3 Reasons to Update Your Branding Photos

Professional photographers know all about lighting and composition and they can create magnificent portraits even in the most simple of studios because of this vast knowledge. If you have used your own selfies on your website, social media, and business cards, it’s time to stop and upgrade to professional portraits.

While the cost of hiring a photographer may be daunting – consider it a business investment – the improvement in your brand image will drastically improve. Besides, aren’t you already complaining about needing more time in your day to complete your to-do list? Why on earth would you want to take on photography responsibilities? As always, when you hire experts to do what they do best, it saves you money in the long run and the job gets done faster. Let your photographer worry about producing your photos while you continue marketing your business to gain more clients.

Here are three other reasons why you need to update your business photos:

1. Professional photos upgrade your business image considerably. While using your own selfies can get your website or LinkedIn profile up quickly, professional photos show that you care about your professional image and that you’re willing to invest in yourself, your business or your career. Having a professional photo shows that you value your reputation, know what you want, and command a commensurate salary. A professional-looking person is one who locks in speaking engagements and is a sought-after panelist at conventions. I must note, however, that professional isn't unidimensional concept. First determine what professional means for you and your industry and then project a business image that reflects both.

2. Do you really look the same today as you do in that 10-year-old photo? Even if you look like a supermodel in your old photo, chances are you look 100% different today. The hair, the makeup, weight gain/loss, glasses or contacts. The list of differences goes on but these differences are nothing to be ashamed of. Time is not evil and we all experience its changes. Embrace who you are, be proud of your business, and hire a professional photographer to create gorgeous images that will not only boost your image in the eyes of your followers but will also give you a boost of self-confidence. A good rule of thumb is to update your photos every 18-24 months.

3. Will people recognize you at conventions, speeches, or simple meetups? Social media platforms and websites generally serve as the first introductions to new contacts, connections, followers and prospective clients. When you meet people in person, do you really want their first response to be, “Wow, you look so different in person”? Even if you don’t consciously intend to deceive people with an older photo, that may enter into people’s minds. You've heard about this happening in the online dating world. If you can't be honest with your photo, you plant seeds of suspicion and doubt in the mind of your potential employer or client. They'll start to wonder why you were deceptive and what else are you hiding. Not the best way to start a business relationship.

In general, if your business images are older than 2 years, it’s time to update those photos, especially headshots that you use on websites, social media channels and any printed marketing materials. Your business image should be consistent across all these platforms and hiring a professional photographer to create that business image is money well invested.

Nervous About Booking a Photoshoot?

If you’re worried about booking a photoshoot and possibly forgetting something important, I can provide a step-by-step guide to booking your photoshoot, finding the perfect location, and planning your wardrobe and accessories. I also have exercises to help you clarify your brand and plan the types of photos you need. These steps will lead to a successful photoshoot. Click here to get your FREE copy of my Branded Photoshoot Planner.

Author's Bio:

Dr. Carol Parker Walsh is a career and business strategist that helps women who've climbed the wrong ladder of success find their life's work. Carol has coached entrepreneurs, executives, leader, professionals, a Grammy Award winner and Paralympic Gold Medalists. With almost 30 years experience as an attorney, management consultant, executive, professor, and dean, Carol runs an award-winning practice and has won national awards for her skills in inspiring business growth and leadership. A two-time Amazon #1 best- selling author, international speaker, member of the Forbes Coaches Council and global thought leader. Carol is a TEDx presenter and appears regularly on ABC affiliate KATU’s AM Northwest Morning Show, as well as been seen in the Huffington Post, Thrive Global, PopSugar, Who WhatWear, Emerge Women Magazine and on CBS, NBC and FOX.