You know you need new photos. Maybe your headshot is outdated. Maybe your website feels off. Maybe you’re showing up in a bigger way — leading, speaking, landing dream clients — and your visuals just aren’t keeping up.
But once you start searching, it gets confusing fast. Headshots. Branding sessions. Personal brand photography. What’s the difference? Do you need both? And where should you start?
Let’s clear that up.
What Is a Headshot?
A headshot is a clean, professional photo — typically from the shoulders up — that puts a face to your name. You’ll use it on LinkedIn, your company site, business directories, speaker bios, or anywhere your presence needs to look polished and professional.
A strong headshot should:
- Look like you (on your best day)
- Feel confident, approachable, and current
- Be technically sharp and optimized for web use
But if a headshot is one powerful image, branding photography is the full story.
What Is Branding Photography?
Branding photography goes deeper. It’s a full suite of strategically crafted images that show what you do, how you work, and what makes you different. These aren’t just pretty photos — they’re visual assets designed to support your business goals.
Branding sessions typically include:
- Multiple looks, locations, and backdrops
- Photos of you in action — speaking, working, collaborating, creating
- Images for your website, social media, press features, lead magnets, and more
- Details and lifestyle shots that bring your brand to life
Where a headshot says “Here’s who I am,” branding photos say “Here’s what I do — and why it matters.”
So… Which Do You Need?
A headshot is essential — especially for platforms like LinkedIn or team pages.
But if you’re:
- Running your own business
- Updating your website or brand
- Speaking, coaching, consulting, or creating online content
- Constantly trying to crop a photo from your last vacation…
Then you probably need branding photos, too.
And if you’re not sure? That’s where I come in.
Why Work With Lynette Smith Photography?
Most photographers know how to take a good picture. But not all of them understand branding — or how to connect your images to your business goals.
Here’s what makes this different:
- I bring more than photography to the table
With a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing & Communications and a minor in Graphic Design, I understand how visuals work inside a brand — not just how to create them. I’ve spent over 30 years behind the camera helping professionals and entrepreneurs align their visuals with their message. That strategy-first approach is baked into everything I do.
- We don’t guess — we plan
Before we ever pick up the camera, we talk through your brand, your goals, where your photos will live, and how they need to perform. No cookie-cutter sessions here.
- You’ll feel prepared and confident
Worried about posing or what to wear? You’ll have full prep support, styling guidance, and a calm, professional space to be yourself. Most clients walk in unsure — and walk out proud.
- Your photos will work harder than ever
You’ll receive your images correctly sized, named, and optimized for SEO, web, social, and print. No extra steps. No confusion.
- We’ve got your back — literally
We back up your images online indefinitely. If your files ever get lost or misplaced, just reach out — we’ll send you a fresh download link, no stress. Our goal is to make this process seamless and support your business long after the shoot. Think of us as a partner, not just a vendor.
The Bottom Line
Headshots and branding photos both play a role — but if your visuals don’t match the level you’ve reached, it’s time to update them.
Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, or growing your brand presence, let’s make sure your photos actually reflect who you are and where you’re going.
📍 Serving professionals and teams throughout Central Washington – located in Wenatchee, Washington. Serving Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Cashmere, Peshastin, Leavenworth, Quincy, Ephrata, Moses Lake and beyond. We are available to travel.
📸 Ready for photos that mean business? www.Lynettesmith.com
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