Don Evans 1/12/23 Don Evans 1/12/23

Why Hire a Local Photographer for Your company’s Headshots?

Choosing the right photographer is essential if you want to capture corporate headshots that stand out. Style and experience are just two of the main considerations when deciding on a professional though – location is another. Before you choose a headshot photographer based on style and experience alone, here’s why you should consider hiring a local photographer.

Choosing the right photographer is essential if you want to capture corporate headshots that stand out.

Style and experience are just two of the main considerations when deciding on a professional though – location is another.

Before you choose a headshot photographer based on style and experience alone, here’s why you should consider hiring a local photographer.

You will always have someone close by to assist you. You never know when you might need someone to help you out with a new set of headshots or some extra photos for a campaign. By developing a relationship with a local photographer, you have someone who understands your brand and who can get to your offices more easily than someone who lives in another city or state.

It’s easier to stick to your budget. When you hire a local headshot photographer, less travel time is required, which means it’s much easier to find someone who fits in with your budget. It’s also more likely that your photographer can offer you a quantity discount.

They’re more focused on their community. Another perk of working with a local professional is that they’re passionate about their community. This means they will want to help you create images that will benefit your business and your bottom line, which, in turn, benefits the community.

It’s more personal. Overall, working with a local photographer to capture new corporate headshots generally means you can expect a more personal experience. You’ll be working with someone who wants to make a name for themselves in their community and get repeat business, which means they take the time to really get to know you, your staff, and your business.

In the end, you should always pick a headshot photographer with a style you really love, but if you can find that perfect match locally, let that be your first choice.

Don Evans is a professional headshot photographer in Greensboro, NC with over 14 years in the business. While he has a plethora of experience in many different photography styles, his main focus is on branding and professional headshots.

Don Evans 1/8/23 Don Evans 1/8/23

3 Things Everyone Should Know When it Comes to Professional Headshots

As a business professional, you know that having a good headshot is important for your professional branding. But what do you need to know about getting a great headshot?

All Headshot Photography Is Not Equal

First, it's important to understand the different types of headshots that are available. There are three main categories: traditional, environmental, and creative. Traditional headshots are studio shots with a plain background; environmental shots are taken in natural settings with props or surroundings that reflect the lawyer's practice area; and creative shots can be anything from casual candid shots to highly stylized portraits.

Your choice of headshot style should be based on your personal preferences and the image you want to project to potential clients. Some businesses prefer more formal traditional headshots, while others prefer more relaxed environmental or creative shots. Whatever style you choose, it's important to make sure that your headshot conveys professionalism, competence, and trustworthiness, and the personality of your business.

Headshots Should Be Updated Regularly

It's also important to have an updated headshot regularly, especially if you've had any changes in your appearance or new areas of business. Regularly updating your headshot shows potential clients that you're keeping up with the latest trends and that you're invested in your career.

Professional Photos Can Help Attract New Clients

Photos are a key part of any company’s marketing strategy, and they can play a major role in attracting new clients. Good photos can help potential clients get a sense of your business’ personality and values, while also showcasing your expertise. If you're looking to improve your company's photography, it's important to work with a professional photographer who can help you create a photo strategy that meets your needs.

Don Evans 12/30/22 Don Evans 12/30/22

How Professional Headshots Can Help You Grow Your Business

Any business sector nowadays can be a competitive space, which means you need to take full advantage of the tools you have available to you – your website and the images it hosts is one of them.

In most instances, your website is one of the first encounters a potential client will have with your company. Is it going to leave the best first impression? Will it encourage potential customers to get in touch with you?

Working with a professional photographer is one way that you can instantly turn your website into a powerful digital marketing tool for your firm.

With the right photos, not only are you making a stronger first impression, but you’re able to better convey your values and mission as a firm.

Let’s look at some of the ways that you can use professional photography to benefit your business:

Showcase your offices. If you’ve spent time designing eye-catching offices, why not show them off on your website and social media pages? This will also indicate that you take your business and the client experience seriously.

