Headshots Vs. Branding Photos: What’s the difference?!

I often get asked for ‘just a few photos’ for a business OR questions about what the best fit styled session would be!

Let’s break down the big differences between a headshot session, a brand mini session, and a FULL brand session! Because all three are very different, and are good for different reasons!

WHAT IS A HEADSHOT SESSION?

Essentially, headshots are typically a very standard portrait that is chest or shoulder up. Great for professionals who need 1 or 2 images for a website or LinkedIn profile. These are the very simple ‘I need a quick photo!’ to use for various reasons and the ‘looking and smiling‘ photo!

What to expect:

  • Typically a 5 minute session

  • Usually you’ll get 1-3 images

  • Standard posing, sitting or standing

  • Waist or chest up photo of your face

  • Usually a white or black backdrop or another solid color, although they can be done on location and be more lifestyle with a couch or chair

  • Headshots ARE an included part of any branding session, but for JUST a headshot, you’ll need to book on one of my mini days OR if you do have a large group of employees, we can arrange a date just for your staff to get headshots at the studio or on location

WHAT IS A BRANDING SESSION?

A branding session, is so much more than just a headshot. You get a custom shoot day, a questionnaire, and an entire guide where we plan out all the details from a timeline, props to use, models (if needed!), what to wear, a shot list, and more! Sessions are longer (the shortest being 1 hour, and the longest usually around 5 hours) and an entire library of images that not only show you in various aspects, but props and other details that go along with your brand! These are great for those who use social media heavily, email marketing, need to update their website, and want not just a few photos of their face, but of where they work, them with clients, their process, and more.

What to expect:

  • Typically a 1-5 hour session

  • A large gallery of images of everything from detailed shots to portraits

  • Content videos are also able to be taken at this time as well

  • Multiple locations (if needed!) outfits, and an entire plan and process is used to create a library of cohesive videos/photos to use in all aspects of your marketing

WHAT IS A BRANDING MINI SESSION?

Now, a branding mini session is kind of a nice mix in between a headshot session and a full branding experience! Get the branding session, but with less images, less time and customization, but at a lower price. Branding minis are offered only on a few special days during the year at my studio, and you’ll get a little taste of what a full experience would be like with me! You can get a few headshots, but also a few other more detailed or fun photos. It’s a great way to try out a branding session, get some updated images if you are on a budget, or get a quick refresh if you are low on time!

What to expect:

  • Typically a 20-30 minute session

  • You’ll typically get anywhere between 10-15 images, but can always add more!

  • Sometimes content videos can be added on

  • Branding minis are offered only on special dates and at the studio, but can be a little more customized than just a headshot session

  • I announce branding minis to my social media and email list, click here to join my email list so you don’t miss the next one OR check out a new offer for 2025 HERE which is The Content Photo Club. A Branding Mini Session membership where you get 4 brand minis in one year, you’ll save money and get updated visuals every quarter for your brand!

Next steps?

Hit the CONTACT tab up in the top right corner to reach out about a custom brand session!

Or join my email list to be notified of upcoming headshot and brand mini days!

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Brand photographer session in akron, ohio