Why pay for professional photography?

In the AI age that we have found ourselves in, where new images can be created in seconds, and free images can be sourced on sites like Unsplash, when the majority have access to smart phones with excellent cameras, perhaps you’re wondering why bother paying for a professional to do the work for me?

When it comes to running your own business, authenticity is becoming even more important - customers are increasingly looking for brands they can trust. With professional, well-lit, decently composed photos shot with decent kit and by a photographer who knows what they are doing, you can elevate your product or service above your competitors. By paying a photographer who is trained in how to take portrait photos to create a new set of headshots for you, you will be elevating your brand even more.

Bruna, a recent client came to me admitting that it was time that she replaced the image her daughter took of her on her phone. As she was becoming more serious in her business, she wanted a really good photo of herself for her new promotional material.

It can be hard to find an hour or two of your time to get a headshot done, particularly if you’re camera shy, as so many of my clients seem to be. Bruna was no exception. I always spend time getting to know people who come to me for photos, before jumping in. I find that by taking time to understand a client’s business and what drives them, as well as sharing a bit about myself, before jumping in with my camera, helps people feel more at ease. My set up rarely includes lights or huge amounts of tech - I prefer to work with natural light as I actually find a paired back set-up helps people loosen up more quickly rather than a proper studio set up. I am a naturally emphathetic person, who also doesn’t like being in front of the camera, so I use humour and affirmation throughout the shoot, as well as being directive about where to look and what to do with your hands.

I am always very happy to travel to clients’ offices, homes or workspaces - taking photos of people in their natural environments helps with that feeling of authenticity. However, if it’s stressful to consider having a headshot done in your space because of other people or family members being around and any chaos that might ensue from that, I also have a studio in Hawick in the Scottish Borders, which you are very welcome to come to.

Let me know what you think of Bruna’s photos below and do reach out via the contact form below if you’d like to book a headshot or find out any more about the services I provide. I’m very happy to arrange a discovery call with you to fully understand your needs.