Put faces to the names. Professional headshots make clients feel more comfortable because they know who they’re communicating with and will be meeting with. Plus, with the help of a professional photographer and the right outfit, you can instantly appear more credible before a client even meets you.

Make it more personal. As much as corporation can be serious, your clients are still humans and so are you. When you work with a professional photographer, you can work a few candid shots of your team into the mix. This highlights your personalities and that your company does offer that personal touch. These shots also make for great social media content.

Create a cohesive look and feel. Anytime a potential or existing client encounters your brand online, they should immediately recognize your firm. When your brand’s visual identity is different from one platform to the next, it can affect your credibility.

Improve team morale. Organizing a team photo day is excellent for team morale. It brings everyone together in a fun and engaging way and emphasizes the fact that you’re working towards a unified goal. And when everyone’s working together, it means more potential business for your firm. Be sure to have your photographer update each of your team member’s headshots as well.

Overall, investing in a professional photography session is one of the best things you can do for your business, internally and externally.

Don Evans is a professional photographer in Greensboro, NC with over 14 years in the business. While he has a plethora of experience in many different photography styles, his main focus is on branding and professional headshots.

Don Evans 12/22/22 Don Evans 12/22/22

5 Essential Corporate Headshot Tips for Your Upcoming Session

Regardless of whether you run your own company or you’re part of a bigger corporate structure, you need professional headshots to market yourself and establish credibility among clients. It’s also important to update your headshots regularly, especially if you’ve changed your look.

If you want to make the most of your professional corporate headshot session, here are a few tips you should save:

Company Headshots Need to Be Consistent

If you are hiring a photographer to take headshots of the entire corporate staff, it’s important to have a plan in place. From the background you use to what everyone wears, the headshots should look consistent if you want your firm to appear more credible online.

Consider Your Brand’s Visual Identity

Before you decide on anything else for your headshot session, relook at your brand’s visual identity. Are you still happy with it? Do you plan to rebrand in the near future? If so, you may want to settle on a revised identity before you take your headshots. This way, everything from your outfits to the backdrop you settle on will match.

Choose Your Clothing Carefully

The first thing to consider when choosing a style and outfit for your headshots is that these photos need to last for at least 2 years. This means the hairstyle and clothing you choose should be timeless. Then there are the finer details such as the color of your outfit. Every color is linked to a different mood and emotion, so consider how you want your clients to feel when they see your headshots. For example, blue is known to be a more trustworthy color.

Gather Good Examples Ahead of Time

To help you better prepare and decide what you want your headshots to look like, look at a few examples ahead of time. This will also give you some pose ideas, which you can practice at home prior to your session. You can even speak to your photographer about the best poses to use based on your brand’s identity and mission statement.

It’s Not That Serious

While your headshots do need to be professional, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the headshot photo session and have some fun with it. Your clients want to see your human side after all, which means you are allowed to smile in your photos and show some personality. Your photographer will help you find a good balance.

Keep in mind that your headshot photographer is there to guide you through this process so feel free to ask additional questions prior to your shoot if you have any.

Don Evans 12/18/22 Don Evans 12/18/22

Preparing for Your Headshot Session

Don Evans discusses professional headshot preparation, from what clothing you should wear, to colors and makeup, and skin prep. Professional headshots are not cheap, so be sure you're fully prepared.

Clothing and accessories:

It's always best to have a few choices that range in style and color. You may wish to have a professional look, a semi-professional look (featuring a richly textured sweater or simple blouse that could be worn in a business casual environment), or a laid-back look (casual long sleeved or short sleeved shirt). Try to bring a few options for each- if you want a look with more edge (leather jacket, etc), bring those items so we can discuss implementing them. Keep jewelry and accessories to a classic, elegant minimum.

Makeup:

It’s a good idea to enlist the help of a professional makeup artist in order to look your very best for your headshots. If you want to do it yourself, keep it simple - a coat of mascara, a subtle nude or rose-toned lip, a natural blush and a foundation that offers a natural, healthy-looking finish is ideal. The goal is for the makeup to highlight your best features without looking cakey or unnatural.

