Most people don’t even know there’s a difference between professional headshots and branding photos. One quick snap for LinkedIn and you’re good to go, right? Not so fast. There’s a big difference between that “stand here and smile” business headshot you’ve been rocking since 2019 (you know the one) and a full-blown branding photo session that tells your story. 

And if you’ve ever wondered which one you really need for your business—or if you need both—you’re in the right place.

Before we dive deeper, let’s set the record straight:

A headshot is your polished, professional “hello” photo—think LinkedIn profile, press bio, or company directory. 

A branding photo, on the other hand, goes deeper. It’s a storytelling session designed to capture you in action: your personality, your process, your vibe. 

One isn’t better than the other—they simply serve different purposes.

I’m Jessi, founder of This Way to Fabulous, where I help bold female business owners show up confidently online with killer branding photos, websites, and brand design that actually works. And joining me today is the fabulous Lisa Kay of Lisa Kay Photography, queen of the modern business headshot. 

(These are some branding photos we took of each other!)

Lisa and I have worked together several times, swapping branding photos of each other and laughing through all the awkward “what do I do with my hands?” moments. Between the two of us, we’ve seen it all—from stiff corporate headshot vibes to brand sessions bursting with personality. So together, we make the perfect duo to talk about these two essential types of photography for your business! 

In this conversation, Lisa and I are chatting about all the differences (and similarities) between headshots and branding photos. Keep reading for more insider photographer insights on when you should choose each style of session, whether your industry or experience guides that decision, and ideas for different ways to use both headshots and branding photos for your marketing and brand design.

Which type of business photo should you get first—headshot or branding photo—and why? 

Lisa:

When you are first starting out with your business, you need a really great headshot. This gives you a professional photo to put on your “About Me” page. You can also use this headshot for your social media profile photo on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. As your business grows, so will your need for great photos for your website and marketing … enter in branding photos.

Jessi:

Honestly? It depends on where you’re at and what you’re doing. If you’re brand new and just need something professional so people trust you’re a real person and not a stock photo, start with a solid headshot. But if you’ve been in business a couple years, or you’re in an industry that thrives on personal connection (like coaches, creatives, or service providers), you’re going to outgrow “just a headshot” real quick. 

Branding photos let people see you in action, not just smiling awkwardly at a camera. 

I’d say your stage of business and industry absolutely matter here—if you’re a financial advisor, a headshot might carry you further. If you’re a lifestyle brand, speaker, or consultant? You’ll want more storytelling shots sooner to build your human connections with your audience.

Can you combine headshots and branding photos in the same session (and with the same photographer)? 

Lisa:

Absolutely! Most branding photographers include headshots in their branding packages. This ensures that all the photos you use throughout your website and marketing have the same cohesive style. 

Do your homework when choosing a photographer. Each one has their own signature style. Make sure their portfolio has images you love and fully discuss what you are looking for with them before booking.

Jessi:

Yes, totally—but here’s the thing: not every photographer is built for that. A good branding photographer should be able to deliver headshots that don’t feel stiff but still professional. Brand photographers are typically more focused on your goals and helping you fill your marketing gaps. 

If you’re looking for versatility, check their portfolio. Do they show range? Can they shift gears from polished LinkedIn vibes to lifestyle storytelling without missing a beat? You want someone who understands lighting, posing, AND the bigger picture of your brand story. Because honestly, you don’t want to end up with “just some pretty pictures.” You want images that work for you.

What are the biggest differences—and surprising similarities—between headshots and branding photos? 

Lisa:

I think the biggest difference is that branding photos are meant to show personality and tell a story about what industry you work in. Many times, the photographer will include props and work in environments where it explains what you do by just looking at the photo.

Jessi: 

Headshots are like your digital handshake: quick, professional, to the point. Branding photos are like inviting someone into your world—they show your personality, your vibe, even your quirks. 

The difference is simple—depth. But here’s the similarity: both communicate professionalism and personality when done right. A headshot can still say “approachable, confident, modern” instead of “corporate passport photo.” And branding photos can showcase your expertise without feeling like a photoshoot for Instagram influencers.

What are the best ways to use headshots and branding photos in your marketing strategy? 

Lisa:

Headshots can be used in a variety of ways: social media profile photo, the “About Me” page of your website, include it in your email signature, any press opportunities, etc. Branding photos work wonderfully on different pages of your website and social media. They will give potential clients a deeper sense of your personality and what it could look like to work with you. 

