few nice photos. It's about telling a story. And stories are easier to tell when you're not doing everything solo. From shot planning to styling, a little support goes a long way.

How to avoid it: Lean on me throughout the process. Ask questions, share ideas, and let's collaborate on how to bring your brand to life through visuals. I’m here to guide you every step of the way—from shot planning to styling—to make sure we’re telling your story in the most authentic and strategic way. If it’s helpful, we can also bring in additional support like a brand strategist, stylist, or makeup artist.

Getting branding photos taken is a big step in putting yourself and your business out there. When you take the time to plan and avoid these common missteps, you set yourself up for images that don’t just look good, but actually feel like you.

10 Brand Photo Ideas That Go Way Beyond the Headshot

Sure, a polished headshot has its place. But branding photography is about so much more than a photo of you smiling at the camera. It’s your visual voice. It tells your story before someone even reads your bio. If you want to build a brand that’s recognizable, relatable, and real, you need imagery that goes deeper.

Here are 10 creative branding photo ideas to bring your story to life:

1. Your Workspace in Action

Whether it’s your studio, your kitchen counter, or your favorite coffee shop corner, show us where the magic happens. People love getting a behind-the-scenes look at your everyday world.

2. Tools of Your Trade

Include the props and tools you use daily—laptop, notebooks, camera, tablet, candles, products—whatever represents your workflow. These add personality and context to your images.

3. Movement + Candid Moments

Branding doesn’t mean stiff. Laugh. Walk. Type. Sip. Dance. Interact. The real you, in motion, tells a much more compelling story than just standing and smiling.

4. Client or Team Interactions

Working with a client? Meeting with a partner? These storytelling moments show what it feels like to work with you—hello, trust-building!

5. Brand Colors and Patterns

Weave your brand palette into your wardrobe, backdrop, or props. Subtle pops of brand color help create a cohesive visual vibe across all platforms.

6. Personality Shots

You being you. Quirky, silly, serene, thoughtful, bold—lean into your personality. It builds connection way faster than perfection ever will.

7. Flatlays or Styled Scenes

Create branded scenes with your favorite things: coffee mugs, books, florals, notebooks, your products, packaging, or seasonal accents. These make great filler images for social and web.

8. Creative Portraits in Unexpected Places

Skip the office setting. Think murals, alleyways, gardens, rooftops. Choosing a location that reflects your vibe gives your portraits a unique edge.

9. Lifestyle Content for Social Media

Go beyond your "business face" and capture more lifestyle elements that reflect your brand values: family, nature walks, hobbies, travel, pets—whatever your audience can connect to.

10. Your Signature Brand Rituals

Do you journal every morning? Light a candle before a client call? Celebrate launches with cake? These little habits are so personal and totally photo-worthy.

Final Thoughts:

Your brand is multi-faceted, and your photography should be too. The goal isn’t just to look good; it’s to look like you. When your photos reflect your real energy, people instantly feel more connected, and connection builds trust.

So the next time you prep for a branding session, skip the stiff poses and think about the story you want to tell. Because your audience doesn’t just want to know what you do—they want to know who you are.

Need help capturing your brand story in photos? Let’s connect and create something beautiful and authentically YOU.

You’re More Than a Headshot: What Branding Photography Really Captures

Let’s get this out of the way: yes, you probably need an updated headshot. But no, that’s not all branding photography is about.

Branding photos are about connection. They’re about story. And most importantly, they’re about helping your dream clients feel like they know, like, and trust you. (even if they never met you)

You Are the Face of Your Brand

Whether you're a service provider, coach, creative, or small business owner, people want to see you. The real you. Not just a stiff smile in front of a white backdrop, but the version of you that shows up for your clients. Branding photos let you step into that role with confidence.

More Than a Smile: Your Personality Matters

The goal isn’t to look like everyone else in your industry. The goal is to look like yourself so the right people say: "Ooh, I want to work with her." Branding photography captures your quirks, your energy, your vibe; so that the images don’t just look nice, they feel like you.

Context Is Everything

A great headshot says, "Here I am." Branding photography says, "Here’s what I do, how I do it, and why it matters." We shoot in environments that tell your story- your workspace, a favorite coffee shop, a location that resonates with your brand style- and include props, outfits, and poses that speak to your daily life and deeper mission.