Colors:

Choose colors that compliment your skin tone and eye color. Rich jewel tones like burgundy, emerald/forest green and earthy, muted blues, dark blues, and grays usually work across the board. We recommend steering clear of heavy patterns/visual branding (images, logos, wording of any kind). We want to sell YOU, not someone's brand, and we want the attention to be on your face!

Pre-shoot skincare:

If you do not have a skincare regime, right before a photo shoot is not a good time to start, because introducing new products can cause your skin to freak out- not a good look! If all you do for skincare is wash your face, then that's all we suggest doing prior to your session. If you have products you use on a nightly basis, definitely feel free to indulge in them the night before your session.

Get comfortable:

Your comfort is our priority. If you don't feel at ease, that's going to come through in the images, so engage in anything that helps you calm your mind and relax your body. Many clients have found that simply engaging in some deep breathing prior to the session has really helped.

Don Evans is a professional photographer in Greensboro, NC with over 14 years experience as a professional. While he has a plethora of experience in many different photography styles, his main focus is on branding and professional headshots.

visit his website and view his work at: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots

Don Evans 12/11/22 Don Evans 12/11/22

Creating a Successful Personal Brand on Instagram

From product brands and photographers to influencers, Instagram is one of the best places to create some buzz. However, to be successful on Instagram, you need to stand out.

From product brands and photographers to influencers, Instagram is one of the best places to create some buzz. However, to be successful on Instagram, you need to stand out. If you want to use this popular brand to build and grow your personal brand, there are a few basics you’ll need to get right first.

Your Insta Strategy

Before you can start creating content and gaining followers, you should have the following in place:
Objectives. What do you want to achieve by starting this account? By being clear on your goals, you’ll have a better idea of the content you should create.
Audience. Who is your ideal target audience? Spend time getting to know what makes them tick – this will also help your content strategy.

Niche. What is your unique selling proposition? You can’t be everything to everyone, so choosing a niche is key.

Schedule. How often will you be posting? Have a basic schedule in place that you can start building on.

Instagram Tips for Personal Branding Success

Stay Consistent

If you want followers to trust you and start engaging with your brand, you need to be authentic and consistent. From the tone you use in your copy to your branding visuals, make sure that your followers can instantly recognize you and your content.

Use the Right Hashtags

Hashtags are important because they’ll increase the visibility of your content. Get creative with your hashtags, make them specific, and ensure they speak to what your personal brand is all about. You should also spend time doing a bit of research to pick up on trends and find inspiration.

Show Them Who You Are

Instead of using a logo as your profile picture, opt for a professional headshot instead. Every entrepreneur and influencer needs a few professional photos that highlight their brand personality and style. These headshots are ideal as profile photos and can be used as Instagram posts too. Your followers want to know what you look like.

Get Sharing

Get involved in your online community by sharing and liking content that you find interesting or that you know your followers will enjoy. By being more involved and engaged, you start building real connections with your Instagram community. Just don’t go overboard.

Be Detailed

Go all the way with each of your posts. Include high-quality images, the right hashtags, location tags, and clear calls to action. Make each of your posts as detailed and engaging as possible if you want to stand out. It also helps to get your followers involved every now and then by asking for their opinions.

Instagram can be one of the best platforms to give people an inside look at what your personal brand is all about. Keep it interesting, stay consistent, be authentic, and you’ll be instafamous in no time at all.

Don Evans is a professional photographer in Greensboro, NC with over 13 years experience as a professional. While he has a plethora of experience in many different photography styles, his main focus is on branding and professional headshots.

visit his website and view his work at: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots

Don Evans 12/9/22 Don Evans 12/9/22

More Than One Look for Your Headshot

While headshots are intended to present a professional appearance, there is more than one way to make your headshot work. Headshots reflect your personality, your identity, and your brand.

While professional headshots are intended to present a professional appearance, there is more than one way to make your headshot work. Headshots reflect your personality, your identity, and your brand. However, there is more than one use for a headshot. Headshots can be used for your resume, LinkedIn profile, company directory, an audition, or even just for fun.

Depending on how you plan to use your headshots, you will need to select a look that appeals to your audience. For instance, your company directory may require a more professional look than your LinkedIn profile, which allows for a more relaxed feel.

