Do I need professional images for my business's website and social media?

I often see small businesses wrestling with this question. Think about how much time you spend online scrolling through options—looking for the perfect restaurant for dinner, the best car to buy, a reliable electrician, or a top-notch hair salon. If this isn’t something you personally do, consider your ideal client’s habits. How do they research and choose the professionals they hire or the products they purchase?

A few more questions to ask yourself:

As you are scrolling online what images attract you the most?

What images make you feel confident in the person or company that you are thinking of hiring?

Do you judge a company or product based on the images you see online?

What do you think when you see images that are obviously not professional?

Whether we want to admit it or not, our brains are processing and judging things all the time. When we realize that our potential clients are doing the same thing it makes the question of whether or not to invest in professional images a little easier to answer, but if you still need more reasons, keep reading:)

What are the benefits of having professionally photographed images for my business’s website and social media?

Showcase the people and values that set your business apart - In today’s visual world, professional photography is essential to telling your company’s story. High-quality headshots, team portraits, and branding images create visuals that go beyond words, creating an immediate and lasting impression of professionalism and trust.

Every image you share reflects your business - From your website and press releases to LinkedIn, newsletters, and marketing materials, professional photographs ensure your brand is represented at its best.

Instill confidence and enhances your company’s reputation - Beautiful, polished images help to reinforce the quality of the services and or products you provide.

Potential clients will scroll past subpar visuals - Let your images work as hard as you do to communicate your expertise and value to the world.

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These images are from a session with a local physician, Shayne Taylor. She contacted me before starting her own practice Blue Canyon Primary Care! It was important to her that we capture her friendly and welcoming disposition as well as her passion and most importantly competency in her field. We had numerous phone conversations before the actual session where we discussed clothing and locations for the session as well as what she wanted the images to say about her.

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Ready to showcase the your brand?

Let’s connect and create images that allow you and your company to stand out!

Stepping outside of my comfort zone

While on a recent trip to England, I found myself in a very old pub in Glastonbury called The George and Pilgrims. As I sat there with the group I was traveling with, in walked this woman with such an incredible energy about her. She sat in the front window, and the light coming in kept catching my eye. I knew I would regret it if I didn't capture what I was seeing, so I did the thing that I never do - I went up to a complete stranger with my camera and asked if I could take her portrait. She smiled, was flattered, and said YES! I didn't give her much direction, as I wanted the portrait to be natural.

I am so glad I stepped outside of my comfort zone. I am so glad I met this wonderful woman. One thing that was really interesting was in person, I did not see the tarot cards in her hat. Even when taking the pictures and when I was talking to her. It wasn’t until I was editing the images that I noticed them. Did the cards just magically appear?l! Another interesting thing she told me that it was her birthday in just a few days and she would be staying in a haunted room at the inn to celebrate! The whole experience was so magical!

One of the true joys of traveling is the people you meet along the way. I told myself when I got home that I would continue to photograph strangers in cafes. I am putting this out publicly so I actually do it! So look out, I may see you at a local spot soon 😊

I also have to thank Karen Score from Grace in Nature LLC for inviting me to document her amazing retreats. If not for Karen, I would never have experienced this very memorable moment.

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.

For some reason this proverb has really stuck in my head and I find myself thinking about it often. Recently, I realized that this holds true for portraits of ourselves, our families and our friends

We often look back and wish we’d preserved certain stages of our lives, our careers, or our families and friends. If you’ve ever thought, ‘I should have done this sooner,’ consider this your sign to start now. Whether it’s a personal portrait, a professional headshot, or a branding session, today is the perfect time to create images you’ll be grateful to have tomorrow.

Life moves fast, and we often wish we’d paused to capture those special moments along the way. Personal portraits offer a chance to freeze time, to look back and remember who you are today. It’s never too late to start preserving your story—let’s create images that celebrate you, right here, right now.

I recently sent a picture to my son of a portrait I took of him when he was a year old dressed up for Halloween. He had so many questions about the picture and when it was taken. This is a child that never really has a lot to say, but seeing that image of himself from so long ago felt important. It made me realize that I need to make sure that we continue to take the annual pictures even if he fights me about it right now and thinks it’s stupid, I want him to have something to look back on in 14 years from now.

Headshot vs. Personal Branding Session: Which One is Right for You?

