Great personal brand photos are so much more than good-looking headshots. They tell the entire story of you and your brand through images. They capture your personality and help bring your entire personal brand together. They help your clients and customers know who you are, what you can offer, and why they should hire you — all with just a glance.

How can you make sure your personal brand photos tell a powerful story? Here are a few key things you’ll need to do for your personal brand photo shoot:

1: Personal Brand Photos: Know your story
It’s really tricky to tell a story you don’t already know by heart. Before you book your personal brand photoshoot, do your homework. Think about who you are and what you have to give. Identify the traits that make you unique. Then, write it all down. Don’t be afraid to dig deep!

2: Think about your target audience when you consider personal brand photos
Now that you know what you want to say, think about who you want to speak to. Imagine your dream client. You should know him or her intimately — everything from favorite brands, preferred colours, fears, dreams, favorite pizza toppings, etc. Share these details with your photographer so you can plan your photoshoot and your storytelling around them.

3: Discuss with your photographer about personal brand photos
You’re not the only storyteller here. You and your photographer should be on the exact same page every step of the way. Have a consultation with your photographer before the day of the shoot to go over your vision and your goals.

4: Dress the part when you do your personal brand photo shoot
On the day of the photoshoot, wear clothes that communicate your personality & fit your narrative. Of course, you will want to look your best — but that doesn’t mean you have to dress all prim and proper if that’s not your persona!

5: And action!
Get photos of you in action in order to literally tell the story of what you do! Don’t leave it to your clients to just picture it. Consider bringing along props or taking photos in your usual workspace for some powerful visuals.

As long as you follow these top personal brand photoshoot tips, you’ll be so much more than a pretty face in front of that camera — you’ll come across as a smart, capable, friendly professional with a story to tell and so much to give.