Photos That Work as Hard as You Do

These aren’t just pretty pictures to sprinkle on your about page. Branding photos are strategic tools you can use across your entire marketing ecosystem: Instagram, newsletters, lead magnets, service pages, launch graphics, even your Zoom profile pic.

Your Brand Is Personal—Your Photos Should Be Too

If your current visuals don’t fully reflect who you are and what you do, it might be time for an upgrade. Think of your branding session as a confidence booster, a clarity moment, and a creative celebration all in one.

Ready to go beyond the headshot? Let’s create brand imagery that actually tells your story.

DIY Headshots vs. Professional Branding Photography: Why the Difference Matters

We’ve all been there—scrolling through our phone’s camera roll, cropping a halfway decent selfie and slapping it into a bio or website “About” page. And hey, when you’re just starting out or updating things on the fly, it works. Kind of.

If you’re building a brand, growing a business, or trying to attract the right clients, your visuals matter. A lot.

Here’s why that DIY photo might be holding you back—and what professional branding photography brings to the table.

1. First Impressions Are (Still) Everything

When someone lands on your website or scrolls past your profile, they make a snap judgment—and visuals play a huge role. A grainy selfie or random crop from a friend’s wedding might not be sending the message you think it is.

Professional branding photography isn’t just “pretty pictures”—it’s about showing up intentionally and creating a strong, cohesive first impression that reflects who you are and what you do.

2. DIY Can Look DIY (And That’s Not Always a Vibe)

Lighting, angle, background—those little things add up. A DIY photo might be fine for your Instagram stories, but on your website or LinkedIn? It can look out of place.

A professional session is more than just snapping a few photos. It’s about making sure your images match your brand’s tone, feel consistent across platforms, and give off the kind of polished energy that says, “Yep, I take this seriously.”

3. Branding Photography Tells a Bigger Story

A headshot is just one small piece of the puzzle. Your brand needs visuals that tell the full story—what you do, how you do it, and why people should care.

Professional branding photography includes lifestyle images, detail shots, behind-the-scenes moments, and personality-driven portraits that bring your business to life. It's the difference between “here’s my face” and “here’s my brand.”

4. You Get a Whole Library of Content (Not Just One Shot)

When you hire a pro, you walk away with a full gallery of images you can use everywhere—your website, newsletters, social posts, email signature, course materials… you name it.

It’s not just about having one nice headshot. It’s about having a whole collection that fits your content and evolves with your business.

5. Confidence Boost (Yes, It’s a Thing)

There’s something powerful about seeing yourself in photos that actually feel like you—and look professional. It’s affirming. You feel more confident showing up online. And guess what? That confidence is contagious.

Clients notice. Audiences engage. You show up more fully when you’re proud of your visuals.

Is It Time to Upgrade Your Visuals?

If your current photo feels a little “meh” or you’re tired of cropping yourself out of group pics (been there!), maybe it’s time to level up.

Professional branding photography isn’t about being fancy—it’s about being intentional. It’s about telling your story with clarity and confidence.

And the next time someone lands on your site or profile? They’ll feel that difference.

Let’s create images that finally feel like you—and work just as hard as you do.

5 Things You Didn't Know You Needed in Your Brand Photo Library

When most people think of brand photography, their minds jump straight to the classic headshot. And sure, that photo of you looking polished and professional is great—but it’s just the beginning.

If you want visuals that work—images that not only look good but also tell your story and connect with your audience—you need more than just a pretty portrait. Here are 5 types of photos you may not have thought about, but absolutely need in your branding photo library:

1. Hands at Work

There’s something incredibly authentic about showing the process behind what you do. Whether it’s typing on your laptop, sketching ideas, mixing ingredients, or writing in a notebook, these images bring your story to life. They give your audience a behind-the-scenes look and say, “Hey, I’m in the thick of it, just like you.”

These are gold for website banners, sales pages, and reels. They’re also perfect for reinforcing the action side of your business—not just the polished results.

