what is personal branding photography and why do i need it?

Written By Deanna Walker

Char from Char Makeup

Oh hey there!

Let’s chat about personal branding photography, shall we? You might be wondering what all the fuss is about, but trust me, it’s more than just getting a few nice headshots for your LinkedIn profile. And yes - I may be a liiiiittle bit biased, but seriously, in today’s age, personal branding photography is all about showing the world who you are and what your brand stands for – and doing it in a way that feels totally you.


So tell me - what is personal branding photography?

Glad you asked! It’s not just a fancy term for business headshots - this is a question I get asked quite a bit. Headshots is like the chapter, but personal branding photography is like the novel. 

Personal branding photography is about creating a visual story that represents you, your vibe, and your brand. Whether you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur, these photos go beyond just a happy, professional headshot. They capture your personality, your workspace, your products – everything that makes your brand unique. They tell your story, they dive into your world behind the business and brand. 


Do I need personal branding photos?

In a place as buzzing with talent as Wellington, you’ve got to stand out. And guess what? Your personal brand is what makes you different from everyone else in your field - because even if their business is kinda similar, no one is exactly you. 

High-quality, authentic images help people get a sense of who you are before they even meet you. It’s all about building trust, showing off your style, and making that all-important first impression. It gives your potential clients a peek behind the scenes, a sample of your personality, and it makes them feel like they know you - making it so much easier when you finally meet. 


How do personal branding photos help my business?

Let’s be real – people do business with people they like and trust. If you’re choosing between two similar brands with similar pricing, something needs to stand out to grab your attention - and if you feel connected to the person you’re buying from, they’re going to be the winner. When you’ve got photos that genuinely reflect who you are, it helps potential clients connect with you on a personal level. They see the person behind the brand, and that’s a powerful thing. Whether it’s on your website, social media, or even in your email signature, these images work hard to communicate your message and bring in those dream clients.


And on that note - how can I use my personal branding images?

The limit does not exist! They’re awesome for updating your website, popping on your socials, having as filler imagery, using on your marketing materials… however you need. I always try and capture a range of imagery that tells your story without it all being smiling images of your face (although those are important too!) - but having a broader range of images that represents your brand gives you more opportunities to use your images, without it feeling like you’re just plastering your face everywhere! 


Looking for a personal branding photographer in Wellington?

If you’re in the Wellington region and looking to boost your brand’s visual presence, I’m here to help. As a Wellington photographer who specialises in personal branding, I’m all about super relaxed, super fun photoshoots (no stiff poses or forced smiles here – just real, relaxed images that tell your story). If you’re ready to book in - let’s chat. We’ll create something amazing together, and you’ll have a collection of images that not only look great but also feel totally and authentically you.

Check out more personal branding images here or pop on over to our Instagram!




Deanna Walker