What Does a Root Canal Have to Do with Branding Photos?

More than you’d think.

Last fall, Anita from Rodina Botanicals sat in front of my camera and said, “I don’t know what’s worse… this or a root canal.” I totally got it. For many women I work with, the idea of being photographed feels vulnerable or even terrifying — especially when it comes to personal brand photography, where your images need to make a strong first impression.

But here’s the beautiful part: by the end of her session, Anita wasn’t just smiling for the camera. She was laughing, dancing, creating, and fully owning her space.

Her session turned into one of my favorites — not because everything went perfectly according to plan, but because we had a plan anchored in her story. We created headshots, sure, but also images of her blending herbs, preparing recipes, and showing up as the passionate business owner she truly is. The result? A versatile library of intentional images she can use across her website, social media, and emails — and a shift in the way she sees herself on camera.

This is why we don’t just show up and snap a few photos. We build brand photography sessions that reflect who you are and what your brand actually stands for.

Why “Just a Headshot” Doesn’t Cut It for Your Brand Shoot

I hear this all the time: “I just need a couple headshots.”

Here’s the thing. If you’ve been in business for more than a minute, you know that online marketing has changed dramatically and rapidly in the last few years. We all know that we need to market ourselves online, but it’s possible that the only experience you’ve had with professional photos was a quick headshot or photos of your wedding.

Don’t worry, we’ll get that beautiful, confident headshot of you looking into the camera. But that only tells one part of your story. Your business, your presence, your personality — all of that deserves to be reflected in your visual branding.

That’s why every branding photography session I do starts with a planning meeting. Whether you’ve got a Pinterest board ready or not a clue where to start, we’ll dig into what kind of story you want to tell and how you want to show up online. Without that, we’re not really doing branding photography — we’re just taking updated LinkedIn headshots. And you deserve more.

Let’s break down what this process looks like, step by step.

A Look Inside My Branding Photography Process

1. The Pre-Shoot Planning Call (Non-Negotiable)
This conversation is the heartbeat of your entire session.

We’ll hop on Zoom and talk through your brand — your goals, your audience, what you’re launching, how you connect with clients, and what kind of visuals are missing from your current toolkit. Whether you have a strong design aesthetic or consider yourself visually “meh,” we build a vision that reflects your true style.

Some clients bring tons of ideas. Others have no clue. Either way, this call gives us clarity and confidence moving forward.

2. Mapping Out What You Actually Need
You might think you only need a headshot because that’s what you’ve had in the past, but once we start talking, a bigger picture emerges.

You might also need:

• Lifestyle photos for your About page
• Behind-the-scenes images that show your process or tools
• Seasonal content (a cozy sweater and coffee in autumn, planning at your desk in the New Year)
• Personality-led photos to connect with clients on Instagram
• Visuals for an upcoming launch or public speaking bio

As your branding photographer, I create a shot list that isn’t rigid, but intentional. Think of it like telling the story of your brand in chapters, not just a single snapshot.

3. Gathering Props, Outfits, and Personal Touches
Remember Anita with her herbs and handmade lotions? That’s what I mean by bringing your brand to life. But even if you don’t have a colorful physical product, you can still welcome your audience into your world with the items, colors, and style that make up your story.

We’ll talk about what items reflect your story — tools of your trade, favorite books, coffee mugs, statement jewelry — whatever makes your brand yours. We’ll also think through outfits that align with your brand’s color palette, vibe, and personality.

Hint: You don’t need a full stylist session. Often my clients have everything they need already — they just haven’t thought about how to use it visually.

4. Creating a Space Where You Can Actually Relax
Nerves are normal. That’s why I’ve intentionally designed my home studio in Barrington, just outside Chicago, to feel like a warm, elevated space — not a stiff photo set.

When you walk in, you’ll be greeted by Rumi (my very enthusiastic maltipoo), we’ll hang up your clothes and set down your props, and you’ll be ready to start hair and makeup. One of the reasons I love including professional hair and makeup is not only because it gives you less to worry about before your shoot, but it also gives us an hour or two to just chat before we start shooting. Some sessions are quiet and intimate, others turn into dance parties halfway through.

Either way, this is where we shift from “I hate being in photos” to “Wait… this is FUN?”

5. Shooting for Story, Not Just a Pose
I never want a client to look through their gallery and think, “Well, that looks professional… but it doesn’t feel like me.”

That’s why we focus on:

• Candid but guided moments (I’ll coach you every step of the way)
• Movement and natural expressions
• Mixing posed headshots with lifestyle, editorial, and detail-oriented photos
• Letting unexpected moments and genuine energy shine through

Some of Anita’s favorite photos were ones we hadn’t planned. That’s why planning and flexibility both matter.

Why This Approach Works (and Why It Feels So Dang Good)

Because real visibility isn’t about pretending to be someone else — it’s about owning who you already are.

I work with so many women who have gone through huge transitions. They’re running successful businesses, showing up as leaders, managing homes and families, and still feeling unseen. Branding photography isn’t about vanity. It’s about coming into view — powerfully, intentionally, and with heart.

When you invest the time to plan your session with purpose, you don’t just get better photos. You get tools to confidently carry your brand across every platform — from your website and speaking bios to Instagram posts and newsletters.

You make it easier for your dream clients to see you, trust you, and feel ready to work with you.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re thinking about finally updating your branding photography, or if you’re not sure what kind of images your business actually needs… let’s talk.

The planning session is where the magic starts.

📅 Book your free consult and we’ll make a game plan that feels authentic, fun, and you.

The camera doesn’t need to feel like a spotlight. It can feel like stepping into your own powerful story.