When it comes to professional photography, everyone’s needs are unique. Your photos should reflect where you are and where you’re headed—whether you're building a personal connection through a headshot or telling the full story of your business with a personal branding session. Each has its purpose, so choose wisely!

Headshot Sessions

Headshots are perfect for professionals who need a polished image that speaks volumes at a glance. Whether it’s for LinkedIn, your resume, or your company’s website, your headshot is the first step in making an impression before you’ve even met someone. Think of it as your digital handshake—a visual introduction that says, “This is who I am, and I’m ready to connect.”

In our headshot sessions, you’ll come into the studio where we’ll work on capturing that perfect balance of approachability and professionalism. This is a close-up shot that focuses solely on you—no distractions, no fuss, just an authentic moment where your confidence shines through.

Headshots are ideal for anyone in a corporate setting, new business owners, actors, artists, models, or anyone looking to update their professional presence with a clean, crisp image.

If you’re someone who needs a straightforward photo for your business cards, LinkedIn profile, or website, a headshot is your go-to. It’s about creating that initial connection, showing people who you are, and making sure your face is remembered.

Personal Branding Sessions:

For those of you building a personal brand, running a business, or working in a creative space, a personal branding session is the way to go. This is about creating a visual story that reflects who you are, what you stand for, and what you offer to the world.

In a personal branding session, we’ll dive into your vision. Maybe that’s you in action—working at your favorite café, laughing with clients, or surrounded by the tools of your trade. We’ll incorporate meaningful props, wardrobe changes, and shoot in a location that feels right for you—be it in your studio, outdoors, or somewhere that reflects the heart of your business. Every detail is intentional and designed to highlight the personality behind your brand

If you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or creative looking to elevate your presence across social media, your website, or marketing materials, a personal branding session is your chance to show the world what makes you and your business unique.

This session is designed for those who want to build connection and trust with their audience by giving them a glimpse into the person behind the brand.

FINDING YOUR FIT:

As you see, this is all about recognizing which session aligns with where you are in your journey.

If you're in need of a clean, professional image to introduce yourself to the world—whether that’s for your corporate job or your growing business—a headshot gives you that polished presence. It’s about simplicity and connection in one image.

But if you’re ready to share more, if you want your audience to see your process, understand your passion, and connect with the full spectrum of your brand, then a personal branding session is where you’ll find the most value. This is for those who want to show not just their face, but the energy and story behind their work.

Whatever your needs, we’ll work together to create photos that capture your light and tell your story!

Having your headshot taken can feel similar to going to the dentist...

I often think that having your headshot taken can feel similar to going to the dentist... I know this sounds ridiculous, but hear me out. This all came to me one day when I was at the dentist. I was using all of my yoga training to try to stay relaxed when I realized that my legs were completely tense and my hands were gripping the chair. I would relax them and then moments later it would happen again. It was then that I made the connection to what I saw happening for my clients in sessions.

Here are some other similarities I realized while they cleaned my teeth:

• You know you need to do it, but you don't want to do it: It's one of those necessities for anyone serious about their professional image.

• It's good for you (your health and the health of your business): Just like dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining your overall health, a crisp, professional headshot is key to maintaining a healthy business image.

• You feel anxious beforehand: It’s completely normal to feel a bit jittery before stepping in front of the camera.

• You feel awkward/uncomfortable: I often talk to my clients throughout their sessions and I notice that in the beginning, they don’t know if they should answer my questions or keep smiling. I talk a lot to my clients because I want to get their natural expressions and I want them to feel at ease. After we get into the rhythm of the session they relax and realize they can talk and laugh throughout the session I have no idea why the dentist asks you questions when their hands are in your mouth

• You feel vulnerable: It takes vulnerability and strength to stand in front of a camera and reveal a part of yourself to the professional world.

So, What’s Different…

• You actually have fun! Our sessions are relaxed and enjoyable, filled with light-hearted moments.

• You leave feeling relaxed and also more confident: After seeing how great you look, you’ll feel ready to tackle any challenge.

• You have beautiful images that you are proud to share out in the world: A headshot that truly represents you at your best.

• You can’t wait to come back, and next time you might even bring a family member or a friend! It’s an experience worth sharing.

Ready to give your professional presence a boost?

Book your headshot session today and discover how fun and impactful it can be!