Check out these examples for different headshot styles and their uses:

Casual and friendly style for the business owner who wants to give off an inviting and approachable look.
Fun, not-so-corporate style for your start-up tech company whose target audience is a more youthful crowd.
Professional and qualified style for the applicant who intends to land a CEO position in a law firm or other large company.

The possibilities are endless, so determine how your headshots will be used and select the look you need. No matter what you decide, be sure to let your individual personality shine through each image!

Don Evans 11/25/22 Don Evans 11/25/22

Getting Ready for Your Headshot Session

Before heading to the studio for your professional headshot, think about all of the things that make up your personal brand and what you want others to take away from a glance at your profile page.

Before heading to the studio for your Professional Headshot, think about all of the things that make up your personal brand and what you want others to take away from a glance at your profile page. Jot down some key words and phrases and bring them to your shoot. Think about what exemplifies your personal brand to you. Are you a chef? An educator? A writer? Are there props that could help tell your story? Bring them along!

We can take a couple different shots—in different outfits—so you’ll have a series to choose from. You may want to tailor your profile picture based on the social media platform or other medium that you’re using. Remember to have fun! A relaxed, comfortable subject naturally exudes confidence.

What to Wear

It’s important that your look matches the image you’re trying to convey. What you wear on a daily basis is a great place to start. Solid colors are always a good choice, as are tops with strong collars and necklines. Even though you’ll only be shot from the shoulders up, it’s important you’re pulled together from head to toe—you may want a shot or two that are pulled back a bit. Aim for clothes that complement your skin and eye tones and, overall, steer clear of very bold colors.

Put Your Best Face Forward: Professional Headshots and Your Business

Dubbed “the new handshake,” professional headshots are now the first introduction to you, your business and your personal brand—shouldn’t that intro be the best it can be? With 93% of HR professionals and recruiters tapping into LinkedIn to find quality candidates—plus 2 in 3 on Facebook and more than half utilizing Twitter—that headshot has countless applications in your professional life. Should your profile pic be the family vacation, the fun night out or—worse—the logo or abstract shot? Or should it be a powerful, compelling and confidence-building headshot that makes prospective clients, employers and partners want to click “Connect?”

Don Evans 11/10/22 Don Evans 11/10/22

When was the last time you reviewed your headshots?

When was the last time you reviewed your headshots? Do you think they’re still relevant?

Regardless of the industry you are in, your headshots matter. How people perceive you is directly linked to the images you use to market yourself as a professional.

When was the last time you reviewed your headshots? Do you think they’re still relevant?

Regardless of the industry you are in, your headshots matter. How people perceive you is directly linked to the images you use to market yourself as a professional.

To help you better decide whether it might be time for a headshot update, here are a few things to consider:

Headshots Help Build Relationships. Want to form a stronger connection with customers or potential employers? Show them your face. A great headshot can portray your personality and authenticity more clearly and help build a great connection with your audience. Plus, if your appearance has changed in recent years, there has never been a better time to update your headshots. What people see online should be what they get in person.
It’s Not Just for LinkedIn. When people think headshots, LinkedIn generally jumps to mind first, but this is not the only use. Headshots can be used almost anywhere you want to promote yourself. From your business cards and website, to a flyer for an event you’re speaking at, to every email that you send – they are a worthwhile investment.
You Need a Professional Photographer. Before you decide to take a few selfies, consider the benefits of having professional headshots. Not only do you have a professional photographer to guide you, but the equipment and editing software that’s used makes all the difference to the end result. Let your competition use their iphones for their headshots, and elevate your brand above the pack by using a professional photographer.

Take a closer look at your existing headshots. Are you happy to keep sharing them with the world? Or is it time for an update? In today’s fast moving world, chances are that you are in need for a new headshot.

Don Evans 10/27/22 Don Evans 10/27/22

Why Professional Headshots Can Be Costly (and Why They’re Worth It)

If this is the first time you’re considering professional headshots, you might be shocked by the price tag. Before you decide that booking a session isn’t right for you, here is what you should consider about headshot pricing.

