If I checked out your website or gave you a follow on social media, would I be able to tell who you are? Would I have to dig to find out what you look like? Is there a clear, crisp photo of yourself in the profile slot or is it a dark, pixelated picture that looks nothing like you?

In today's digital world, more relationships are shifting online, work is completed remotely, and communicating happens primarily through a screen. We want our online personas to be a true reflection of who we are and what we stand for, which isn't accurately depicted through text or pixelated selfies.

A photograph instantly builds a relationship with others online, and as content changes rapidly, it's important to have a variety of photos to share in print marketing and social media posts- especially if you're a multi-passionate entrepreneur.

But not just any photo will do. In order to capture the full awesomeness of who you are and what you do, it’s essential to work with a professional. Not only do pros know how to make you look good on camera, professional photo shoots captures you, conveying your brand and your style, in a cohesive way. Your phone just can't capture the authentic you the way a professional can. Aside from the quality of images, professionals have experience working with all types of people, understanding just what to do to bring their personalities out, and how to pose for the ultimate power shot.

In my experience, I’ve found that the majority of people- women in particular- are camera shy. I've heard the "I HATE having my picture taken" line more times than I can remember.

And the truth is, I get it! I hate being in front of the camera too!

We can easily see the beauty in others, but we're often challenged to see the beauty in ourselves. And once a camera's in our faces, we lock up or try too hard to look natural! My own experience with this struggle has allowed me to feel compassionate towards the self-conscious, and to hone in on the right angles and poses that will elicit a photo that even the most camera shy feels confident sharing.

After our last Portrait Party, I realized it was time for me to stop hiding behind my camera and snap a few self portraits.

It's easy to hide behind our family, our pets, our work, and even other people's amazing stories (me!) on social media, but we have a story to share too. People want to see you and to hear YOUR story. It's why they follow you in the first place.

How professional portraits will transform your business.

• You’ll build a stronger connection with your potential clients.

• You’re likely to receive more engagement on social media.

• Your brand will come across as more professional and knowledgable.

How to get a professional photo you love.

1. Have an idea of where you plan on using the photos.

Do you need a headshot for a corporate website or will your portraits be used on social media? A headshot is likely to be taken on a white background while branding photos tend to be more laid back and are meant to be reflective of who you are and what you do. Where you plan on using your photos determines where they’ll be taken, whether in studio or on location.

Not only that, the application of your photo determines the composition of it. For example, if you need a photo for the banner on your website, the photographer has to be sure to leave space either to the left or the right side of you for text overlays.

2. Keep your brand in mind.

Your brand and who you are is what sets you apart from everyone else- and it's essential that it shines through. Your brand determines everything from your outfits and props to the style of lighting used in your shoot. Knowing your brand also keeps your photos and posts harmonious, so anyone viewing your online presence is greeted with a cohesive design and understands exactly what you're all about.

Be sure to bring a few outfit changes along with props to your photo shoot. Bonus points if you have poses in mind.

3. Plan your hair and makeup.

Camera equipment has a tendency to pick up on our flaws from zits to wrinkles, and lighting can easily make us look washed out. If you plan on hiring a professional to do your hair and makeup, let them know the occasion is for a photo shoot. If you’d rather do your own primping, go a tad heavier on your makeup.

No matter which option you choose, make sure you still look like you at the end. If you normally wear little makeup, don’t show up to a photo shoot looking like you just came from a club! You want people to be able to identify with the real you.

4. Get in the zone.

Whether it’s a glass of wine or a 15 minute meditation, find something that will help quell your nerves. The more nervous you are, the stiffer you’ll look on camera.

5. Talk with your photographer.

If they feel like a friend, you’ll be more like yourself. Ask get-to-know you questions you genuinely care to know the answer to, and be thoughtful if they ask you something in return. Along with feeling more comfortable, you’ll have a distraction, which will make you appear natural in front of the camera.

Ready to get in front of the camera? Click here to learn how to plan an effective brand photo shoot.

To learn even more about branding and marketing, check out my online Marketing 101 course!

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