Branding photography sessions are much more comprehensive than just doing headshots. Here, I explain the difference and what you can expect when you book either session.
Headshots
Headshots are professional portrait photos of a person’s face that are tightly cropped from the chest/shoulders up. They are often used for annual reports, about pages on websites, business profiles, social media, and LinkedIn.
The focus is on the individual and the background is usually plain or slightly blurred to keep the emphasis on the person being photographed.
While formal photos on a white background still have a place in business, trends are shifting towards using lifestyle photos instead, especially on platforms like LinkedIn.
Headshots are typically straightforward and formal with soft lighting to present the subject in the best possible way. I use simple poses with the person looking directly into the lens to establish a sense of connection and trust.
How do we make this happen?
Most businesses have areas suitable for environmental portraits. This could be various places inside the office or outdoors. I may ask you to send us a few photos of the office before the shoot so that we can plan ahead.
On the day we do the headshots, we’ll set up lighting in your preferred area, whether we use the office or a plain backdrop. This way you’re able to continue working while we photograph your colleagues. When it’s your turn, you can pop in, enjoy your photo shoot, and get straight back to your desk. Because the lighting has already been set up, each person’s session is quick, usually not more than five to ten minutes.
Doing headshots at your office is the simplest way to get professional photos taken without having to disrupt your employees too much.
Branding Photography
Corporate branding photography, also called environmental lifestyle photos, differs from headshots in that we don’t just take cropped portrait photos; we use various areas in the office to create full business photos. The aim is to visually represent your company’s brand, culture, and values.
It’s ideal for website use, marketing materials, social media, annual reports, public relations, and other corporate communications.
These photos can be of individuals, but also of team interactions, staff in their work environment and the work environment itself. It provides a comprehensive view of the company, portraying both people and the environment they work in.
The style can vary widely depending on your brand’s identity, ranging from formal and professional to more relaxed and creative. We often try to sneak a few candid shots to capture people when they’re not posing and they’re more relaxed.
How do we make this happen?
We’ll have a chat about your needs and expectations. It always helps when a client sends me images that they like to show me what style they have in mind.
On the day of the shoot, I’ll walk through the office to see what areas could work to achieve the look we’re after.
Then we’ll set up lights and start shooting. I always try to be mindful of anything that could ruin the photo and I’ll fix that if possible. This could be something distracting in the background or even something as simple as hair over someone’s eye, or shiny skin.
I’ve lost count of the hours I’ve spent in Photoshop correcting something I should have spotted during the shoot. The longer you do this, the more observant you become 😅
I try to get the person I’m photographing to relax by chatting with them. Most people dislike being photographed and it helps if they know there is no pressure for them to perform. In fact, the more natural they come across, the better.
Move lights, shoot. Move lights again, shoot… It’s time-consuming, but necessary. On-camera flash isn’t sufficient, so setting up professional lighting in every location is the only way to get professional-looking images.
After the shoot, I’ll review images in Lightroom and choose the best options to edit. Some clients may want to choose their favourites, but most clients prefer that I choose the selection.
Then I’ll edit and retouch the images. I prefer a natural looking edit so I’ll have a light hand when it comes to filters and effects.
Actually, throw that in the bin. I don’t believe professional photos should look over-edited, especially not corporate portraits. So, I may correct colour and exposure, and perhaps lightly edit skin if the client requests that. Nothing more, unless the client specifically asks for it.
Once that’s done, I’ll send you a link to the final images. I always upload images in high- and low resolution so that the client has good quality images to use for print, and smaller images to use online.
Do you have any questions about headshots or corporate branding photography? There’s a detailed FAQ and more examples here if you need more info. We’re based in Lonehill, Sandton but we do travel when required.
I’d love to hear from you! Email marinda@heatwaveagency.co.za today to see which style would best work for your business.