Experience Requires Time and Money

Experienced headshot photographers have spent years honing their skills, which is why they can produce the professional and creative images they do. Headshots aren’t just profile photos either – they need to look professional and tell a story too.

Professional photographers also need the right equipment to assist clients. From cameras and lenses to reflectors and flashes, there is a lot of equipment that comes in handy for these types of sessions. Not only is the initial purchase costly, but there are repairs, maintenance, and insurance costs to account for too.

Commuting is Sometimes Required

Very often, photographers will need to travel to a specific location for a shoot, which also costs money. Most headshot photography costs include travel, which can drive up the total price. Something else that many people forget to consider is the time it takes a photographer to set everything up and answer any questions you might have.

Retouching Takes Time

Impressed with the headshots you’ve seen in a photographer’s portfolio? They didn’t get that way naturally. You may personally see your photographer working during your session, but that is only about 1/3 or 1/4 of the time they will spend working on your images. Some retouching is always required after a photo session, which requires more time and effort than the time spent with you in person. Photographers take this time into consideration when delivering a quote.

If you are serious about your personal brand, headshot sessions are a worthwhile investment. What’s more, you may only need an updated headshot every 2 years. And if your budget is tight, there is always the option of scheduling a mini headshot session – you do end up with fewer photos, but the results are still fantastic and won’t cost as much as a full detailed session.

Don Evans 10/20/22 Don Evans 10/20/22

Preparing for Professional Headshots When You Have Facial Hair

You’ve finally scheduled your headshot session with a professional photographer, but what should you do about your facial hair?

There are no hard and fast rules that state you need to get rid of your facial hair, but it helps to consider both a shaved and unshaved look before your shoot. Your headshots are going to be relevant for one to two years after all.

You’ve finally scheduled your headshot session with a professional photographer, but what should you do about your facial hair?

The Shaved Look

If you choose to shave your facial hair, it’s highly recommended that you go for a professional shave. Yes, you know how to do it, but a professional shave will ensure you don’t miss any spots and that you don’t end up with cuts or ingrown hairs on the day of your headshot session. Remember, your photographer is shooting with high-definition cameras, which pick up on the smallest of details.

Plus, everyone feels more confident and relaxed after a professional shave, exactly what you want on the day of your shoot.

If you do decide to shave on your own, make sure you have the right products, including aftershave to help soothe your skin afterward. You should also aim to shave at least an hour or two before your shoot to ensure that any redness has subsided. Staying hydrated will also help your skin look and feel its best.

The Unshaven Look

If your facial hair is an integral part of your look, schedule a grooming session before your headshot session. Again, it’s always better to schedule a professional grooming session for the best results. A barber has all the right tools available for a smooth finish.

Something you should keep in mind if you have a 5 o’clock shadow that hides or distorts your jawline, you might want to consider a shaved look for more striking photos.

And if you have the time and money, and would prefer to have options, you could always take some photos with facial hair and a few without to decide which look you want to present to the world.

Don Evans 10/13/22 Don Evans 10/13/22

Headshot Tips for Actors Looking for More Auditions

With the help of the right photographer, you can catch the attention of more casting directors and agents. In fact, visuals can often make or break your chances of landing your dream audition, which is why it’s essential to get your headshots right.

Here are some tips that will help:

Stick with a basic backdrop

When it comes to taking professional acting headshots, a basic studio backdrop is a better bet. This way, you minimize any distractions and keep the focus on you. It’s fine to shoot headshots on location, but you should still ensure your background is fairly simple. Generally, a plain white backdrop will serve you well.

Practice your facial expressions

Before you schedule a headshot session, take a look at what other professionals are doing in terms of poses. Once you find a few poses and expressions you like, practice them in a mirror prior to your photo session. Knowing how you want to pose will also make time for more headshots while you’re in studio. And since you want to walk away with a variety of photos, make sure you are going to your session with a variety of poses in mind.

