When it comes to capturing an image to boost your business’s online presence, the choice between headshots or brand photography isn’t just about picking a style—it’s about marketing strategy. One is all about looking polished and professional, and the other? It’s about showing the real you behind the scenes of your business.
Your photo is often the first impression people have of you, especially on social media and your website. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn or planning a full brand shoot for a website refresh, knowing the difference helps you choose the right session for your business.
Headshots Are Perfect For A Professional Image
Headshots are all about professionalism. They’re tight, focused portraits—usually just head and shoulders—that create a clean, consistent image of you or your team. They’re perfect for LinkedIn profiles, company bios on your website, business cards, and advertising (think real estate).
Headshot sessions are usually short and sweet (about 15 to 45 minutes), and when done in a studio, you can take advantage of backdrops and lighting that make you look polished without being overly posed. If you’re getting team photos, using the same photographer and studio ensures everything looks cohesive and on-brand.
What Makes Brand Photography Different?
Brand photography is more about storytelling. It’s not just about what you look like—it’s about what you do, how you do it, and what makes your business special. These sessions often include shots of you working, interacting with clients, or simply being in your element.
They’re longer (usually 2–3 hours or more) and can involve different outfits, locations, and props. Shooting in a studio with a variety of backdrop and furniture options gives you the flexibility to create different moods—professional, creative, relaxed, or bold—all within one session.
This is especially powerful for entrepreneurs and small businesses where you are the face of your brand. It’s a chance to build trust, show off your personality, and create a library of content you can use across social media, websites, and marketing materials.
Headshots or Brand Photography or Both?
Headshots and brand photography serve different—but equally important—purposes. A strong headshot helps people recognize and remember you. Brand photos help them connect with your story and feel confident choosing you. If you’re booking a session with a photographer, you can save money and time if you cover both at once so you have a library of shots for your social media posts or future website updates.
If you’re looking to refresh your online presence or build a stronger brand image, working with a professional photographer in a well-equipped studio can make all the difference. From clean backdrops to lifestyle-inspired props, a studio setting gives you total creative control without the unpredictability of shooting on location.
How Do You Know When It’s Time for New Photos?
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to update your headshots or brand photography, here’s the quick test: do your current photos still feel like you? If they don’t match where you’re at in your career, business, or even your personal style, it’s probably time for a refresh.
For headshots, every two years is a good rule of thumb—especially if your look or role has changed. That selfie from three jobs ago or the one with a totally different haircut? Probably not cutting it any more.
Brand photography is a bit more fluid. If your business has grown, your offerings have shifted, or your marketing just feels stale, new visuals can make a huge impact. A website refresh, new campaign, or dip in social media engagement are all solid signs that it’s time to update your content library.
The bottom line? If your photos don’t feel current or true to who you are and what you’re doing now, it’s time to schedule a new shoot.
Whether You Need Headshots or Brand Photography, 3SIXTY Marketing Solutions Can Make You, And Your Business, Look Good
At 3SIXTY Marketing Solutions, we offer both professional headshots or brand photography sessions in our customizable studio space. Whether you need a quick profile refresh or a full brand shoot, we’ll help you create images that reflect who you are and what your business is all about.
Ready to stand out with visuals that do the talking? Let’s make it happen. Book a session at our studio and show the world your best side. Give us a call at 647-250-1494 or book your free consultation today.