Jessi:

Headshots are your “need to be everywhere” photo: LinkedIn, speaker bios, press features, business cards. Branding photos are usually more strategic—website banners, about pages, social media storytelling, sales pages, even your email signature. (See my huge list of how to use your branding photos here!)

Think of headshots as the anchor, and branding photos as the spice. Together, they make your marketing feel cohesive and your brand story feel human.

When is it time to “graduate” from just headshots to full branding photos? 

Lisa:

Most of my headshot clients are corporate individuals who need one great image for LinkedIn or their company website. This can be anywhere from a new college graduate to a corporate lawyer or doctor.

(Headshots by Lisa Kay Photography)

My branding clients are usually business owners or self-employed. They usually have their own website and are very active on social media. 

If you do any kind of self-promotion for your line of work and find yourself using the same headshot over and over, it’s probably time for a branding shoot!

Jessi:

Industries that lean traditional (law, finance, academia) can get a ton of mileage out of a polished headshot before they’re ready for a full branding shoot. But if you’re in coaching, wellness, creative services, or anything relationship-driven, you’ll need branding photos way sooner. (Want brand photo inspiration for different industries? I’ve got a blog post on that!) 

And here’s the kicker: when you find yourself reusing that same headshot everywhere, and it no longer feels like it’s “you right now,” that’s the time to graduate into a branding shoot.

How often should you update your headshots or branding photos to stay relevant and evolve with your brand? 

Lisa:

We have all seen that real estate agent who uses a headshot from 1985—let’s not be them! I always tell clients you can usually get away with the same headshot for up to three years, unless you have changed your hair or appearance drastically.

Another reason to get new headshots or branding photos is when your brand has changed or you have outgrown your current images. Most businesses rebrand every few years, and your images should reflect where you are now.

Jessi:

My rule of thumb: take new photos anytime you drastically change your look or your brand evolves. At minimum, every 2–3 years. For branding photos, think even more often—especially if your content strategy is heavy on visuals.

Fresh photos keep you relevant and show your clients you’re still invested in showing up. Stale photos can send the opposite message (like you’re stuck in 2019).

What are some common myths about headshots vs. branding photos? 

Lisa:

A lot of clients do not know the difference between a headshot and a branding photo shoot. Have a conversation with your photographer and they can explain what you need and the differences between the two sessions. I also find that sometimes clients think a headshot is enough. 

A single headshot might look professional, but it doesn’t communicate who you are, what you do, or why someone should connect with you. Branding photos do that—they build trust and relatability, which is essential for entrepreneurs who are the face of their business.

Jessi:

Ohhh, so many. One is that branding photos are only for influencers or “big” businesses. Not true. If you’re a solopreneur, you ARE the brand—why would you not show that? Another myth: “a headshot is enough forever.” Nope – BORING. A headshot is just step one. If you’re only ever using that one smiling square crop, people aren’t getting the whole picture of you and your business.

Do you have any tips for people who hate being on camera or feel unsure how to visually represent their brand? 

Lisa:

This is 90% of all my clients! It’s VERY rare if someone is fully comfortable in front of the camera. I always tell my clients that it’s normal to be super nervous and that I don’t work with models, I work with real people and will be coaching them the entire time.  

When I hired Jessi to take my branding photos I was SO nervous! Being on the other side of the lens is HARD! She was so sweet with her encouragement and telling me exactly how to pose! And the photos….are AH-MAZ-ING! Trust your photographer and you will have a great experience and end up with killer images!

Jessi:

First, you are not alone. Most people hate it. My advice? Don’t go it alone. Work with a photographer who’s not just about the lens but about the experience. Someone who will hype you up, guide your posing, and keep the energy light. And when it comes to brand photos—lean into storytelling. If holding a coffee mug, working on your laptop, or walking your dog feels more natural than “stand here and smile,” do that. 

Your brand bestie (me 🙋‍♀️) will always remind you: it’s less about being “perfect” on camera and more about being authentically you.

Book Your Chicago Branding Photoshoot or Headshot Session Today

Chicago entrepreneurs: it’s probably time for you to finally ditch that outdated headshot you’ve been rocking since you first launched your business! If that’s you, now is the time to book your branding photoshoot with This Way to Fabulous for vibrant, storytelling images—or reach out to Lisa Kay Photography for modern, polished headshots you’ll actually be proud of.