Don’t overthink your outfit

Since headshots focus more on your head and shoulders, you don’t need to overthink your outfit too much. Stick to solid colors and statement pieces such as a blouse or blazer. You should also be wary of any accessories that might take the focus off your face. With that being said, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t plan your outfit at all (you definitely should), but it’s okay to stick with something basic, but professional.

Think twice about the photographer you choose

Picking the right photographer will make a big difference to your results as well as your overall experience. Only go with photographers that offer headshot sessions and preferably, someone who specializes. Don’t forget to review their portfolio to ensure you like their photography style.

With these simple tips in mind, you are on your way to taking better headshots that will benefit your career as an actor.

Don Evans 10/6/22 Don Evans 10/6/22

3 Headshot Photography Myths You Can Discard Today

Whether you’re thinking about taking a professional headshot for the first time or you want to refresh your current photos, you may have noticed there is a lot of different information floating around.

In this blog, we debunk some of the most common headshot myths so that you can book your next session with confidence and peace of mind.

There is No Need to Hire a Professional

Anyone can take a headshot on their smartphone, but there’s a very slim chance it will look professional. If you want to look and feel like a true professional online, it’s best to invest in a professional headshot session with a specialist photographer. Even if you or a family member has a professional camera, equipment doesn’t mean much if you don’t know how to use it or have an eye for headshots.

Headshots Don’t Need Personality

Contrary to what you’ve heard or read, headshots do need to tell a story and showcase your personality. There are thousands of profiles and portfolios out there, so you need to find a way to stand out. In most instances, someone will notice your photo before they start reading about your skills and experience, so make it count.

You’re Not Photogenic

Far too many professionals shy away from scheduling a professional headshot session because they believe they aren’t photogenic. This is never the case – you’ve just been using the wrong photographer. This paired with a little practice in the mirror can lead to eye-catching and professional headshots that will make you stand out in your industry.

My Existing Headshots are Fine

This might be the case if you took them within the last 1 or 2 years. If not, it’s time to update them. Not only do headshot styles change, but you’ve changed too. And your headshots should always be a clear representation of who you are today.

If you have any other concerns about whether a headshot session is right for you, contact me for a free consultation.

Don Evans 9/4/22 Don Evans 9/4/22

5 Signs It’s Time to Update Your Headshots

You already have headshots, so is there really a need to update them? Ideally, your headshots could do with an update every 2 years, especially in certain industries such as film and theatre.

You already have a professional headshot, so is there really a need to update them? Ideally, your headshots could do with an update every 1-2 years, especially in certain industries such as film and theatre.

Still not convinced you need to invest in a new set of headshots? Here are a few signs that you do:

You’ve aged

If you’ve noticed some changes in the mirror, it’s probably a good idea to update your headshots. The reality is that your headshots need to look recent, so aging is the first good reason to consider updating your headshots. This is particularly important if your appearance plays a role in you getting work.

You’ve updated your look

Have you lost a significant amount of weight, changed your hair, or had surgery? This is another sign that it’s time to schedule another headshot session with your photographer. When people meet with you, if they don’t recognize you, it can come off as untrustworthy.

Your current headshots are trendy

If the last time you took headshots you followed a particular trend, whether this was a style of photo or fashion, it’s time to update your images. Unfortunately, trends never last long, which means your headshots quickly become outdated. Rather opt for a timeless look and photo style for the best results.

You’re often contacted about roles you’re uninterested in

This one is specific to any actors reading this. If you frequently get calls about roles that aren’t your type, it’s time to consider whether your headshots are sending the right message.

People often don’t recognize you

This one applies to anyone from any sector. If potential employers, clients, or business partners often tell you how different you look in person, you might want to update your headshots.

So, is it time to give your headshots an upgrade?

visit his website and view his work at: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots

Don Evans 5/21/22 Don Evans 5/21/22

4 Proven Ways to Strengthen Your Personal Brand

Branding is all about making something more desirable by highlighting its uniqueness and value. This basic branding principle is usually associated with products and services but it’s relevant to personal brands too.

So much of what we do to make a product or service stand out amongst competitors and appeal to customers are tactics that can be applied to our own brands.

