Portraits vs. Headshots: What’s Right for Your Brand?
A headshot vs. a branding portrait: one focused on clean professionalism, the other on personality, presence, and brand story. The perfect visual to help you choose the right type of session.
Your visual presence defines your brand—let's choose the right imagery to tell your story.
If you're updating your professional presence—whether for LinkedIn, a new business launch, or a full brand refresh—you’ve probably asked yourself: Do I need just a headshot, or should I invest in a full portrait session? The answer depends on your goals, and I’m here to help you decide.
As a photographer based in Seattle and serving the surrounding areas, I work with creative professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners to craft images that feel intentional, stylish, and personal. Some need a quick, polished headshot. Others are ready for a full storytelling experience. Let's break it down.
What Is a Headshot?
Headshots are ideal when you need one or two images for something specific—maybe you're refreshing your LinkedIn profile, submitting a speaking engagement bio, or applying for a job. These sessions are shorter, more straightforward, and designed to deliver crisp, professional results without overcomplicating the process.
✔️ Fast and efficient
✔️ Perfect for corporate or industry-specific needs
✔️ Polished, professional feel
✔️ Great for first impressions
Who it's for: Anyone needing a quick refresh or a reliable, no-fuss portrait that still feels elevated.
What Is a Branding Portrait Session (And Is It Right for You?)
If you’re building a brand, launching something new, or ready to elevate how you’re seen online, a portrait session is the way to go. We dive deeper—starting with a planning call to understand who you are, what you’re about, and how you want to show up. From there, we map out locations, wardrobe, and the kinds of photos that will serve you across platforms.
These sessions last longer, allow for multiple looks and locations, and result in a full library of cohesive, lifestyle-driven images that go beyond the standard headshot.
✔️ Designed for creatives, entrepreneurs, and multi-hyphenates
✔️ Editorial and elevated feel
✔️ More direction, variety, and visual storytelling
✔️ Ideal for websites, content creation, social, and PR
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants to feel seen—and have a body of work that grows with their business or brand.
A branding portrait that goes beyond the surface—this session captures identity, mood, and creative spirit in a rich, natural-light studio setting.
Real Talk: Why Many Start with Headshots
Many clients initially ask for a quick headshot but soon discover the deeper value in a full portrait session. Recently, a client who wanted just a couple of headshots walked away with a complete brand library she now uses across her social media, email marketing, and speaking engagements.
Still, a classic headshot is a great first step—and I’ll make sure you walk away with something that feels true to you, no matter the session.
Not Sure Which Session You Need?
Here’s a quick comparison:
Choose a Headshot Session if you:
Need one or two updated images
Have a limited timeframe or budget
Want something clean and professional quickly
Choose a Branding Portrait Session if you:
Are launching or refreshing a brand
Need a range of images for different platforms
Want a session that’s more creative, collaborative, and story-driven
Ready to Find Your Light?
If you're in Seattle or the surrounding area and wondering which session is right for you, let’s talk. I'm here to guide you through the process and make sure the images we create truly represent who you are.
👉 Explore Portrait Sessions or Get In Touch to book your shoot.
