When it comes to professional photography, you’ve probably heard the terms headshot and brand photography used interchangeably. But they’re not the same! Headshots vs. Brand Photos: Which one do you need? If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, creative, executive, or any professional, knowing the differences can help you choose the right type of session for you. Let’s break it down.

What is a Headshot?

A headshot is a professional portrait—a clean, well-lit image focusing on your face, typically cropped from the chest up. These images are ideal for:

✔️ LinkedIn profiles

✔️ Corporate websites & team bios

✔️ Speaking engagements & press features

✔️ Business cards & email signatures

It makes a strong first impression in a professional setting. It’s great if you want to be seen as polished, credible, and approachable—but it’s just one image.

Who needs a headshot?

• Corporate professionals

• Job seekers & executives

• Lawyers, doctors, and other industry experts

• Anyone who wants a professional online presence

If you just need a single image for business or networking purposes, a headshot is perfect.

What is Personal Brand Photography?

Brand photography goes beyond the headshot to tell your story. It’s a collection of images that showcase who you are, what you do, how you work, and whom you serve —helping you build a recognizable and relatable brand.

Unlike a headshot, brand photography includes:

✔️ Multiple outfits & locations

✔️ Lifestyle and behind-the-scenes shots

✔️ Images that highlight your personality, workspace, and process

✔️ Detail shots of your products, tools, services or branding elements

A Personal Brand Session is paramount for entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners who need more than just a polished profile photo.

These images make potential clients want to learn more about you and your brand and are used on websites, social media, sales pages, and all types of marketing materials.

Who needs personal brand photography?

• Entrepreneurs, coaches, and consultants

• Small business owners & service providers

• Creatives (artists, designers, authors, influencers)

• Anyone who needs a consistent, on-brand visual identity

So, if your business is built around YOU, then brand photography is the right investment for creating a strong, recognizable presence besides simplifying your marketing. And if you want to learn more about brand photography, get this free guide The Top 10 Photos Every Entrepreneur Must Have in their Arsenal.

How to Choose the Right Photography for You

✔️ If you’re a corporate professional or job seeker → A headshot is all you need.

✔️ If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative → A brand photography session will help showcase your personality and attract ideal clients.

 ✔️ If you’re both—a professional who is also building a personal brand → You might need a brand session that will include a few headshots.

Now that you know the difference between Headshots vs. Brand Photos, which one do you need? Whether you’re updating your business profile or building your personal brand, keep in touch, and I’ll get you covered 🙂

Xo,

Geise