Here are some key traditional branding principles that you can apply to your personal brand:

Give Them Something to Remember

When it comes to marketing a product, giving it a personality and using eye-catching visuals can help it stand out – the same applies to your personal brand and professional headshot. Look at ways that you can be more distinctive in your market. What is it about your personal brand that you love and that others are always complimenting you on? What are your best skills and what energy and working style do you bring to projects?

Be Visible

Visibility is key in all types of marketing – if customers don’t know about you, they can’t interact with or buy from you. Consumers are inundated with so many choices that you have no choice but to be visible and stand out too. Being visible means you’ll stay top-of-mind in your industry and professional network. Along with having a strong online presence on platforms you know your customers frequent, get out there and speak at events, join networking groups in your area, and engage with your audience.

What’s In It for Them?

If you want customers to sit up and pay attention, tell them what they will gain. Marketers know that focusing on the features of products will only get you so far. Customers want to know how they will benefit by making a purchase. Why should people work with you? Pair what you offer with the value you will bring to the lives of those who partner with you if you want to stand out.

Tell Them Why

What is it that drives you to do what you do? When you’re passionate, authentic, and do meaningful work, you automatically build trust and credibility. Decide what’s important to your dream clients and see where you can build a link between that and the reason why you’re offering what you do. Take it a step further with a more environmental headshot that can show not only who you are, but what you do and what you offer.

A memorable, authentic, and visible personal brand headshot will always stand out amongst the rest. All it takes is finding the right angle, understanding your audience, and being clear about the what and why behind your brand.

visit his website and view his work at: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots

Don Evans 4/18/22 Don Evans 4/18/22

Building a Personal Brand – A 6-Step Guide

A personal brand is essential for both entrepreneurs and freelancers alike but where do you start? If you have access to the internet, it’s possible to start building an audience and growing your brand.

Your brand is what will distinguish you from your competitors and help you create a lasting first impression that will turn into profits.

Your brand is what will distinguish you from your competitors and help you create a lasting first impression that will turn into profits. By having a strong personal brand, you also increase trust and authority, which is what people look for when wanting to do business with someone.

A Basic Guide to Building a Personal Brand from Scratch

Here are some simple steps to follow if this is the year you want to build your personal brand.

Step 1: Create an Authentic Persona

What are you all about? What are your values and what do you want to bring to the world using your passions and skills? These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself when you first start defining your personal brand. Once you’ve put this key information together, you can start creating your brand mission and messaging.

Step 2: Define Your Ideal Client

As much as you may want to appeal to everyone, not everyone will be your ideal client. To create an appealing personal brand, you need to define your ideal client. Knowing exactly who you’re targeting is a part of what will help you stand out. To help you define your target audience, create a client profile that includes demographics, pain points, and desires.

Step 3: Outline Your Offer

Now that you know who you’re targeting and what your brand is all about, you can start creating your offer. Your offer is what’s going to help your customers solve a specific problem or address one of their pain points. Be sure that you can position yourself as a specialist when creating an offer. You don’t want to make vague promises, you want to show clients that you’re capable and can add value to their lives.

Step 4: Create a Personal Website

If you want to build a strong personal brand, you’re going to need a solid online presence. Once a potential customer finds out about you, they’re going to perform an online search, and what they see at that point is important. Your website should have engaging content that speaks to what you offer, customer testimonials, high-quality graphics that include Professional Headshot photos of you and links to your social media profiles and blog.

Step 5: Develop a Content Strategy

To start engaging with your target audience, you’re going to need to keep adding value to their lives, which is why you need a content strategy. Having a content strategy in place ensures you’re being consistent and are continuously positioning yourself as an expert. This is where you can get creative and produce interesting content that keeps new and existing clients coming back for more.

Step 6: Partner with Others

The more you can get your name out there, the better. To increase your visibility, you’re going to need to publish your content on the right platforms and partner with the right people. This means seeking out PR opportunities, writing guest content, and speaking at public events. You can also look at hosting your own events that will help you build a community.