2. Tools of Your Trade

Props aren’t just “extras”—they’re part of the story. Including items that represent your work adds depth and personality to your photos. This could be anything from your favorite camera or microphone, to your planner, your product, or even your morning latte.

When done right, these details can create connection points for your audience. They recognize a part of themselves in the way you work, and that builds trust.

3. Personality-Filled Portraits (Not Just Smiles!)

Yes, we’ll get the smiling-at-the-camera shots. But don’t forget the other expressions—joy, curiosity, calm, boldness. Different moods give you range in your content. Maybe it’s a power pose. A moment of reflection. A laughing-out-loud frame.

When you’re showing up across multiple platforms, having images that match your message and your mood is essential. Let’s capture the full spectrum of YOU.

4. Movement and Interaction

Still images can have motion, too. Think walking confidently through a city street, sipping coffee mid-conversation, or twirling in a flowy dress. These types of photos create visual interest and tell dynamic stories.

They also add energy to your website and socials—great for grabbing attention in a scroll-happy world.

5. Space and Setting Shots

This one’s often overlooked, but so useful! Wide shots of your workspace, desk setup, or the environment around you (even if it’s styled just for the shoot) give your audience context. It’s not just about where you are—it’s about how you work and what your brand feels like.

Plus, these make amazing background images, header images, or content buffers when you want to switch things up.

Your Brand Photo Library Should Work for You

The more variety and intentionality you have in your photo collection, the more you’ll be able to use them to tell your story, market your offers, and connect with your audience.

So the next time you're planning a branding shoot, don’t just think "headshot." Think library. Let’s fill it with images that make your brand come alive.

Want help building a photo library that’s personal, purposeful, and packed with personality? Let’s chat about your next branding session!

Why Custom Photography Beats Stock Images for Your Brand

First Impressions Matter

Your brand’s visuals are often the first thing potential clients notice about you. Whether it’s your website, social media, or marketing materials, the images you use play a crucial role in shaping perceptions. While stock photos might seem like a convenient solution, they often fall short in delivering a personalized and impactful brand presence. Here’s why investing in custom branding photography is a smarter choice.

1. Authenticity Builds Trust

Stock photos are generic by nature. They’re designed to appeal to a broad audience, which means they lack the personal touch that makes your brand unique. Custom branding photos, on the other hand, showcase YOU—your personality, your work environment, your team, and your real clients. This authenticity fosters trust and helps potential customers connect with your brand on a deeper level.

2. Consistency in Brand Identity

Your brand has a specific color palette, tone, and personality. Stock photos often feel disjointed because they come from different sources with varying styles. Custom photography ensures a cohesive look across all your platforms, reinforcing your brand identity and making your business instantly recognizable.

3. Stand Out From the Competition

Chances are, your competitors are using stock photos too—sometimes even the exact same ones. A unique brand requires unique visuals. Custom branding photography guarantees that your images are one-of-a-kind, setting you apart in a crowded market and making your brand memorable.

4. More Engagement & Connection

People are naturally drawn to real, relatable content. When potential clients see real images of you and your team, they feel a connection that stock photos simply can’t create. This leads to higher engagement on social media, better conversion rates, and stronger customer relationships.

5. Tailored to Your Business Needs

Stock photos rarely align perfectly with your brand message. They might be close, but there’s always something “off.” Custom branding photography is tailored specifically to your needs, ensuring that every image aligns with your message, audience, and marketing goals.

6. Legal Peace of Mind

Using stock photos comes with licensing restrictions, and it’s easy to accidentally violate copyright terms. With custom branding photos, you own the images outright, giving you full control over how and where they’re used without any legal concerns.

7. Versatility & Longevity

A single branding session provides a library of high-quality images that can be used across multiple platforms—your website, social media, email campaigns, press features, and more. Unlike stock photos that might feel outdated or overused, custom branding photos remain relevant and adaptable to your evolving brand.

Invest in Your Brand’s Visual Story

Your brand deserves more than generic imagery. Custom branding photography isn’t just about looking professional—it’s about telling your unique story, building trust, and creating a lasting impression. Ready to elevate your brand with visuals that truly represent you? Let’s chat about how custom branding photography can take your business to the next level!