11 Ways to Use Your Brand Photos

National Photography Month is the perfect time to reflect on the power of a great photo and how it shapes your brand. I am so excited to share 11 ways that you can use your brand photos to show off who you really are!

Candid and Conversational Poses

Authenticity is key. Gone are the days of stiff, posed, and overly formal photos. Instead, think about creating candid moments that capture your real self. Whether you’re having a conversation with a client, answering an email, or simply looking out the window, these shots help tell your story naturally.

Bring a friend or team member along to interact with you during the shoot. I’ve even had clients FaceTime their clients for real interactions!

Showcasing Your Tools of the Trade

These could include your camera, laptop, design tools, or other items that tie into your business. Getting different angles working on your computer is always fun! Front view, side view and back screen view are my top faves! I also think it’s amazing when we can capture what it looks like when you’re really working, so the client can see how you do what you do!

Pose while holding or interacting with these items, as if you’re caught in action. This adds depth to your branding and demonstrates what makes your business unique.

Movement-Based Poses

Motion brings life to your branding images. These could be walking, adjusting your workspace, or even turning to smile at the camera while doing something that feels natural to you.

Move while your photographer captures the moment. Try a “walk-and-talk” shot!

Playful & Creative Poses

Don’t shy away from injecting a little personality into your photos. Whether it’s playful hand gestures, a dramatic laugh, or a quirky prop, showing a lighter side can make your photos feel approachable and fun.

If your business has a playful side, consider incorporating props that speak to your industry or personality. Try tossing a book in the air or using a product in a fun, creative way. Remember your clients wanna get to know you, so be sure to have fun and share your personality. Even if it’s goofy dances and moves like me. It’s who you are and people will love it!

Flat Lays & Detail Shots

Use flat lays and detail shots to highlight products, workspaces and bonus-shots to use when you need a slightly more generic (but personalized) photo for posts etc. A well-styled flat lay or detail shot gives your customers an insight to your work!

Showcase your tools, books, or daily essentials in a neatly organized shot. If you’re a product-based business, use flat lays to show off your items.

The Power of Hands

Hands are an incredibly powerful tool in branding photography. Whether you’re arranging products, writing, or holding a meaningful item, hands tell a story of their own.

Focus on your hands by holding an item you’re passionate about—like a product or work tool. The detail of your hands can evoke a sense of care, craftsmanship, or connection with your work.

Environmental Portraits

Take your photos beyond the traditional studio shot. Environmental portraits—where you’re photographed in your natural work environment—offer a sense of place and showcase your personality and the space where you thrive.

Capture yourself working, interacting with clients, or organizing your space. This gives the viewer a more complete picture of your business and your process.

Collaborations and Connections

Showcasing collaboration and connection is key. Whether you’re working with clients, a team, or a business partner, including others in your shoot reflects the collaborative nature of modern entrepreneurship.

If you work closely with others, include them in your session. Candid shots of you brainstorming, discussing ideas, or creating together will show how you work with and value others in your field.

Incorporate Short-Form Video Poses

TikTok, Instagram Reels, and video content means your branding shoot should go beyond still photography. Think about poses that translate well into motion for short-form video content. Whether it’s a simple walking shot, interacting with a product, or giving a mini-talk, motion helps showcase your brand in dynamic ways.

Add movement into your photo session for easy transitions to video. These moments can be used for promotional videos, behind-the-scenes content, or social media posts.

Confident Power Pose (But Make It You)

It’s not about standing like a superhero—it’s about striking a confident stance that feels aligned with your personality. Whether that means standing tall with your arms crossed, laughing mid-stride, or sitting casually with a strong gaze, it’s about owning your space in a way that feels true to you and your brand.

Tip: Think about what confidence looks like for you. It might be playful, relaxed, serious, or sassy. Practice a few poses in the mirror beforehand so you know what feels most natural—because when you feel confident, it shows.

Celebration

What’s a branding session without a little celebration?!! New Launch? Celebration! New service?Celebration! New workshop? Celebration! New class? Celebration! These ladies understood the assignment. Bring on the confetti and bubbles. It’s my favorite part of the whole shoot ad so much fun.