Why Professional Photography Matters for Your Business
Professional photography is an investment in your success, whether you're building your LinkedIn profile, launching a real estate career, or establishing your personal brand as an entrepreneur. It builds instant credibility and trust, signaling that you're invested in your professional image.
What’s the difference between headshots and branding photography?
A headshot is a professional photo primarily focused on your face and upper body. It's designed to build instant credibility and trust, signaling your investment in your professional image. Headshots are ideal for platforms like LinkedIn or a quick refresh of your professional photo.
Branding photography goes beyond a simple headshot to offer comprehensive visual storytelling. It aims to capture the essence of you and your business. A branding photoshoot typically includes multiple professional headshots, lifestyle images of you working, detailed shots of your workspace, products, or tools, and content ready for various marketing materials like websites, social media, and email campaigns. It's a more extensive investment designed to provide content for an extended period, often two to three years.
How much do professional headshots typically cost?
Pricing varies based on location, photographer experience, and what's included.
Basic headshots ($150-$300) usually includes one to two looks, minimal retouching, digital files. Ideal for a fresh LinkedIn photo.
Mid-range sessions ($300-$900) includes multiple looks, professional retouching, more time, greater variety. This is often the sweet spot for most professionals.
Premium packages ($1,00-$3000+)
includes extensive wardrobe changes, multiple locations, and a full branding suite for diverse marketing needs.
*Real estate agents and entrepreneurs often invest in the mid-to-premium range for diverse content for websites, social media, and marketing materials.
What should women wear for their headshots?
Jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, and ruby are fantastic choices because they add dimension and richness to your photos. Classic neutrals such as navy, gray, and cream create a timeless look that won't feel dated in a few years. And if you've established brand colors for your Lafayette or Acadiana business, definitely incorporate those into your wardrobe choices.
You'll want to avoid busy patterns that can be distracting, pure white or stark black that can be harsh on camera, sleeveless tops if you're going for a timeless look, and overly trendy pieces that might not age well. Instead, bring three to four outfit options to your session, choose flattering necklines like V-necks or scoops, ensure everything fits properly, and add personality with subtle jewelry.
What are some effective headshot poses for women?
The goal is to look natural, confident, and approachable.
Start by positioning yourself at a slight angle to the camera rather than straight on. Roll your shoulders back and down to create good posture without looking stiff. Place your weight on your back foot, which naturally creates a more flattering stance. Then extend your chin slightly forward and down—photographers often call this the "turtle" technique, and it helps define your jawline. Finally, choose either a genuine smile or a confident closed-lip expression, depending on what feels most authentic to you and your brand.
Body language matters too. For traditional headshots, keep your hands out of frame to maintain focus on your face. For more casual branding photos, place your hands naturally—perhaps holding a coffee cup or resting them on your workspace. Maintain a relaxed but engaged expression, and focus your eyes either directly at the camera or slightly off to the side for a more candid feel.
A skilled photographer will guide you through all of this, but knowing a few go-to angles helps build your confidence during the session.
Is a professional headshot necessary for LinkedIn?
Absolutely. Profiles with professional photos receive significantly more profile views and connection requests. In competitive industries like real estate or entrepreneurship, a professional headshot is essential for your business.
How often should I update my headshot?
Update your headshot every two to three years as a baseline. Update sooner if your appearance has significantly changed, you've transitioned industries, or you're launching a new business. Entrepreneurs and real estate professionals may need more frequent updates for fresh marketing content.
What makes real estate headshots different?
Real estate is a trust-based business, and your headshots need to convey warmth and approachability alongside professionalism. A friendly expression is often more effective than a stern corporate look. Consider including environmental shots in front of local landmarks or distinctive properties. Ensure you have multiple images for MLS listings, website headers, social media, business cards, and yard signs.
Why might someone prefer a female photographer for headshots?
Many women prefer female photographers because they often bring an intuitive understanding of flattering angles, create comfortable posing environments, and have deep experience with women's professional styling needs.
What is a branding photoshoot for women entrepreneurs?
A branding photoshoot for women entrepreneurs goes beyond a simple headshot—it's comprehensive visual storytelling that captures the essence of you and your business. This is especially valuable for Louisiana business owners who want to create a cohesive, professional presence across all their marketing channels.
Your session will included multiple professional headshots, lifestyle images of you working, detailed shots of your workspace/products/tools, and content ready for websites, social media, email campaigns, and marketing materials.
To get the most from your branding session, start by definying your brand identity and colors, plan four to six outfit changes, consider meaningful locations, and bring props that represent your work or values.
These images can provide content for two to three years, making them a highly efficient marketing investment for your Louisiana business.
How can I maximize the return on investment for professional photography?
Once you've invested in professional photography, you want to get the most value possible from those images. Use them everywhere: LinkedIn, your website, Instagram, Facebook, email signatures, speaker bios, media kits, proposals, and any other platform where your face represents your brand across Lafayette, Acadiana, and beyond.