So, you’ve had your professional headshots done - amazing!
You’re using them across your website, LinkedIn, and social media, and they’ve served you well. But as time passes, you might start feeling like they don’t quite reflect where your business is now. Maybe your style has evolved, your brand messaging has shifted, or you simply want more variety in your content. Maybe you’ve had an epic new haircut and the photos of you just aren’t representing you the best way possible.
That’s where a branding refresh comes in. Updating your brand imagery every year or so keeps your visuals fresh, engaging, and reflective of where you’re at right now. Here’s why it’s worth booking another session - and how to mix things up for something new.
Why refreshing your brand photos is a good move.
Your business has evolved – If you’ve changed your branding, added new services, or grown your team, your photos should reflect that. Or - you could use this as an opportunity to capture new products, new services, or seasonal offerings. Things are always changing in business - so document it along the way with fresh snaps.
You need more variety – Having a mix of headshots, behind-the-scenes shots, and lifestyle imagery gives you more content to work with.
Stay current & professional – If your hair has changed, your personal style has shifted, or your business has taken a new direction, your photos should match! Plus - capturing photos in new outfits or in new settings makes things look current and up to date.
Mix it up: how to create fresh branding photos, without the repeats.
1. Change up the location
Did your last shoot take place in the studio? Try an on-location session this time - maybe your workspace, a co-working space, a café, or even outdoors, in nature. A fresh backdrop adds a new dynamic to your brand. Think about the story you want to tell, the angle you want to portray.
2. Update your outfits
Think about what you wore last time and go for something different. If you went formal before, maybe opt for a relaxed, lifestyle approach this time - or vice versa. A statement outfit, layers, or bold accessories can make a big impact. I’d always recommend trying to tie in your brand colours across all your photoshoots (even if it’s just through subtle accessories) - that way, photos from different shoots will still look cohesive with the rest of your brand.
3. Play with props & context
Consider what new elements could be included this time around. Are there tools of your trade you didn’t highlight last time? For a designer, that might be a sketchbook; for a baker, it could be hands-on action shots. Are you a builder that had photos next to your van? This time, you could opt for shots of you onsite, with the rest of your team.
4. Try a different vibe
If your last shoot had a classic, professional feel, why not lean into a more candid, relaxed approach this time? Movement, laughter, and less structured shots can bring a whole new energy. You could showcase the real you, behind the scenes, or in your day-to-day life - it’ll give your followers and potential clients a peek into your personality. And this stuff is GREAT for your social media channels!
5. Get a mix of shots
Instead of just headshots, incorporate:
- Lifestyle images (working, interacting with clients, behind-the-scenes moments)
- Flat lays of your work tools/products
- Environmental portraits that tell more of your business story
When to book a branding refresh
A great rule of thumb is to refresh your brand imagery annually. If you’re using your photos across multiple platforms - social media, website, marketing materials - you’ll benefit from having a fresh batch of images to pull from. Think of it like updating your wardrobe - your brand deserves a refresh, too! If you’re finding yourself repeating photos frequently or things are looking a bit same-same, it’s a good time to get in touch.
So - if you reckon now’s the time - flick me a message!