Building your own personal brand is powerful and can take your career as an entrepreneur to a whole new level, provided you have a strategic approach in place

visit his website and view his work at: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots

Don Evans 4/13/22 Don Evans 4/13/22

4 Reasons Not to DIY Your Headshot and Personal Branding Photos

So, you’re in the process of building and improving your personal brand. Since your brand is all about you, you know that headshot photos are an essential piece of the puzzle.

It can be tempting to try and take care of your photography yourself but there are a few downsides to going the DIY route.

So, you’re in the process of building and improving your personal brand. Since your brand is all about you, you know that headshot photos are an essential piece of the puzzle.

It can be tempting to try and take care of your photography yourself but there are a few downsides to going the DIY route.

When you’re building a personal brand, it’s important to view it as an investment, as well as a competition against other companies or individuals. When you build your brand on a strong foundation, you get to reap the rewards later on.

Why a Professional Personal Branding Photographer is a Must

You receive high-quality photos

When you hire a professional photographer to assist you with your personal branding headshot photos, you will have access to high-end equipment that produces quality results. Grainy and blurry photos will not help you create the first impression you’re hoping for. Plus, investing in a professional photographer now, will leave you with professional headshot photos that you can use across all of your marketing material for years to come, both online and off.

Benefit from professional guidance and experience

Professional photographers know how to achieve the best results, which means you get to benefit from this experience. If you’re not used to being in front of the camera, a photographer can provide you with guidance that will ensure your headshot photos perfectly portray what your personal brand is all about.

Your photos are professionally edited

Editing software is not only complicated but it can be pricey too. When you hire a professional photographer, they will expertly edit your photos in subtle ways that will highlight your best features. They can get rid of blemishes and imperfections that might stand out in photos.

The right lighting is everything

Lighting is an essential component of good photography. By hiring a professional, you will have access to a studio that has the perfect lighting for personal branding photos. A photographer will also have additional equipment such as reflectors, which can also completely change the end result.

Photography might sound like a simple and small part of this journey but it’s important, especially if you want to make a good first impression.

visit his website and view his work at: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots

Don Evans 4/4/22 Don Evans 4/4/22

4 Prop Ideas to Consider for Your Personal Branding Headshot Session

Props can be just what you need to bring your personal branding and Headshot session to life. Even the smallest prop can help tell your story. It can also reflect your personal style, which will give people a better idea of what you’re all about.

Pinterest is a great resource if you’re looking for personal branding prop ideas but it can be a little overwhelming too. It’s for this reason that we’ve created this list of the most popular props for personal branding shoots.

Make a Mood Board

If you want to get really clear on your goals, ambitions, and story, create a deconstructed mood board for your shoot. You can use anything you like for this, let your imagination run wild. Make it interesting by using different textures, paints, materials and photos. Naturally, make sure that it looks professional and not like something your child brought home from school – it is going to be in your professional photos after all. You should also ensure that every element you use fully represents your brand.

Consider Your Morning Routine

What do you do to get your day started? Are there any props or rituals that you can incorporate into your personal branding shoot that represent what you’re all about? Perhaps you enjoy journaling with a cup of tea in hand? Others prefer to cuddle their pets or spend time meditating. Whatever you do to get going in the mornings, these are all potential prop and setting options for your headshot session.

Add in Some Food and Drink

Another way to connect with your audience is to incorporate food and drink into a few of your shots. Having something as simple as a cup of coffee in your shot can help your audience connect with you. This might sound a little cliched but there’s no rule that says you need to take these shots in a stereotypical way. Add in other personal objects to ensure the photos relate back to you and don’t look like generic stock photos. For example, adding in a copy of your favorite book or one of your products is the perfect way to make the shot more personal.

Use Your Tools of the Trade

What do you use to get your job done? These can all be used as props too. This can be anything from a laptop and smartphone to scissors, flowers or a microphone – there are really no limitations. If you do offer a service, try and incorporate your tools of the trade with an appropriate setting. For example, if you make wedding cakes, take photos in your kitchen.

Finding a prop for your personal branding & headshot session doesn’t need to be difficult. In fact, you’re surrounded by potential props every day, you simply need to look hard enough and think outside the box.

visit his website and view his work at: https://www.donevansphotography.com/headshots