A simple guide to help you choose the right type of photo shoot for your business.
If you’ve ever found yourself Googling “Do I need headshots or personal brand photos?” you’re definitely not alone. I get this question all the time — especially from people booking headshots in Manchester for the first time or clients who aren’t sure how to level up their online presence.
So let’s clear it up. Headshots and personal brand photography work beautifully together, but they’re not the same thing. Think of them as siblings: they support each other, but each has its own very different personality and purpose.
Here’s your friendly, no-fuss breakdown so you can choose the business photo shoot that fits you best.
What is a Headshot?
Your headshot is your professional calling card — the first thing people see when they Google you, click your LinkedIn, or hop onto your website.
Headshots are simple portraits focused completely on you — your face, your expression, your personality.
Your headshot can be used for:
- LinkedIn and other social media profile platforms
- Your website ‘about me’ page
- Email signatures
- Press releases
- Speaking engagements
- Your CV
- Zoom profiles (or anything else trying to crop your head into a tiny circle!)
Headshots usually focus on:
- Your head and shoulders
- Natural, confident expressions
- Looking straight to camera
- Uncluttered backgrounds
- Even lighting
- A consistent look across your team (if shooting as a group)
A good headshot says:
“Hi, this is me. I’m professional, friendly and you can trust me.”
When people book headshots in Manchester, this is usually what they’re looking for — a clean, modern, natural portrait that helps them make a great first impression.
And remember: headshots do not have to be boring. They can be full of personality while still looking polished and professional.
What is Personal Brand Photography?
Personal brand photography goes far beyond a headshot. It’s a visual story of your business, capturing not just what you look like — but who you are, what you do, and the energy your brand brings.
Personal brand photography represents:
• What you do
• How you work
• Your personality and brand ethos
• Your aesthetic
• The lifestyle behind your business
• The experience of working with you
It’s photos of you doing your thing — working, creating, laughing, planning, walking through Manchester, sipping coffee, behind-the-scenes moments… all the natural details that make you you.
A personal brand photography session with me includes:
- A planning call
- Outfit and accessory changes
- Multiple locations
- A mix of lifestyle, action, detail and environmental shots
- Consideration of your brand colours and story
- A full bank of imagery for social media and marketing
- And yes — headshots too!
My branding shoots are 1–2 hours long and give you a complete library of marketing-ready images you can use everywhere.
Need more information? Check out my answer to the question what is personal branding photography?
Who is personal branding photography for?
- Entrepreneurs
- Small business owners
- Speakers and podcasters
- Creatives and designers
- Coaches and therapists
- Students and graduates
- Anyone who wants photos with energy, personality and connection
You can read more about this here: Who needs personal branding photos?
How do I choose between a headshot or a branding photo shoot?
Choose Headshots if you want:
• A professional portrait
• A small number of images
• A quick, 30-minute session
• A budget-friendly refresh
• Updated social media and About page images
• A polished, modern first impression
Choose Personal Brand Photography if you want:
• A full set of marketing images
• Photos showing your personality, lifestyle and aesthetic
• Content for social media, blogs and email marketing
• To update your whole website
• Multiple looks, outfits and locations
• Images that tell a story and attract your ideal clients
• Planning and guidance throughout
Both options work beautifully — it just depends on what you need right now in your business.
Want to compare my packages? Check out my prices page.
Do personal brand photo sessions include headshots?
YES! I always capture a range of natural, personality-driven headshots during your branding session.
Every personal brand photography session includes:
• Headshots
• Lifestyle photos
• Action shots
• Detail shots
• Storytelling imagery
• Full-length and environmental portraits
So if you’re torn between the two, a branding session gives you the best of both worlds.
Still unsure which one suits you best? I can help.
When you enquire with me, we’ll chat about your goals, how you show up in your business, and what you need your photos to do for you. I can then make a recommendation on which shoot will suit you best: headshots vs personal brand photography.
Whether you’re after modern headshots in Manchester or a bespoke personality-packed personal brand photography shoot, I’ll guide you through everything — outfits, locations, posing, the lot.
Your photos should feel like you — confident, relaxed, and ready to show up brilliantly for your ideal clients.
Ready to book your business photography session? Drop me a message and let’s plan photos that help your brand shine.
